In many countries around the world, people in love are gearing up for Valentine's Day, a festival to celebrate romantic love.

In the UK, 14th February is usually celebrated¹ by sending or giving Valentine's cards, and sometimes gifts. The day is celebrated by people already in a committed relationship, but also by people who want to tell someone they have feelings for them.

Traditionally, people may send an anonymous² card or gift if they are holding a torch for someone who doesn't know it, to make a declaration of love. Though it's very flattering to receive an anonymous card, it could be frustrating³ if you have no idea who your secret admirer is, and you are looking for a relationship!

The word 'Valentine' was originally the name of a saint. Now, you can say that you're sending someone 'a Valentine', or sometimes, 'Valentine' can mean the person who is sending or receiving the card. Some people sign a card 'from your Valentine', and some ask the recipient⁴ to 'be my Valentine'.

As well as cards, many other tokens of love are exchanged on Valentine's Day. Flowers are one of the most common gifts to give, with red roses being seen as the most traditionally romantic flowers.

However, in these days of eco-awareness some people are rejecting hot-house flowers such as roses, for seasonal⁵ flowers native to Britain, for example snowdrops, which grow naturally in Britain in February. This is because of the high carbon footprint of imported or hot house flowers, and the chemicals used.

Other gifts which are common include jewellery and chocolates, but some people are even more extravagant⁶, splashing out on a trip abroad or spa pampering⁷ day for their loved one. But some people would insist 'it's the thought that counts', and appreciate a handmade card and gift, such as home-made heart-shaped cookies more than an expensive one.