While we have our own Valentine’s Day traditions in America, Valentine’s Day celebrations may look a little different in other countries.

France – According to an article on French Moments created by Pierre, the country of France is home to one of the most romantic cities in the world, Paris. Many French citizens celebrate Valentine’s Day similar to how most Americans celebrate it: with flowers, gift giving, chocolate, and romantic dinners.

The Philippines – According to an article by Bob Martin and Marissa Willman, In the Philippines, Valentine’s Day is a very extravagant celebration and is way more of an “adult oriented” holiday. The local governments in the Philippines host huge mass weddings for people who could otherwise not afford marriage ceremonies. To get into a restaurant in the Philippines for Valentine’s Day, you must plan well in advance.

Italy – According to an article on The Proud Italian website, the celebration of Valentine’s Day in Italy is called “La Festa Degli Innamorati.” Most of the things that Italians do on Valentine’s Day are the same as the United States, but one different tradition is The Locks of Love. The tradition revolves around couples putting padlocks on bridges, railings, and lampposts and then throwing away the key to ensure the couples stay together forever. This tradition became so popular that the Italian government ultimately had to put a ban on it.

Japan – According to Abe, Namiko in “How To Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Japan,” most customs for Valentine’s Day are the same as the United States other than the fact it is much more of a female-oriented day. Women are more commonly the ones who give their significant others gifts and chocolates since some feel that women in Japan are considered too shy to express their love. There are a few differences in customs, such as giving giri-choko, which is chocolate given to male bosses, colleagues, and friends. There is a specific chocolate for men in relationships, and it is called “honmei-choko.”

Ukraine – The country of Ukraine is very similar to the U.S. in how they celebrate Valentine’s Day. Some Ukrainians spend Valentine’s Day in the air because most people travel to Kyiv to attend an event called the Holiday of Lovers. This event has food and entertainment for all who attend. Others head to Lviv, which is branded the most romantic city in all of Ukraine, where people can go and see an opera or music concerts.