Dragobete – The Romanian Valentine

Dragobete – The Romanian Valentine & The Herbs of Love in Springtime

As winter’s grasp begins to loosen, the Earth stirs beneath our feet, whispering the promise of renewal. In Romania, this shift is celebrated with Dragobete, a joyful festival of love, nature, and rebirth, much older than the commercial Valentine’s Day. Observed on February 24th, Dragobete marks the day when birds begin to mate, streams swell with melting snow, and the first wildflowers break through the frost—reminding us that love, like spring, is a force of awakening.

The Rituals of Dragobete

Dragobete is not just about romance; it is a day of celebrating love in all its forms—between lovers, friends, families, and even the budding connection between humans and nature. Traditionally, young men and women would venture into the fields and forests, gathering the first flowers of spring as symbols of affection and renewal. Those who met and kissed on this day were said to be bound together for the year ahead, their love growing strong like the rising sap in the trees.

Spring’s energy calls for movement, lightness, and reconnection. And as love blossoms in our hearts, so too does it bloom in the wild herbs that appear at this time of year—plants long associated with passion, vitality, and the stirring of the soul.

The Herbs of Love in Early Spring

🌿 Violets (Viola odorata) – Soft, tender, and fragrant, violets symbolize devotion and hidden emotions. They are known to calm the heart, soothe nerves, and bring a gentle glow to the skin—a perfect ally for opening oneself to love.

🌿 Hawthorn Flowers (Crataegus spp.) – The heart’s greatest herbal protector, hawthorn strengthens both physical and emotional heart function. Used in teas, tinctures, or skincare, it helps foster deep connection, trust, and emotional healing.

🌿 Rosehips (Rosa canina) – The fruit of the wild rose, rosehips carry the essence of love and resilience. Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, they nourish and restore the skin while symbolizing the enduring power of the heart.

🌿 Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – A symbol of courage and passion, thyme was once tucked into love sachets or placed beneath pillows to inspire dreams of one’s beloved