February 14th. The day when love is in the air, life is good. A day dedicated for the romantic ones.
You've probably celebrated this day once or twice. But, have you ever wondered what it is all about? Why are flowers and chocolate boxes used to demonstrate love?
Who is Saint Valentine
This celebrated day is recognized throughout the world but did you know that it was one man that started this whole event?
According to legend, Saint Valentine was a priest in Ancient Rome during the reign of Roman Emperor Claudius II which dates back to 270 A.D. who imposed a ban on marriage because he believed single men made better soldiers. A very romantic Bishop Valentine disregarded the Emperor’s wishes and chose love rather than war. He continued to marry people in secret until he was caught and thrown in jail for treason. He was imprisoned and sentenced to death.
Saint Valentine was later executed on the 14th of February, that is why up till tomorrow people celebrate
St. Valentine’s every year on this date.
Why Red Roses
The color red is often related with True Love, Respect, Romance, I Love You, Congratulations. Legend has it that the goddess of love, Venus, favors red roses above all other flowers.
Research also has it that almost 75% of persons who buy flowers on Valentine’s Day are men and roses given each year on this day is over 50 million.
Gifts, Cards, Wine
Many persons have taken this holiday personal. They are very serious about it and put a lot of thought in planning a spectacular night out with someone special or a romantic gateway.
They even make sure that in advance their gifts are already purchased – the typical Valentine’s Day presents include flowers, chocolate , teddy bears and candy. Of course, anything with cupid, pink hearts and kisses are also being included.
Valentine's Day eccentricity
Candle light dinner at restaurants
In the US, many fast-food chains like McDonald’s and White Castle , organise something special on February 14th. It is great for anyone who is on a budget or in a hurry and it's definitely very romantic!Black noodles for the lonely
Women give chocolate to men on February 14th in Seoul and all of South Korea. On the 14th of March, men show their love in return by gifting candy to their girlfriends and wives. On the 14th of April (aka Black Day) all the single men and ladies who did not receive any candy or chocolate grieve by going out and eating black noodles.White Day
Japan's custom is somewhat different from our own. To show their love, on Valentine's Day, women give men hand-made chocolate gifts, while men reciprocate on the following day, February 15th (White Day) by gifting a present that is thrice as valuable as the gift they received from the female counterpart on the 14th of February.A ban on Valentine’s Day
Did you know that valentine celebration is actually banned in Saudi Arabia. Gifting tokens of affection such as flowers, chocolates or presents is forbidden, and companies in the retail and hospitality industry are discouraged from celebrating valentines day. Furthermore, people are not allowed to wear anything red clothing; selling red objects on this day is likewise prohibited.