Whether you're single, happily coupled, or still in the beginning stages of a brand new relationship, Feb. 14 will likely be here before you know it. After the hustle and bustle of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's, it can be tempting to pass on setting up Valentine's Day decorations or baking Valentine's Day desserts. Asking yourself if it's really worth it to spend so much time and energy on just one day as you're just recovering from the winter holidays is completely understandable. But that's all the more reason to put some time and effort into making Valentine's Day extra special this year.
Whether you're looking to shower a parent, sibling, significant other, or child with love on Valentine's Day, the most important thing to remember is that the holiday doesn't have to be about planning the sparkliest, most expensive family activities or date night. It can simply be about spending time with the people you love — and letting them know that you love them. If you still find yourself blanking on exactly what to plan for an at-home date night or an afternoon making Valentine's Day crafts with your kids, there are plenty of ideas to be had. They can be as simple or elaborate as you like, too. With a little planning, even the simplest of activities can feel special and memorable. Here are 37 ideas for fun things to do on Valentine's Day that you might not have thought of just yet.
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If you're lucky enough to live in a place that has a snowy white winter, get outside and enjoy it! It's a great way to feel like a kid again, which is a fun and playful way to bond with your partner.
2
Make a scrapbook of your relationship.
Take some time to go through your photos together and instead of letting them get lost in the ether of your cell phone, print them out and arrange them together in a memory book.
3
Have a poker tournament.
Play heads up with your partner, or invite a few other couples over to have a Valentine's Day poker tournament. Bluffing might not be encouraged in relationships, but all's fair in love and poker.
It’s no secret that reading love poems can be incredibly romantic, but it can also seem pretty cheesy on any day that isn’t Valentine’s Day. Take advantage of the ooey gooey holiday and let out your inner cheeseball.
5
Watch each partner's favorite movie.
Enjoy a double-feature from the comfort of your couch and allow each partner to choose their favorite movie to watch. It's a nice way to relax and to get to know each other better.
6
Play cookbook roulette.
If you’re the kind of person who collects cookbooks but rarely cracks them open, play a game of cookbook roulette: Randomly pick a cookbook and then flip the pages and wait for your partner to yell, “Stop!” Then, make that surprise recipe together.
7
Take them in to a ballgame.
If your partner is a huge baseball fanatic, recreate their favorite ball game from the comfort of your living room. Make hot dogs and wrap them up in tin foil, get your favorite cheap beer, and turn on a recording of an old game (preferably one in which their team wins).
A night out at the theatre is sure to be both entertaining and exciting. You can see what production your local theatre has on or head into a larger nearby city to catch a bigger act.
Going for a nice long hike with your Valentine is not only a fun activity, but will give you a chance to talk and bond even more.
10
Book a room at a local hotel.
You and your loved one will love pampering yourselves with a one night's stay in a nice hotel room. And you don't even need to travel! You can simply grab a room at a hotel in your city.
11
Have a board game night.
Play two-player games with your sweetheart, or invite friends over for a fun night of board games, tasty snacks, and laughter.
If you and your partner are into being active, enjoy a nice run together where you can take in a scenic trail, have some fun conversations, and work up an appetite for a fancy dinner later.
13
Take a wine appreciation class.
Valentine’s Day really does call for a glass — or two, or three — of wine. So why not learn something about the drink and find new favorites while you’re at it?
Whether you’re in a long-term relationship or are as single as they come, Valentine’s Day is a great time to dance. Slow dance in the living room with your lover or bop around to girl power songs in your bedroom alone — whatever you choose, dancing will boost your endorphins and make you happy after a long day.
Find your inner child and spend the night playing classic arcade games like pinball and Ms. Pac-Man.
16
Go to a restaurant on your bucket list.
Everyone has that romantic restaurant they've been dying to try. Make a reservation a few months in advance for a night that you won't forget.
17
Attend a chocolate making class.
Chocolate is synonymous with Valentine's Day, but these sweets will taste that much better when you make them yourself with love.
Checking out the latest flick is a classic date night for a reason — it's fun and everyone walks away happy. Head to the theater with your SO to see a movie that'll spark some romance.
Nothing in the theaters that's catching your eye? Attend a live comedy show instead for a night of laughter and good company.
21
Get a couples massage.
Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to splurge on a professional massage. You and your partner deserve this — plus, it may even be good for your relationship.
If it's safe to do so, why not take a trip out of town (especially if you've been following COVD-19 safety precautions and staying home for the better part of a year). If ever there was a time to knock a spot off your bucket list, it's this year.
23
Pop a bottle of champagne.
There's something about this bubbly beverage that feels festive — whether you're drinking it with your partner, best friend, or solo while binge watching your favorite reality TV show.
Your inner child is dying to do this, we know. Spend the day however you please: Go to a museum, put together a puzzle, or cuddle on the couch all day long.
Whether you're an expert in the kitchen or need all the help you can get, attending a cooking class is a fun way to learn a new recipe and spend quality time with your sweetheart.
In a digital world, it's extra meaningful to craft a handwritten letter to someone you love.
27
Recreate a favorite date.
Whether it's your first date or the one where you fell in love, Valentine's Day is the perfect holiday to relive one of the best days of your life together.
28
Go for a romantic walk.
Between both of your busy schedules, it may be hard to find the time to go for a relaxing stroll with your partner. But Valentine's Day is the perfect occasion to make time for this simple gesture.
A bath with rose petals and candles is something you'll enjoy solo or with a romantic partner.
SHOP DRIED ROSE PETALS
30
Have a candlelit dinner at home.
Sometimes the best nights are those spent over a home-cooked meal, a set of candles, and a good bottle of vino.
You'll feel extra close to your partner after learning (or attempting to learn) how to dance together. Maybe neither of you will walk away as pros, but you're guaranteed to have a blast.
We often take for granted the breathtaking display sunsets painted in the sky every evening. Spend an hour watching day turn into night with your loved one for a moment of romance.
Staycations are an easy way to save money while still feeling like you're getting a break from your usual routine. Have breakfast in bed, build a fire, or transform your living room into a movie theatre.
34
Set up some twinkle lights.
Get out those Christmas lights from the basement and string them across your living room for a romantic, fun surprise that costs exactly zero dollars. Have them on and twinkling while you prepare a nice dinner, eat takeout, or watch a romantic comedy with the family.
35
Make Valentine's Day cards.
Whether you do this activity as a couple or with your kiddos, making thoughtful, handmade Valentine's Day cards for each other can be a fun activity that allows you to exchange heartwarming, handmade gifts.
For a dinner that will feel a little more elaborate and special than your usual meals, host a fondue night for your family or your significant other. It can become a fun tradition, and everyone can participate by bringing a different food to dip in the cheese.
37
Finish a house project together.
Pour a couple beers, put on your favorite tunes, and get to work (together) on a house project. Reward yourself at the end with your favorite pizza delivery and a fun movie. You'll feel accomplished and like you've bonded afterwards.
Olivia Muenter
Olivia Muenter is a freelance writer and former fashion and beauty editor who writes about fashion, beauty, lifestyle, relationships, travel, home decor, and more for Woman's Day and beyond.
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