This blog was prepared by YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialists Dora Rabinovich.

February 14th is perceived to be the day for couples or people in relationships to remind the other one that how much they love them. They would go for a date, exchange gifts, chocolates or flowers.  It is not a public holiday, and some newcomers may not celebrate it back in your own country.

Yes, Valentine’s Day is about love, but it doesn’t have to be romantic love. Many Canadians choose to spend this day with their family or choose to express their gratitude and kindness to their friends on this day.

Valentine’s Day can also be an occasion to celebrate the appreciation of people who are personally important to you. We used to mark this day at the workplace with card exchange before the pandemic. Some of us would find chocolates on our desks. Kids brought cards and candies to school to distribute to their classmates and teachers.

This year’s Valentine’s day happens to fall into the Family Day long weekend. I am going to “hang out” with my sister, who is also my best friend. I want to put a smile on her face by dressing up and dancing in front of her. But this is going to happen only through FaceTime because of the pandemic.

So, what’s your plan for Valentine’s Day this year?