May Noahides Celebrate Secular Holidays? — Valentine’s Day Edition
Celebrating secular holidays is permitted for Noahides, as long as the holiday is not connected with idolatry or pagan celebrations.
In the case of Valentine’s Day, even though it originated as a minor Christian feast day it has become far more secularized in recent years, to the point where most people who celebrate it do not connect it to any religion or religious celebration. The tradition of giving gifts, cards, flowers and chocolates as an expression of romantic love originated in England in the 19th century and has spread worldwide today.
The general rule when celebrating secular holidays is that as long as there is no type of idolatrous service associated with the holiday, and no forbidden behavior during the celebration (illegal activities, destruction of property, etc.), then the activity is permitted.
