Valentine’s Day may be the highlight of February, but in Italy, love is celebrated year-round with charming traditions that have stood the test of time.
This month, we’re honoring Italian romance the best way we know how – with a great Avanti cigar and a nod to the traditions that inspire amore.
Romantic Italian traditions
La Passeggiata – An evening ritual where couples, families, and friends take a leisurely stroll through town squares and along scenic streets. This cherished social custom, often occurring in the historic center of a town or city, allows people to unwind after a long day, enjoy each other’s company, and soak in the beauty of their surroundings. For couples, la passeggiata is a romantic gesture—an opportunity to walk hand in hand, engage in meaningful conversation, and simply enjoy each other’s company. It’s also a great opportunity to smoke a flavored Avanti cigar together! Try something sweet and juicy like Avanti Cherry.
Lucchetti d’Amore (“Locks of Love”) – Inspired by stories of eternal devotion, couples attach padlocks to bridges, railings, or other romantic landmarks as a symbol of their unbreakable bond. The tradition involves engraving or writing the couple’s initials on the lock before securing it to the structure and tossing the key into a river below, signifying their everlasting love. One of the most famous locations for this ritual is the Ponte Milvio in Rome, where countless lovers have left their marks in the name of romance. After declaring your endless love for each other, light up a cigar to celebrate – like the warm, smooth flavor of Avanti Vanilla.
San Valentino in Verona – Known as the city of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is one of the most romantic destinations in the world, drawing lovers from across the globe. Each year, especially around Valentine’s Day, couples visit Casa di Giulietta (“Juliet’s House”), a 14th-century building that is said to have inspired Shakespeare’s tragic love story. One of the most cherished traditions here is leaving love notes on the courtyard walls, expressing heartfelt messages, declarations of love, and wishes for lasting romance.
Just as the love between Romeo and Juliet is immortalized, some experiences – like a romantic connection or a great smoke – are meant to endure. With Superiore or Anisette Continental cigars, you can savor a longer, more satisfying smoking experience that lingers beautifully, just like the memories of a true love story.
This Valentine’s Day, light up an Avanti, sip a glass of wine, and toast to amore – the Italian way.