February 14 is the day when you discover the ingenuity of thoughts with Valentine’s Day gifts in Africa. The African love culture is at this point on a two-way, headed toward the western way of appreciating the people we cherish.
Also known as Saint Valentine’s Day, the world celebrates this festival of love and affection. Couples show their affection for one another by giving and receiving presents, making romantic gestures, and spending time together.
And in Africa, Valentine’s Day is fervently and enthusiastically observed. Many couples decide to mark the occasion by treating each other to fancy dinners out, and buying each other heartfelt presents. Others will spend the day together, savouring one another’s presence.
This auspicious day now has a distinctive cultural flavour, reflecting various African nations’ regional traditions and customs. For instance, couples may commemorate their love by participating in cultural dances or exchanging customary gifts in some communities.
In addition, the day presents an opportunity for couples to reaffirm their love for one another. For many, it is a day to celebrate moments spent together in a romantic way.
Valentine’s Day. Red roses are a traditional gift in Africa celebbrating love. Photo/South African
Table of Contents
What Are Traditional Gifts For Valentine’s Day?
Traditional Valentine’s Day gifts in Africa have a unique modern touch to it. However, it is the cultural dictates of both partners that make it feel traditional. Here are the most famous traditional gifts for Valentine’s Day.
Flowers
Red roses, which stand for love and passion, are a traditional and well-liked option for Valentine’s Day.
Chocolates
Chocolate gift boxes make a delightful and traditional Valentine’s Day present. It is a long-standing gift that defies times and era to remain one of the best ever.
Jewellery
Giving someone special on Valentine’s Day a piece of sentimental jewellery, like a necklace or bracelet, is so meaningful.
Dinner
It could be outdoors or indoors but the whole setting is romantically themed. Again, this is an age-old gift that couples and lovers love to bits.
Memento Gifts
Teddy bears and other soft toys are a cute and cuddly way to show someone you care and think about them. They still top the Valentine’s Day gifts in Africa category.
How do Africans Celebrate Valentines Day?
Different communities in Africa celebrate this day in many ways. Different ways to do it all are geared towards appreciating your better half. Some everyday celebrations besides Valentine’s Day gifts in Africa include the following.
Romantic Dinners
Many couples like to spend Valentine’s Day dining out on a special occasion, whether at a fine dining establishment or at home.
Exchange of Gifts
Couples give and receive gifts on Valentine’s Day to show their love and passion for one another. Chocolates, flowers, and jewellery are examples of the most traditional gifts presented.
Cultural Festivities
Several African communities mark February 14 with cultural performances of songs and dances from the past. They are symbolic of love and appreciation, which is what this day is all about.
Couples Getaways
Some couples take a short romantic vacation, like a trip to the beach or a mountain retreat, to get away from the stress of everyday life on this day.
Family Gatherings
Families often get together on Valentine’s Day to celebrate their shared love and affection.
Valentine’s Day. Photo/Capital News
What Does Every Girl Want For Valentine’s Day?
Several studies cite that every girl needs some special treatment and a thoughtfully intimate gift to mark Valentine’s Day gift in Africa. In a list of many things they love and treasure, the following are the bare minimum.
- Chocolate
- Flowers
- Dinner out
- Romantic getaway
- Special treatment such as a spa/massage day
- Jewellery
What Every Man Wants For Valentine’s Day?
Valentine’s Day gift in Africa is a different ball game for men because they need more than a physical present. A survey by YouGov survey shows that a majority of men (20%) prefer intimate moments as Valentine’s gift.
Then, 16% of them would prefer Valentine’s card topped with chocolate, and another 15% would want liquor or wine. Another 11% prefer electronic gadgets.
Conclusion
Love is all there is on Valentine’s Day. It goes beyond religious barriers – all that matter are the acts of love, romance and appreciation.
