How Do the Amish Celebrate Valentine’s Day?

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Valentine's Day is upon us again; couples are going out tonight to extravagant dinners and husbands are running out for last-minute gifts... but what about the Amish? How do they celebrate? I assure you they are not buying $100 steaks and dipping kabobs in a chocolate fountain. While some churches discourage celebrating Valentine's Day, most Amish people do celebrate with their loved ones in a simple way. Our local Amish often do things like make trinkets, crafts, and gifts for that special someone, our local bakery even bakes pink cakes for the occasion. Just like most holidays the commercialization of Valentine's Day has not infiltrated the Amish community, it is still celebrated for the intended purpose, showing someone that you care about them. 

While some Amish groups celebrate Valentine's Day, it is not a Holy Day such as Christmas or Good Friday, but a day that is more fun and lighthearted and can kick off the practice of Amish courtship. Courtship in an Amish community is not completely unlike dating in our communities but much more private. Two young people will either be set up by friends and family or meet at a gathering (typically a wedding or funeral) and agree to court. This courtship starts with a young man asking for a young lady's address so he may write her, with her father's permission of course. Thus, the first stage of courting starts with writing letters to each other to get to know the other person. These letters are sent as far as across national borders or as close as just down the road. Depending on the age of the two love birds, this stage can last anywhere from a couple of months to years. After this time of writing letters then the in-person courting begins. A young man will often go see his female companion at her parents' home, eat meals with them, and get to know the family. If the relationship is long distance he will stay for a long while with a family member or friend while the two prospective spouses get to know each other. This time includes going to family activities, church, and outings with chaperones. If this in-person stage goes well, then wedding dates will be set, announcements will be sent out, and plans will be made regarding moving and employment. Once the wedding is announced it will occur within two weeks of the announcement so the planning must go quickly! The wedding will occur at one of the family's homes and will be an all-day event for the whole community. 

*Above) These are some valentines that were brought in for us to copy for the children of our local Swiss Amish Community in Collins, MO.