Valentine’s Day in the ’70s was full of quirky, heartfelt traditions that were just as charming as the times themselves. From unique ways of expressing love to little gestures that made the day feel extra special, there was a nostalgic innocence about it all. If you were around in the ’70s, you likely remember the love notes passed in class, the sweet candy hearts, and all those other small acts of affection that made the day feel magical. So, why not take a trip down memory lane and rediscover these vintage traditions? Here’s a look at 12 ’70s Valentine’s Day traditions that definitely need to make a comeback. Trust us—there’s something about these old-school practices that could bring a fresh, nostalgic touch to today’s celebrations.
1. Handmade Valentine’s Cards
Back in the ’70s, store-bought cards were definitely a thing, but nothing compared to the charm of a handmade Valentine. Whether you spent hours cutting out hearts from construction paper or writing heartfelt notes with glitter pens, crafting your own card felt personal and meaningful. What made them extra special was the time and effort poured into making each one unique. People exchanged these tokens of affection with a pride that store-bought versions just couldn’t replicate. Imagine the joy of receiving something so personalized and thoughtful today. In our fast-paced world, we’ve lost that sense of creativity and connection, but a handmade card could bring back that personal touch. It’s something simple but deeply meaningful that would add a whole new layer to Valentine’s Day celebrations in this modern age.
2. Love Letters
Before texting and emails, the only way to truly express your feelings on Valentine’s Day was through a handwritten love letter. There’s something timeless about putting pen to paper, taking the time to reflect on your emotions, and sharing your heart with someone special. In the ’70s, love letters were treasured keepsakes that could be reread on any ordinary day to relive the emotions felt in the moment. A love letter holds so much more weight than a quick digital message. It has depth, sincerity, and shows a level of thoughtfulness that’s missing today. Reintroducing this old-school form of communication would add a romantic, personal touch that’s often lacking in our fast-paced world.
3. Valentine’s Day Parties at School
Remember when your classroom would turn into a mini celebration on Valentine’s Day? The joy of exchanging cards with classmates and trading candy hearts was a cherished tradition for many kids in the ’70s. Teachers would set up little boxes or bags for each student to receive cards and treats, and there was always that one classmate who had the most creative designs. The excitement and anticipation of the day created an atmosphere of inclusiveness and warmth that is harder to come by in today’s classroom. Recreating these Valentine’s Day parties in schools would bring back that sense of community, friendship, and simple joy that we could all use a little more of.
4. Candy Hearts with Messages
No Valentine’s Day was complete without a handful of those little candy hearts, each with a sweet message written on them. Whether they said “Be Mine,” “Kiss Me,” or “Love You,” these pastel-colored treats were a staple of the ’70s. The best part? You could exchange them with friends, family, or your sweetheart, making the day feel full of love and kindness. Today’s Valentine’s candy aisle seems to lack that same charm, with fewer options for personalized and quirky messages. Reviving these candy hearts would be a fun, nostalgic way to brighten up the holiday and remind us of simpler, sweeter times.
5. Valentine’s Day Carnations
In the ’70s, giving someone a carnation on Valentine’s Day was a big deal. Whether it was a single bloom for your crush or a full bouquet for a spouse, carnations were the flower of choice. They were easy to find, affordable, and had a certain elegance that made them feel special. There’s something about the simplicity of a flower—no fancy bouquet, just a single bloom that says “I’m thinking of you.” Today, we often overcomplicate Valentine’s Day gifts, but a single, thoughtfully chosen flower could remind us of the beauty in simple gestures. Bringing back this tradition could reignite that sweet, pure feeling that Valentine’s Day was once all about.
6. Couples Dancing to Love Songs
Valentine’s Day in the ’70s wouldn’t have been the same without a romantic night of dancing to classic love songs. Whether you were at a school dance, a party, or just a quiet evening at home, couples swayed to the smooth sounds of the Bee Gees, Carpenters, or Barry White. These slow dances had a way of bringing people closer together, as they shared moments of intimacy without a single word spoken. In today’s world, people may be too busy with phones or social media to share that kind of in-person connection. A night of dancing, free from distractions, would be a great way to bring back the romance and feeling of closeness that the ’70s did so well.
7. Red and Pink Everything
From clothing to decorations, the ’70s saw a world awash in red, pink, and white on Valentine’s Day. The stores were filled with heart-shaped everything—balloons, wrapping paper, even those velvet heart-shaped boxes of chocolates. It was a day where everything turned into a celebration of love, and it felt like the world was painted in romantic hues. Today, Valentine’s Day has become more commercialized, and the colors don’t seem to hold the same magic they once did. Reintroducing the fun of red and pink everywhere could bring back that whimsical, all-encompassing feeling of love that made Valentine’s Day so exciting back then.
8. Valentine’s Day Mystery Packages
One fun tradition that some people enjoyed in the ’70s was the “mystery package.” These were little gift bags or boxes filled with a mix of small items—candy, trinkets, even a little note. What made them special was the surprise element. You never knew exactly what you were going to get, but it was always something fun and thoughtful. It’s a tradition that’s sadly been lost in today’s fast-paced gift-giving culture. A return to these sweet, surprise-filled packages could make Valentine’s Day feel more personal and thoughtful again, reminding us that it’s not always about the price of the gift but the thought behind it.
9. Handmade Heart-Shaped Crafts
If you remember making heart-shaped crafts for your loved ones back in the ’70s, you know how special it felt to create something with your own hands. Whether it was a lacy heart made from paper doilies or a macramé heart ornament, these gifts weren’t just decorations—they were symbols of love and effort. Crafting something for a loved one is a gesture that shows you’ve thought about them in a way that a store-bought gift never could. Reviving this DIY tradition would bring a personal touch back to Valentine’s Day, reminding us of the power of handmade gifts and the memories they create.
10. Valentine’s Day Window Displays
One of the most exciting things about Valentine’s Day in the ’70s was walking down the street and seeing all the store windows decorated with hearts, balloons, and other love-themed items. Retailers took pride in creating these festive displays, and it was a fun way for people to get into the spirit of the holiday. Today, many stores don’t put as much effort into window displays, but imagine if they did! Reviving these grand, heartfelt displays could bring back the communal sense of excitement and celebration that was once such a big part of the holiday.
11. Valentine’s Day School Fundraisers
Another popular tradition in the ’70s was the Valentine’s Day fundraiser at school. Whether it was selling carnations, homemade crafts, or even little candy bags, it was a way for kids to feel involved and contribute to their school community. These fundraisers taught us the importance of giving back, and they created an atmosphere of camaraderie and care. Reintroducing these simple school fundraisers would help children today understand the value of love, charity, and working together toward a common goal.
12. Pink Champagne and Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
For couples looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day in the ’70s, pink champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries were a go-to treat. These elegant, yet simple, indulgences set the stage for a romantic evening and made the day feel a little extra special. The combination of sweetness and luxury was perfect for setting the mood, and it’s a tradition that’s still a hit today—though not nearly as common. Bring back this timeless treat, and it’ll undoubtedly set the tone for a romantic and memorable Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day traditions from the ’70s have a certain charm that’s missing from today’s fast-paced, digital world. These personal, hands-on gestures and fun, simple traditions bring back a sense of warmth and connection that we could all use more of. Whether it’s a handmade card or a love letter, these practices are a reminder of the deeper meaning behind the holiday—celebrating love, connection, and affection in all its forms. So, why not revive a few of these vintage Valentine’s Day traditions this year? You’ll not only feel nostalgic, but you’ll also be creating meaningful memories that could last a lifetime.
