Valentine's Day traditions across the globe

Valentine's Day is the most romantic day on the planet.

Couples are treating each other to special meals and expensive gifts. Roses and chocolate are selling out in stores like hot pancakes.

We all know the usual rituals of the day. But there are a few traditions that not many know about that mark February 14 in a sweet and special way.

A report by HuffPost reveals some of these unique traditions from around the world.

1. Denmark

Loved ones and friends give each other pressed white flowers called snowdrops. Men also give their lover a "joking letter" called gaekkebrev. It consists of a funny poem or silly rhyme and do not sign the note. So the woman has to guess who it is from. If she gets it right, she earns an Easter egg.

2. France

In this already romantic country and event called loterie d’amour, or “drawing for love" used to take place.

Groups of men and women would fill up two houses facing each other. They would then take turns calling out names and pairing off. If the men were not satisfied with their pick they leave the woman for someone else. Rejected women would gather at a bonfire to swear insults at the men that wronged them.

3. Wales

People in this part of the world celebrate the saint of lovers Saint Dwynwen. Since the 17th century men would make intricate wooden spoons to show their affection for the women they loved.

4. England

Women place bay leaves on their pillow to attract dreams of their future spouse.

5. South Africa

Women practise an ancient Roman tradition called Lupercalia. They pin the names of their crush on the sleeves of their shirt.