It’s that time of year again; love is in the air, and the price of store bought chocolate, flowers, and cards has skyrocketed. On February 14th, Valentine’s Day will have come once again. This aptly named holiday was first created as a feast day for Saint Valentinus, one of the early Christian Saints. During his life, the Roman Empire had begun persecuting Christians, and Saint Valentinus was one of the many to be executed. The true history behind him is very clouded, as their have been no written accounts of his life, but he was believed to have been ministering to Christians. Before he was executed, he wrote “Your Valentine” as a farewell. Today, many countries recognize Valentine’s Day as a day of love, and there are many different ways people celebrate, if they celebrate at all.

At Padua Academy, the students celebrate this holiday in many varied ways. Some students purchased the Candy Grams that were sold in the cafeteria. These would be sent to the boys over at Sallies. Valentine’s Day is on a Saturday this year though, so most of the students will enjoy Valentine’s Day outside of school. Some students get gifts and go on dates with their significant other. Junior, Brianna VanSickle, is going to celebrate with her boyfriend Kyle. “This year we’re going to Red Robin together.”

Recently, many people have chosen not to celebrate Valentine’s Day,  and some prefer to do something small with family or friends. Take for example, freshmen Kathleen Melia. “For Valentine’s Day this year, I’m going to dinner with my closest friends,” says Kathleen. “But for me, it’s really just a regular day.” Freshmen, Danielle Eckton, has a similar viewpoint. “I never do anything for Valentine’s Day. This year I’m just chilling at home.” Whether you choose to spend Valentine’s Day by yourself, with friends and family, or with a significant other, be sure to enjoy yourself on Saturday February 14th, and have a happy Valentine’s Day.