Dutch lovers shy away from Valentine's Day

9 February 2004

AMSTERDAM — Expats who are hoping for a declaration of love from a Dutch national on Valentine’s Day should not be too optimistic judging by new research indicating Valentine abstinence among the local population.

Just 17 percent of 500 Dutch nationals aged 10 and above who took part in the survey said they planned to do something special to celebrate Valentine’s Day on Saturday 14 February.

Research bureau De Vos en Jansen said 20 percent of the Dutch population celebrated Valentine’s Day last year, newspaper De Telegraaf reported on Monday.

Dutch youths are the most romantic, with 40 percent of respondents 25 or younger admitting they will use the occasion to declare or affirm a romantic interest. But just 10 percent of those aged 60 or older, intend to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

About 50 percent of those who do intend to express their love will do so by buying a present. The second most popular gift is a card, primarily addressed to a current partner. Most cards will not be sent anonymously.

Men will fork out more than women, spending on average EUR 50. Women, on the other hand, intend to spend one-third of the money spent by the male side of the population.

Subject: Dutch news

Dutch lovers shy away from Valentine’s Day