Columnist Carmiña Navia Velasco questions the commercial promotion of February 14 as St. Valentine's Day in Colombia, highlighting its lack of local roots and contrast with the September Love and Friendship Day tradition.
In her column published on February 19, 2026, in Occidente.co, Carmiña Navia Velasco reflects on how commercial interests drive the adoption of themed days, such as St. Valentine's Day. She notes that the feast of this saint was suppressed by the Catholic Church after Vatican II due to ambiguity in its historical origins, with two figures listed as martyrs. Since the 14th century, the name has evoked romantic love, though the connection is unclear.
Navia Velasco explains that in northern countries, especially the United States, February 14 is celebrated as the lovers' day. In Colombia, however, the tradition is the last Saturday of September, known as the Day of Lovers and Love, later as the Day of Love and Friendship, with decades of roots. She argues that St. Valentine lacks local tradition and only generates unnecessary spending driven by foreign slogans.
She compares this imposition to the introduction of Halloween 70 years ago, which was initially unknown in Colombia, where local legends involved goblins or the patasola, not European witches. Initially promoted by American-influenced schools and then by commerce, Halloween is now an established celebration. She predicts St. Valentine will follow a similar path, with noisy parties, souvenirs, and crowded malls, without celebrants able to explain its origins.
The columnist does not oppose celebrating love but criticizes the manipulation that empties traditions of authenticity, depth, and reflection. She suggests it will not replace the September date but will create two commercial opportunities six months apart.
