Everything About Valentine’s Day and How to Celebrate It in Vietnam

Valentine’s Day, celebrated every year on February 14, is a time to express love and affection through gifts, heartfelt messages, and romantic gestures. While many recognize it as a global tradition, its origins and customs vary across cultures.

For foreigners living in or visiting Vietnam, understanding the history of Valentine’s Day and how it is celebrated locally can enhance their experience and deepen their connection with Vietnamese culture.

The Origins of Valentine’s Day

The story of Valentine’s Day dates back to ancient Rome. One of the most popular legends is about Saint Valentine, a Christian priest who lived during the 3rd century under the rule of Emperor Claudius II. The emperor banned marriages for young men, believing that single soldiers fought better than those with families. Defying the decree, Saint Valentine secretly performed weddings, earning him the emperor’s wrath and eventual execution on February 14.

Over time, the day became associated with love and romance. By the Middle Ages, poets like Geoffrey Chaucer romanticized it, and by the 18th century, exchanging love notes and small gifts became common in Europe. In the 19th century, printed Valentine’s Day cards emerged, solidifying its modern commercial appeal. Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in many countries, each adding its own cultural touch.

How Valentine’s Day is Celebrated in Vietnam

Vietnamese couples embrace Valentine’s Day with enthusiasm, incorporating both Western traditions and local customs. Here are some key aspects of how the holiday is observed in Vietnam:

• Gift-Giving: Popular Valentine’s Day gifts in Vietnam include chocolates, flowers (especially red roses), teddy bears, and personalized gifts. Some couples exchange handwritten love letters, a tradition that holds sentimental value.
• Romantic Dates: Fancy dinners, café outings, or scenic strolls along lakes and parks are common ways for couples to spend the day. Rooftop restaurants and river cruises offer a more luxurious experience.
• Social Media and Public Declarations: Vietnamese youth enjoy expressing their love publicly through social media posts, often sharing couple photos, love messages, and even surprise videos.
• Valentine’s Variations: Vietnam celebrates not only February 14 but also White Day (March 14) and Black Day (April 14), which originate from Japan and South Korea. White Day is when men return the favor with gifts, while Black Day is for singles to gather and celebrate friendship.

How Foreigners Can Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Vietnam

If you are a foreigner in Vietnam, here are some meaningful ways to celebrate:

Experience a Romantic Dinner in a Vietnamese Setting

Vietnam offers a wide range of dining experiences, from fine-dining restaurants to charming street food stalls. Consider enjoying a candlelit dinner at a high-end restaurant in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, or savoring Vietnamese specialties like bò lúc lắc (shaking beef) and bánh xèo (crispy pancakes) at a cozy eatery.

Take a Scenic Getaway

Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes make it an ideal place for a Valentine’s retreat. Some top destinations include:

• Sapa – Experience the misty mountains and romantic views.
• Da Lat – Known as the ‘City of Love,’ Da Lat has cool weather, flower gardens, and picturesque valleys.
• Phu Quoc – A tropical paradise with stunning beaches and luxury resorts.

Try Traditional Vietnamese Love Customs

Vietnamese culture has unique romantic traditions. One of them is writing love wishes on paper lanterns and releasing them into the sky or water. Some cities, like Hoi An, allow visitors to float paper lanterns on the river, creating a magical atmosphere.

Explore Local Valentine’s Day Events

Many shopping malls, cafés, and cultural spaces host Valentine’s Day events, including live music, poetry readings, and couple-themed activities. Keep an eye on event listings in major cities to find something special.

Gift Local Handicrafts and Personalized Surprises

Instead of traditional chocolates and flowers, consider gifting Vietnamese lacquerware, silk scarves, or handmade jewelry. A personalized approach—such as a custom-made áo dài (Vietnamese traditional dress) or a photo album documenting shared experiences—adds a heartfelt touch.

Valentine’s Day in Vietnam is a blend of romance, cultural adaptation, and personal expression. Whether you are new to the country or have been here for years, embracing both global and local traditions will make your celebration more memorable. Whether through a romantic dinner, a scenic getaway, or a simple handwritten note, expressing love is what truly matters.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

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Source: Vietnam Insider