The History

Every February candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint and why do we celebrate this holiday? The history of Valentine's Day and its patron saint is shrouded in mystery. What we do know is that February has long been a month of romance.

St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.
» Read more on the History Channel Web site

Romantic Events
 "If music be the food of love, play on" - William Shakespeare

• Annual Rosendale Love Fest
  Feb. 11, noon-10 p.m.
  
  Festival Schedule of Events
  Activities include valentine-making parties and games for the kids, love stories and poems performed by professional actors, love-themed art and music, and great gifts for your special someone from local merchants and special artisans.
  For more information call (845) 658-7569.

• Isn't It Romantic
  Feb. 14, 7-10 p.m.
  
  Skytop Steak House, Kingston, NY
  Mark Raisch - Jazz, swing, vocals, American Standards
  Take the extra step to truly express your feelings of love and passion and let Mark Raisch and his combo help set the mood for a romantic Aphrodisiac Wine Dinner at Skytop Steak House.
  For more information call (845) 340-4277.

• A Valentine Romance
  Feb. 14, 8 p.m.
  
  School of Fine and Performing Arts, McKenna Theatre at SUNY New Paltz
  Oboist Joel Evans, violist Valentina Charlap-Evans and pianist Ruthanne Schempf present an evening of romantic music including works of Vivaldi, Schumann and Klughardt.
  For more information call (845) 257-3872.

Content and graphics by Lyudmila Christie
Photography by Debra Lahm