Lovers are waiting with anticipation for the new excuse to go shopping for red roses and heart-shaped chocolates. Lovers’ Day is celebrated annually on February 14th. But what lies behind this (sometimes a bit excessive) celebration of love? Here are 7 Fun Facts About Valentine’s Day.
1. Though officially dedicated to the 5th century Christian martyr Valentine, Valentine’s Day has its origins deeply rooted in the Lupercalia, a pagan celebration of the Roman Empire. But unlike the sweet, romantic holiday today, the old Roman festival was licentious, featuring naked men parading on the streets, chasing maidens.
2. The legend of St. Valentine dates back to the time of the Emperor Claudius II who forbade young soldiers from marrying in hopes that he might create a better, stronger army of single men. Defying the ban, Valentine performed marriages in secret, but was executed for his deeds on February 14th.
3. Valentine’s Day cards have been exchanged for over three centuries, but the Victorians thought it unlucky to sign them (which actually created a lot of confusion at times). And if you were wondering, about 1 billion cards are exchanged every year worldwide.
4. Chocolates are the most popular Valentine’s Day gift. The first chocolate box especially designed for this lovely occasion was made by Richard Cadbury in the year 1868.
5. If you are single on this day, don’t be sad: celebrate SAD! Single Awareness Day was created for single people to celebrate (or… well, mourn in company) their solo status.
6. In Finland, 14th of February is celebrated as a day of friendship and companionship.
7. And if you were wondering when would be the best time to throw in the big question, you might want to know that some 220.000 people propose on Valentine’s Day every single year.
