Unbeknownst to other countries, there is a holiday that occurs in Japan a month after Valentine’s Day- White Day. Similar to Valentine’s Day, this holiday gives back the chocolates people received and allows them to show appreciation for that person.
But White Day is also seen as a time of love and romance, so that appreciation can go deeper.
Origin of White Day
White Day didn’t always go by that name. When it originated in 1977, it was known as “Marshmallow Day”. A confectionery company decided to release a marshmallow set dedicated to men paying back the chocolates they received from women. This day became so popular that the following year it was instilled as an official holiday in Japan.
But how did the name of Marshmallow Day change so drastically? It was changed to White Day to represent the purity of love. Like how the typical pink and red of Valentine’s Day symbolizes the passion of love.
In the media, White Day is often seen as an equally or even more romantic date than Valentine’s Day. This is because it entails the reciprocation of feelings or intent portrayed with the initial given chocolate.
Gift Giving
Even without its glamour, White Day can be celebrated with the feeling of friendship or appreciation. This type of gift giving is common among friends and coworkers. It is also the chance to give “make-up” chocolates to those on Valentine’s Day who you didn’t give any to.
Gifts to give on White Day range from chocolate filled marshmallows, chocolate, a bouquet of roses, a handmade gift, or any sweet treat and white accessory, in honor of the day.
Since the holiday’s arrival to Japan, it has since spread to parts of Asia, being primarily celebrated in Japan, South Korea, and China. Although it hasn’t formally made a big splash in the states, chocolates or gifts can be given back at any time, regardless of any holiday.
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