Valentismas

Valentismas is celebrated annually on February 10. This holiday acts as a bridge between Christmas and Valentine’s Day, combining elements of both to celebrate love for family and friends in a relaxed environment. Unlike the high-pressure expectations often associated with romantic holidays, this day focuses on appreciation and connection without the need for extravagant or expensive gestures. It provides a specific time for people to gather and enjoy the company of their closest companions during the late winter weeks when social engagements typically decrease.

History of Valentismas

The holiday was established in 2019 by Erin Herrmann in memory of her father, Duane Herrmann. Due to his health challenges, the family was forced to postpone their Christmas celebrations several times. Following his passing in early 2019, the family sought a way to process their grief and find something to look forward to while their holiday gifts remained wrapped. They decided to create a new tradition that blended the festive spirit of the winter holidays with the affectionate themes of February, leading to the creation of the portmanteau “Valentismas.”

Since its inception, the observance has transitioned from a private family ritual to a recognized date for others facing similar challenges. It was officially added to national holiday archives as a day to celebrate the “love of family” and to provide emotional support during the difficult, often gloomy mid-winter months. The creator intended for the day to be particularly helpful for those in regions lacking sunshine or for anyone needing a stress-free opportunity to see friends and relatives outside of the busy December schedule.

Why is Valentismas important?

This day offers a necessary mental health break during the “winter blues” period of early February. By providing a structured reason to socialize, it helps combat the isolation that can occur after the excitement of the New Year has faded. The holiday prioritizes “all-encompassing love,” meaning it is inclusive of singles, children, and elderly relatives who might feel excluded from the strictly romantic focus of Valentine’s Day. It reinforces the idea that family bonds and platonic friendships are just as deserving of celebration as romantic partnerships.

Additionally, Valentismas serves as a practical solution for families who were unable to meet during the traditional December holidays due to work, illness, or travel. It functions as a “second chance” to exchange gifts and share a meal without the commercial rush of the peak holiday season. Because it falls on a fixed date, it encourages people to slow down and create meaningful memories during a month that is otherwise often overlooked or viewed as a transition period between seasons.

• The day encourages emotional healing and the celebration of life after loss.
• It removes the commercial pressure and high costs of romantic-only holidays.
• Families can use the day to finally exchange gifts delayed from December.
• It provides social stimulation during the coldest and darkest weeks of winter.
• The inclusive nature ensures that everyone has a dedicated day to feel loved.

How to Celebrate Valentismas

Celebrating this day typically involves a blend of seasonal aesthetics, such as a “Valentine’s Christmas tree” decorated with red hearts and white snowflakes. Families often gather for a casual meal where the main goal is simply to spend time together without a rigid agenda. Many participants use the day to finally unwrap gifts that were saved for a special occasion or to exchange small tokens of appreciation like handwritten notes. Decorating with a mix of winter and romantic themes, such as pink tinsel or heart-shaped wreaths, helps set a cheerful tone.

Another way to observe the day is through community service or visiting those who may be lonely. Many observers choose to bring flowers or chocolates to hospitals and hospices, extending the holiday’s theme of love to strangers in need of comfort. Activities can be as simple as hosting a board game night or as elaborate as crafting unique decorations that symbolize the family’s specific history and bonds. The emphasis remains on flexibility and the personal joy derived from the people you hold dear.

• Decorate your home with a mix of leftover holiday lights and red hearts.
• Host a potluck dinner where everyone brings their favorite comfort food.
• Exchange small, thoughtful gifts with friends who live nearby.
• Visit a local nursing home or hospital to share some festive cheer.
• Take down winter decorations together while reflecting on recent family memories.

Valentismas Dates Table