Friday the 13th Arrives Before Valentine's Day

Superstitions, tattoos, and free marriage services mark the unlucky day

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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There are three Fridays that fall on the 13th in 2026, and the first one comes right before the day dedicated to love. Some people see the back-to-back lineup of Friday the 13th and Valentine's Day as an especially unlucky omen, while others plan to celebrate with tattoos, movies, and free marriage services.

Why it matters

Friday the 13th is considered an unlucky day, stemming from Christian traditions around the Last Supper and the crucifixion of Jesus. The proximity to Valentine's Day adds an extra layer of superstition for some, but also creates opportunities for businesses and local governments to offer special promotions and services.

The details

The unlucky association with Friday the 13th likely stems from Christianity, where 13 people were seated at the table during the Last Supper, and Jesus was crucified the following day, a Friday. Some common superstitions include avoiding the day, carrying lucky charms, and getting tattoos. Businesses often offer discounts on tattoos, while cities provide free marriage officiation services to celebrate the day.

  • The first Friday the 13th in 2026 falls on February 13.
  • There are three Fridays that fall on the 13th in 2026, the maximum possible in a year.
  • Valentine's Day is on February 14, 2026, the day after the first Friday the 13th.

The players

Oliver Peck

The owner of Elm Street Tattoo in Dallas, Texas, who is credited with starting the modern tradition of offering Friday the 13th tattoo deals and promotions.

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What’s next

Cities around the country are offering free marriage officiation services on Friday the 13th, 2026, as a way for couples to celebrate the day.

The takeaway

While some view the proximity of Friday the 13th and Valentine's Day as an unlucky omen, businesses and local governments are finding ways to turn the day into an opportunity, offering tattoo deals, free marriage services, and other promotions to embrace the superstition and bring people together.