As Valentine’s Day approaches, many eagerly anticipate the “day of love,” while others argue it has become a mere commercialized occasion. In the lead-up to February 14, WTOP took to the National Mall to ask both tourists and local residents about the true meaning of the holiday.
One such individual, Mike, a visitor from Geneva, Switzerland, expressed his disinterest in the holiday, claiming that Geneva’s romantic atmosphere doesn’t require the commercial trappings of Valentine’s Day. “We don’t need this commercial situation coming from the U.S.,” Mike said, walking near the Washington Monument. “You’re focusing too much on one day.”
Though Mike doesn’t observe the holiday, he admitted that he does purchase flowers a few days later, taking advantage of the post-Valentine’s price drop.
While flowers, candy, and cards remain the classic gifts for Valentine’s Day, WTOP also asked passersby for their dream Valentine’s Day presents, seeking to uncover whether the holiday could inspire more unique and personal expressions of affection beyond the traditional.
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