Every February, red hearts flood store aisles and chocolate sales skyrocket. Valentine’s Day has become one of the most talked about holidays of the year, raising the question for students: is Valentine’s Day meaningful, or is it overrated?
For some, Valentine’s Day is still a genuine celebration of love.
Avery Morris (10) says, “I don’t think Valentine’s Day is overrated because it’s a time where couples celebrate each other and can be a time to express if you have a crush on someone which can lead to being girlfriend and boyfriend.”
Beyond romance, some students enjoy the atmosphere the holiday brings.
Morris shares, “I like Valentine’s Day because I like the theme, and I like how people can celebrate who they love.”
From pink decorations to exchanging cards with friends, the holiday can extend beyond couples and serve as a reminder to show love in different forms. However, even students who enjoy Valentine’s Day admit it comes with downsides.
Morris shares, “Valentine’s Day is definitely more of a money grab for companies because there are always cute Valentine’s Day themed items that are marked up to give your valentine.”
From overpriced chocolates to themed gifts, the pressure to buy something can make the holiday feel more commercial than heartfelt. Social media further complicates the experience.
Morris says, “Social media can highlight if you don’t have a valentine, it can also influence you to buy Valentine’s Day items.”
Seeing curated posts of couples can unintentionally make others feel left out or pressured to participate, even if they do not want to.
Nishka Harish (10) says, “In my opinion, Valentine’s Day is overrated because it is celebrated for the wrong reasons and I think the holiday is misinterpreted. Companies use it to make money.”
She recognizes that social media has a large impact on Valentine’s Day too.
Harish says, “I definitely think social media makes Valentine’s Day worse because people become peer pressured into throwing large events and making over the top gestures for their social media profile.”
Instead of meaningful moments, the holiday can become a competition for likes and attention.
Unrealistic expectations can also cause stress in relationships.
Harish says, “Unrealistic expectations for their significant other may cause stress and tension as well.”
When Valentine’s Day does not live up to what students see online, disappointment can follow.
Ultimately, some students would rather skip the holiday altogether.
Harish says, “I would skip Valentine’s Day completely. But it would be nice to celebrate with my friends for a Galentine’s”
Her perspective points to the growing trend of celebrating friendship instead of romance on Valentine’s Day.
So, is Valentine’s Day overrated? For some, it remains a fun and meaningful tradition. For others, it feels commercialized and pressured. Perhaps the answer depends on how it’s celebrated.
Instead of social media and money, Valentine’s Day can be celebrated for genuine connection. Whether you are with a partner, friends or even yourself, everyone can celebrate Valentine’s Day.
