Every February 14th, couples face the same question: How much should we celebrate Valentine’s Day or if even at all? While some couples embrace the holiday with grand, movie-like gestures, others treat it as just another day on the calendar. With stores overflowing with chocolates, teddy bears, and heart-shaped everything, Valentine’s Day has become a heavily commercialized occasion. But does it still have a genuine meaning. As clubs fundraise through the holiday, might that be more or less an incentive to celebrate the heart–filled holiday?
“I believe Valentine’s Day is only enjoyable for those who are already in relationships,” senior Hailey Daubert said. “Valentine’s Day is pointless because if you love someone, you should tell them that every day as it is. The holiday only acts as a reminder to those who don’t have anyone to share it with.”
While some view Valentine’s Day as a day of exclusion, others see it as a time to appreciate all forms of love, not just romantic relationships. For some, the holiday is an opportunity to celebrate the people who matter most, whether that be family, friends, or significant others.
“I believe that Valentine’s Day is something everyone should cherish with or without a partner,” senior Marcos Guerrero said. “Celebrating and sharing the memories made with loved ones is a beautiful thing. Love truly is a blessing and deserves the celebration.”
Many students find ways to accept Valentine’s Day in ways that feel personal and meaningful to them. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a heartfelt gift, or a fun gathering with friends, the holiday can take on different meanings depending on the person.
“For Valentine’s Day I usually hangout with the people I love the most,” senior McKenzie Leal said. “This year I am going to have a picnic and watch movies as a little ‘galentines’ day event.”
Gifts can be hard to choose when trying to show how much you truly care about someone. Some may say their gifts are too much or too little. When asked what kinds of gifts people got their loved ones, many went to long-lasting material goods.
“I’d probably go for clothing or something,” sophomore William Hoff said. “With food, you consume it and forget it, but with clothing, you can wear it, keep it, and look back at it. It’s just more useful.”
Most love the simplicity of a candy gram gift. Any complications that may normally arise are thrown out the window when all you have to do is pay and write a lovely note to those you care about.
“They have a very good system with the candy grams,” sophomore Jaehyeok Park said. “I’m paying money to anonymously send something to someone or put your name on it at least.”
Ultimately, Valentine’s Day is what you make of it. Whether it’s seen as a day for couples, a reminder to cherish all loved ones, or just another date on the calendar, the holiday continues to spark debate. While some embrace romance and tradition, others find joy in celebrating friendships or simply ignoring the day altogether. No matter how one chooses to spend February 14th, the presence of love, romantic or not, is what truly defines the day.
