Student Culture February 14, 2011

Three Valentine’s Varieties

This year’s romantic comedy, Just Go With It, came in as number one at the box office this weekend—a clear indicator that Valentine’s Day is upon us. SMU celebrated with the annual presentation of “The Vagina Monologues,” a Valentine’s Day Vendor Fair, and other various events. While many students pass over February 14th as just another day on the calendar, those who do celebrate Valentine’s Day do so in one of three ways.

The traditional Valentine’s celebrations include flowers, cards, chocolates, and romantic gestures. Grocery stores are appropriately flooded with flowers, and restaurants are busy dimming the lights and readying their tables with special menus and impressive wine lists. Couples flock to these restaurants for their romantic Valentine’s dinners, while others stay in for a cozy night at home. For couples, Valentine’s Day can either be a stressful pressure to “get it right” or a simple reminder to enjoy each other’s company.

While those traditionally romantic plans unfold, the enchantments of Valentine’s Day fail to attract most young people. Instead, plenty of Generation Y’ers (particularly singles) see Valentine’s Day as justification for another night of partying hard. With almost every club and bar in town opening its doors for singles mixers and parties, the lavish get-togethers let singles mingle on this day of romance. After all, Valentine’s Day could be a prime opportunity to find love in a big city like Dallas…

For singles who do not enjoy the party scene, there is a third and final way to celebrate Cupid’s holiday. Valentine’s Day is historically a depressing reminder for singles that they still have not found that special someone; though many singles today have learned to take the high road by making a light mockery of the holiday. Groups of friends band together to go out on “fake dates,” indulge in special treats, watch sappy movies, and celebrate the carefree attitude of single life.
Whichever way you have chosen to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year (if at all), I hope you have a wonderful February 14th, and remember to stock up on the post-holiday chocolate deals.