Stole My Heart: Valentine’s Day is Illegal?

Could you be in a country that has banned, outlawed, or strongly urged against the celebration of this holiday? Well, if you're at the Olympics this year, then your answer is YES. Russia, among countries like Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and Iran, have outlawed or banned the celebration of Valentine's Day. While the ban may seem harsh, in Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia, it almost makes sense, as these countries are predominately Muslim and wouldn't want to encourage the celebration of a holiday named after a saint.

According to The International Business Times, the ban on Valentine's Day has been active in Russia since 2011:

Authorities in Belgorod province, in 2011, urged schools and other state institution to refrain from celebrations marking the heart-shaped holiday. It was apparently seen by some conservative Russians as an unhealthy foreign phenomenon that has infiltrated into their territory.

Some of you may have become disillusioned by the greeting card companies' holiday overstimulation, but banning a holiday or anything to do with it seems a bit harsh. So stay away from these countries unless you want to spend the holiday in handcuffs!