The Día de San Valentín (Valentine’s Day) is also called the Día de la Amistad (Day of Friendship), the Día de los Novios (the Day of the Boyfriend/Girlfriend/Sweethearts), and the Día de los Enamorados (the day of the lovers) in Mexico.   It’s most formal name, however, is El Día del Amor y la Amistad (The Day of Love and Friendship).  It is celebrated each year on February 14th.

In Mexico Valentine’s Day celebrates friendships and amorous unions in a manner similar to how they are celebrated in the United States.  Traditionally on Valentine’s Day men give cards, chocolates, flowers, jewelry and/or dinner and a serenade to their girl friend or wife, as well as to other female friends.

Valentine’s Day is a cultural, not statutory, holiday.  Employees do not receive a day off (with or without pay).  Banks, schools, government offices, and businesses are open as usual.

 
Valentine’s Day Traditions in Mexico
In the 16th century (when the Conquistadors arrived), singing and chanting poetry was a tradition in Aztec Mexico.  Some of this Aztec poetry describing ancient Mexico is still recited today.  In it you can discover the deep rooted beliefs of Mexicans especially about their innate respect for friendship which they considered to be the gift of the Gods.  Therefore in Mexico Valentine’s Day is considered special not only for lovers, romantic partners, and married couples, but also as a day when Mexicans express a genuine, deep rooted respect and appreciation for their friends.

Although Mexico had fertile soil for a holiday celebrating love and friend, Valentine’s Day is first and foremost an imported Anglo-American holiday.  Mexican culture, like other cultures around the globe, has embraced Santa Claus, Valentine’s Day, and other aspects of Anglo-American culture. because they like what they found.

As in other countries around the world, Valentine Day gifts usually include flowers like red roses, chocolates or candies, greeting cards, stuffed cuddly and red hearts.  In Mexico, you will find the skies contain red balloons with phrases of love printed on them, some of which say, Te Amo (I Love You’); Para Mi Amor (For My Love) and Felicidades (Happiness).  On this day, it is also very popular for married couples to celebrate their love by going out for a romantic dinner.  If you plan on dining out in Mexico on Valentine’s Day it is wise to book reservations in advance.

Mexican men have a unique way to show their feelings for the women they love or wish to honor.  On the evening of Valentine’s Day, they stand beneath the window of the lady they want express their love to; accompanied by a trio of musicians composing a Mariachi band.   As in olden times, the man and his band sings romantic songs to win the heart of his lady love.