Upcoming Social Events:
UT Carnival
- Join Campus Events + Entertainment and MACC for a Carnival celebration! There will be a samba dance performance, delicious Brazilian food, and a dance battle.
- Tuesday, February 13
- 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- WCP 2.410/2.412, WCP Ballroom
Talk Time
- Practice your English conversation skills with native English speakers!
- Wednesday, February 14
- –
- CBA 4.328
Valentine’s Day Pie Party Social
- Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your friends in the ELC and enjoy some delicious pie.
- Wednesday, February 14
- 12:45 – 1:45 pm
- CBA 3.202, Legacy Events Room
UT Comic-Con
- Join UT Recreation and Longhorn Gaming to explore the world of comic books and the characters within them. Visit the diverse booths ranging from Marvel, DC, Pokémon, Anime, and more. Enjoy activities such as a SMASH Bros Tournament, and participate in a cosplay contest for a chance to win cool prizes.
- Pizza will be provided as supplies last!
- Free with a UT ID and a guest!
- Thursday, February 15
- 3:00 – 6:00 pm
- UNB 3.202, Shirley Bird Perry Ballroom
- View full list of booths and sign up to join the Smash Bros tournament online.
Valentine’s Day in the US
Valentine’s Day has been celebrated for centuries around the world. Each country has developed their own traditions. “Americans celebrate Valentine’s Day each year on February 14th by sending cards or letters, giving gifts such as chocolate or flowers, and having meals in restaurants.” (americanenglish.state.gov)
Gifts:
Greeting Cards:
To Americans, the Valentine’s Day holiday is synonymous with the greeting cards known simply as “valentines!” “School children often exchange Valentine cards and candy with their classmates. Sometimes students make their own Valentine cards in class, which are usually decorated with images of hearts, red roses, or Cupid. A short and sweet message, such as the following well-known rhyme often appears on the card: Roses are red, Violets are blue, Sugar is sweet, And so are you!” (americanenglish.state.gov) Some people buy very fancy and ornate “valentines.” Other people will make their own homemade cards. What matters the most to American’s is how sincere the message of love is inside the card.
Romantic Dinners:
Typically, Americans in relationships will either prepare a special meal at home or “take each other out” to have dinner at a nice restaurant. Valentine’s Day is one of the busiest days of the year for restaurants. Many restaurants have a special menu for couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day. If you plan to have a romantic dinner with your partner at a popular restaurant, you may need to make a reservation in advance. Americans may make a special dinner at home for their romantic partner by preparing their favorite meal or an elaborate meal. Playing nice music and having lots of candles will make it more romantic. Just like with the cards, for most Americans it is the sentiment and sincere expression of love between couples that matters the most.
I’m looking forward to the Valentine’s Day Pie Party Social.
Hi Marina, yes, that social should be “sweet” in more ways than one!
Amazing post! So interesting these activities and I’ll try to attend all of them. Regarding San Valentine it was amazing to know more about this festivity that is so important in the US.
Hi Juan, thank you so much. I am glad you enjoyed it and learned about how we celebrate Valentine’s Day.
I like that Valentine’s Day can be celebrated with friends and classmates too in the US. Furthermore, I like the tradition of celebrating in different ways and gifts. In my country, this holiday is only for couples and it’s usually giving roses and chocolates, and going to dinner. This year I went to Valentine’s Day Pie Party Social and it was very fun to share with classmates and teachers! Thank you for the information!
Thanks for sharing, Sofia. I’m glad you enjoyed the Valentine’s Day social!