Lupercalia (lu-per-call-ee-uh) was an ancient Roman festival celebrated during February.

Today, some Pagans and Satanists celebrate Lupercalia as a time to think about love, freedom, and having control over your own body and identity.

How did people celebrate Lupercalia?

Lupercalia was celebrated as winter was coming to an end and spring was getting closer. People gathered together for festivals and celebrations.

Families and friends spent time together, and couples could celebrate their love.

The ancient Romans also believed that their celebrations could bring good luck and help their communities.

Why does Lupercalia take place on Valentine's Day?

You might notice that Lupercalia and Valentine's Day are both celebrated in February!

Lupercalia existed long before Christianity became widespread in Rome. As Christianity became more powerful, some Christian leaders tried to stop older Pagan traditions and replace them with Christian celebrations.

Later, Valentine's Day became an important Christian holiday celebrating Saint Valentine. Over many years, Valentine's Day became a popular celebration of love for everyone.

Some people believe that Valentine's Day may have been influenced by older Roman traditions, including Lupercalia. Historians still debate exactly how much the two holidays are connected.

Is Lupercalia celebrated today?

Lupercalia is still celebrated by some people today.

Different people celebrate it in different ways. They might spend time with people they love, celebrate their freedom, or enjoy the coming of spring.

Whether you celebrate Lupercalia, Valentine's Day, both, or neither, February can be a great time to think about love, friendship, and respecting yourself and others. ❤️