Valentine's Day in the U.S. - statistics & facts

Valentine’s Day is celebrated every year on February 14 and is widely considered the most romantic holiday of the year. Although the holiday’s roots are ancient and related to a Christian martyr, Saint Valentine of Rome, in today’s world, it is a celebration of love: both romantic love between partners, and platonic love between friends and family. On this day, children in the United States typically distribute Valentines cards and candy to their classmates and couples plan a romantic date night for the occasion. When asked whether they were planning to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, just over half of adults in the United States said they would, making it one of the more divisive holidays.

Valentine’s Day expenditure

This year, consumers in the United States are expected to spend an estimated total of 24 billion U.S. dollars for Valentine’s Day, which would be an increase compared to the previous year, but a decrease when compared to the projected spending highs of 2020. In 2022, a large portion of the country’s Valentine’s Day sales are set to be attributed to romantic outings and jewelry. Both categories have recovered, after suffering forecasted drops in spending in 2021 as a result of the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. During last year's Valentine's Day, many individuals across North America stayed home, limited interaction with others, and spent less money.

Romantic gifts: The Ugly Truth

When it comes to Valentine's Day gifts, it can be easy to make mistakes. Although thoughtful gifts are often appreciated, not everyone feels the same way and not all gifts were created equal. When asked what they would not like to receive the least for Valentine's Day in 2021, just over a fifth of women in the United States said they would not want to be gifted a teddy bear. Almost the same number of female respondents said they would not be happy to receive a small home appliance. The most unwanted gifts among American men that year included teddy bears, Valentine's Day cards, and underwear.

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