Historians trace Valentines day to an ancient Roman festival called Lupercalia February 15. The pope wanted to outlaw this festival and so Pope Gelasius declared February 14 Valentines day around 498 Ad.

The stories behind what the actual celebration are varied. There are definitely three St. Valentines who are martyrs in the Catholic Church. One Story is of a Catholic priest in Rome. Emperor Claudius II decided to outlaw marriage for young men so they could become his soldiers. Valentine broke the law and married young lovers in secret. When he was found out he was put to death. Another story of St. Valentine is that he was a good friend to children. He was imprisoned for not worshipping the gods decreed by the Roman Emperor. While he was in prison the children brought him loving notes. He was supposedly executed February 14, 270 AD.

Some fun facts.

In France and England in the Middle Ages it was believed that mid February was beginning of birds mating season.

The oldest known Valentine still in existence today is a poem written by Charles Duke of Orleans to his wife while he was imprisoned in the tower of London. It was written in 1415.

Some believe the word Valentine came from a Norman word Galatine, which means 'gallant' or 'lover'.

Valentines day is celebrated in the United States, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, France and Australia.

85% of Valentines are purchased by women.

An estimated one billion Valentines are sent per year as compared to the 2.6 billion at Christmas.