Valentine's Day in Peru

Just like in many countries around the globe, on February 14, Peru celebrates Valentine’s Day, the day of love, romance and passion.

But on the so called Día del Amor y la Amistad (Day of Love and Friendship) not only couples show their love and affection but also friends, family members and colleagues in one way or the other celebrate their non-romantic love and exchange gifts.

Over the past years, Valentine’s Day in Peru developed into a really important affair for lovers and friends, but unfortunately got extremely commercialized. Today about 75% to 80% of Peruvians celebrate their love and friendship exchanging gifts worth more or less 20% of an average monthly income in Peru.

While among friends exchanging smaller gifts such as cards, a flower, chocolates, cute little cuddly toys or other small things showing the affection are common, lovers usually expect to be spoiled at least with a romantic dinner (make your reservation early!) and flowers (traditionally no red roses, rather orchids), or depending on the financial situation of the loved one even a nice accessory, jewelry or a romantic weekend getaway.

With all the expectations and promoted obligations in Peru, once in a while it’s necessary to remember that all the small gestures and everyday gifts that come from our hearts show our love for someone much more than anything else. With this in mind, have a Happy Valentine's Day in Peru.