Valentines Day Facts

• Long before St. Valentine lived, February 14th had strong links with fertility. The date traditionally is known for when birds choose their mates.
• Roman festival of Lupercalia used to be celebrated on February 15th where young men held a lottery to conclude which girl would be theirs.
• In Medieval times, girls ate bizarre foods on St Valentine's Day to make them dream of their future spouse.
• In the Middle Ages, there was a belief that the first unmarried person of the opposite sex you met on the morning of St. Valentine's Day would become your spouse.
• The first Valentine gift was sent by Duke of Orleans to his wife, after he was captured in 1415.
• 73% of Valentine Day flowers are bought by men, whereas women buy only 23% of Valentine flowers.
• Around 3% of pet owners prefer to give Valentine gifts to their pets, as they are more grateful than humans!