Couple celebrating Valentine's Day on City Cruises yacht
California / City Cruises / Greater Los Angeles Area / Special Events & Holidays / United States / Valentines Day

Sun-Kissed Cupid: Celebrate Valentine’s Day 2025 in Southern California

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and create unforgettable memories with that special someone. What better way to do that than with a unique celebration on the scenic Southern California coast? It just so happens that the Los Angeles area is one of the best places in the world to celebrate this romantic holiday. With its warm, sunny weather, stunning beaches, scenic mountains, and charming towns, SoCal offers endless ways to make the holiday of love unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan of fine dining, thrilling adventures, or low-key beach strolls, there’s something for every couple. Here’s a guide to some of the best ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Southern California, including a romantic dining cruise with City Cruises.

The History of Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day, celebrated every year on February 14th, has roots that trace back to ancient Rome. No wonder it’s so “Rome-antic!” It is thought to have originated from the Roman festival of Lupercalia, a celebration held in mid-February to welcome spring and encourage fertility. The day later became associated with Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr who, according to legend, defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage for young men in order to keep them focused on military service, thus leading to his demise.

The romantic traditions of Valentine’s Day as we know it began to take shape in the 14th and 15th centuries, especially in England and France, where love poetry and exchanging tokens became popular. Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated around the world as a day to express love and affection, evolving from its historical and religious origins into a secular celebration of romance and friendship.