Current Special : Free bottle of champagne or box of chocolates with orders over $99!

Valentine's Day in Russia

Russians are quite fond of celebrating holidays. They strictly observe the traditions of Orthodox and old Soviet holidays and also readily accept European and North American holidays such as Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day and Halloween.

When the so-called iron curtain fell and lots of foreigners started visiting Russia, it's people found out about some of their holidays like Valentine's Day and Halloween and adopted them. They are still not as popular as in the West but they are becoming so. On February 14th now, Russian women expect to receive flowers or other gifts from their husbands or boyfriends and shops are open until late on February 13th so guys can do any last-minute shopping.
The actual origin of Valentine's Day is a mystery and varying opinions have been floated about it.
According to some legends St. Valentine served as a priest at a temple during the reign of Claudius in Ancient Rome. Claudius had Valentine jailed for defying his decree, which outlawed marriage for young men.
Another legend has it that the Valentines Day originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity on Feb. 14, 269 A.D.

There is an interesting story of romance between St. Valentine and the jailor's daughter. St. Valentine left a farewell note for her, the note read- "from your Valentine.'' Valentine's Day is thus thought to have started in the Roman Empire. In ancient Rome, February 14th was a holiday to honor Juno. Juno was the Queen of the Roman Gods and Goddesses. The Romans regarded her as the Goddess of women and marriage.
The popularity of Valentines Day rose tremendously among the people of Rome and in tune with it Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honor St. Valentine, the patron saint of love and romance.
In Russia like on all special occasions, flowers have come to be one of the symbols of Valentine's Day and one of the things that men most popularly send or deliver to their girlfriends or wives. As different flower varieties and colors convey different meanings, their exchange is very romantic and meaningful, particularly in the countries of the Former Soviet Union, where a whole culture of flower giving exists. Remember that flowers have the power of expressing thoughts and emotions that sometimes can't be expressed readily in words so be careful in your choices! For Russian women sending flowers means showing care and attention - try to choose a bunch of flowers or bouquet which best expresses your feelings and intentions. If you have any questions about flower selections just drop us a line or give us a call -- we are here to help and advise you!

''I don't understand why Cupid was chosen to represent Valentine's Day. When I think about romance, the last thing on my mind is a short, chubby toddler coming at me with a weapon.'' - Author Unknown

Shopping cart

Click the link below to view the contents of your CCNow shopping cart

To Petersburg With Love

Valentine's Day in Russia