Local customs for the day of love

 San Jordi´s Day, the 23rd of April

These days, flower shops, street corners, avenues, roads, and squares all become places to sell and distribute by local people the thousands and thousands of roses that are given away to loved ones, as tradition dictates, but also to friends, mothers, fathers, colleagues, and clients. Because this flower has exceeded its original meaning of love, and has also become a gift of friendship and courtesy.

The Catalan version of the legend of Sant Jordi, Saint George, tells that after a fierce battle between the knight and the dragon, the beast fell, pierced by sharp iron. From the drops of blood that reached the earth a rosebush grew that blooms profusely each April. This is the traditional explanation for the custom of giving roses on St George’s Day, 23rd April.

Why this date?

April 23rd was not only famous because of the legend of St. George, but also because it is the anniversary of the death of two great writers:: CERVANTES and SHAKESPEARE.

These grand writers have passed into history for their great works, becoming an important symbol in their respective countries.

One way of acknowledging the work of these genii was to name this date as being the Book Day, and so it happened like that. On 23rd April books are sold in the streets on long stalls prepared specially for the grand occasion. Many people take advantage of this day, even though they may not normally be regular readers, to buy and enjoy a book. It is one way of encouraging people to read.

This is also a popular date to launch new novels onto the market and many authors take advantage of the fact in order to promote their latest book.
Last, but not least, there is nothing nicer than lovers exchanging a book and a rose.

-http://www.ctspanish.com/festivals/stgeorge.htm

If you want to read more about this tradition we recommend this colorful article about the topic.