Valentine's Day quiz questions for romantics and cynics alike

Valentine's Day divides opinion, but everyone can enjoy a quiz. Whether you're hosting a couples night or just want to add a love-themed round to your regular quiz, these three questions cover the history and quirks of the most romantic day on the calendar.

The questions

1In which century did sending Valentine's cards become popular in Britain: the 15th, 17th or 19th century?Use in quizUse

Answer:19th century(click to reveal)

While handwritten love notes existed earlier, the mass production of Valentine's cards took off in the 1840s. The introduction of the Penny Post in 1840 made sending cards affordable, and by 1871 over 1.5 million Valentine's cards were being sent annually in Britain.

2Cupid is the Roman god of love, often depicted as a cherub with a bow and arrow. What is the name of his Greek equivalent?Use in quizUse

Answer:Eros(click to reveal)

In Greek mythology, Eros was originally depicted as a handsome young man rather than a chubby baby. The Romans adopted him as Cupid (from the Latin "cupido" meaning desire).

3Which Shakespeare play, set in Verona, features a famous balcony scene and has become synonymous with tragic young love?Use in quizUse

Answer:Romeo and Juliet(click to reveal)

The "Juliet's balcony" in Verona is now a tourist attraction, though the building has no actual connection to Shakespeare's fictional characters. Visitors leave love letters on the walls.

4In which country did the tradition of giving red roses on Valentine's Day originate?Use in quizUse

Answer:England(click to reveal)

The red rose became associated with romantic love in England during the 18th century, influenced by the language of flowers popular in the Victorian era. Red roses symbolised deep love and passion, and the tradition spread worldwide through British colonial influence.

5What date is "Singles' Day" celebrated, mostly in Asia?Use in quizUse

Answer:November 11 (also accept 11/11 or 11th November)(click to reveal)

Singles' Day originated in China in the 1990s as an anti-Valentine's Day celebration for single people. The date 11/11 was chosen because the number 1 resembles a single person. It has since become the world's largest online shopping day, with Alibaba recording billions in sales.

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These questions pair well with a music round of love songs or a picture round of famous romantic film couples.

In 2027, Valentine's Day is also Super Bowl Sunday, so a Super Bowl round might keep everyone happy. Every other clash and theme is in our quiz calendar.