Dragobete in Romania

Dragobete is a festive Romanian observance that celebrates love, romance and the spring season on or around February 24.

Is Dragobete a Public Holiday?

Dragobete is not a public holiday. Businesses have normal opening hours.

Celebrate Dragobete

There are different customs that are associated with Dragobete and these vary from place to place. It may also be observed on different dates, such as February 28 or 29, depending on the region. Many Romanians exchange gifts with their partners as a way of showing their affection for each other.

One tradition associated with superstition is for women to eat salty bread baked by the eldest woman in the household and place some basil under the pillow. It is believed that the one who does this will dream of their future husband. Another tradition is to wash one’s face with snow for happiness and good health.

Public Life

Dragobete is an observance and not a national public holiday in Romania.

About Dragobete

Dragobete is a festive Romanian holiday that is associated with love and the arrival of spring. According to myth, Dragobete was the son of Baba Dochia, a woman who marks the return of spring. The day is also known as “the time when birds are betrothed” because during this time of year, birds generally build their nests and mate.

While we diligently research and update our holiday dates, some of the information in the table above may be preliminary. If you find an error, please let us know.