Countdown to Valentine's Day — February 14.
Valentine's Day on February 14 has a way of arriving faster than expected, particularly in the chaos of the new year. Restaurants, florists, and gift retailers all report their busiest periods of the year on and around February 14 — which means if you want a table at a popular restaurant, booking a week or two in advance is standard.
This counter gives you a clear view of how much time you actually have, so you're not scrambling at the last minute.
Valentine's Day is not a public holiday in Australia and carries no official status. It's entirely optional, commercially significant, and entirely up to you how much or little you mark it.
No. Valentine's Day is not a public holiday anywhere in Australia.
Popular restaurants in Australian cities typically fill up 1-3 weeks in advance for Valentine's Day, particularly for the evening of February 14. If your preferred date falls on a Friday or Saturday, book even earlier. Many restaurants offer set Valentine's Day menus rather than their normal menu.
The romantic association with Saint Valentine's Day dates to the High Middle Ages — Geoffrey Chaucer's 14th century poetry is the earliest known written association of February 14 with romantic love. The modern commercial version, with cards, flowers, and chocolates, developed primarily in the 19th century in England and the US.
Flowers (roses are the traditional choice), chocolates, experiences like restaurant dinners or weekend getaways, and jewellery are consistently popular. Personalised gifts and experiences have grown significantly as alternatives to traditional items.