Valentine's Day went from the celebration of a Catholic saint, to a worldwide day of romantic love, with couples exchanging gifts, going out for dinner, or just exchanging small tokens of their cariño. This is how we celebrate Valentine's Day in the Dominican Republic.
By - Reviewed: . Original: Jan 27, 2026
What is Día de San Valentín?
Día de San Valentín, or Saint Valentine's Day is how Valentine's day is known in the Dominican Republic, and also known as Día del Amor y la Amistad (Love and Friendship Day).
Celebrating Valentine's Day in the Dominican Rep.
Valentine's day is celebrated in the Dominican Republic, and we have adopted many of the consumerist practices seen everywhere, but we have also maintain some of the essence of the celebration of this ancient fest.
Couples
Not only are most couple expected to remember it and celebrate it to a certain level, in many relationship is the only day --aside from birthdays-- where adults receive gifts (giving adults gifts is not typically part of our Christmas traditions).
The expense in gifts and expectations for the celebration varies from couple to couple, going from the elaborate, from elaborate to a simple morning kiss and a "Feliz Día de San Valentín".
Friends
Amongst friends, more typically amongst women, it is customary to exchange greetings on this day, and close friends may exchange "un detallito" or "cariñito", a small, inexpensive gifts. It's also not rare for girl friends to have a get-together on that day.
School
Kids may make little no-cost gifts in Arts and Crafts for their friends, and maybe add a chocolate bar for their closest friend.
Food for San Valentín
While there are no particular foods related to Valentine's Day in our country, I these are some great ideas to celebrate at home, or treat your friends.
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