35 Actually Fun Things to Do on Valentine’s Day
The color of the roses is red, and the violets have blue, and locating enjoyable things to do during Valentine’s Day is an enormous task. To put it in more (less romantic) words, it could be quite a bit–lots of excitement and excitement and a lot of pressure, no matter the status of your relationship. It doesn’t need to be this way! It’s indeed the norm for Hallmark holidays; however, if you look beyond your box filled with candy (which is highly recommended; however, we’re not saying it’s not a good idea), There are many other ways to be a lover–romantic or not.
In terms of easing stress, if Valentine’s Day is your affair, there’s nothing wrong in not celebrating it at all (and it’s a given that tthatCOVID-19 guidelines for safety must always be considered in your plans for social events). If you want to be a part of the celebration, There’s plenty of enjoyment to be had without the sweet scent of rose petals, mixed with the sour notes of discontent. The origins of the festival need to be clarified. So why not take it on as your own?
Valentine’s Day plans should be about spending time with the people you love, recognizing the love that surrounds you, and building your relationship–with your family, friends, and a long-term partner, an all-new one, or even a regular” date. With that sentiment in mind, we’ve collected 35 fun, original suggestions for activities to enjoy for Valentine’s Day. Because this holiday deserves to be better than it is and so should you.
Decorate your Valentine’s Day tree.
“I have an annual Valentine’s Tree. It doesn’t need to be a pink one. I just put up a standard green artificial tree, similar to the one I put up during Christmas. I cut it down with white and red lights, then wrap it in garland, and then place old valentines in the branches. I’m a bit sad to put the decorations for Christmas away in January, but it’s an excellent opportunity to get my mood to get back on track.” -Kate N., teacher
Take a break in the rage room.
“Last year, my boyfriend and I visited Break Bar NYC. After being trapped during the outbreak We decided that this would be an ideal way to ease stress. The bar offers a wide variety of cocktails and beers The best thing is that when you’ve finished your drink, you can smash the glass you was served in! We lined them up and then went at it with them, which was enjoyable and extremely safe (there’s a designated area, and you’re required to wear safety gear). We didn’t venture into the Wrecking Club area, where, based on the amount you pay you can smash televisions, computers and other electrical items. But those who came out looked satisfied!” — Rachel Q., director of development for the audience.
Take a trip to a sexy wrestling show.
“I attended Lucha VaVoom, in L.A. once. It was a burlesque and lucha libre show. It’s a more sexually sexy and enjoyable WWE night with Mexican masks that are glam and a bit wild. The music blasts and the performers are phenomenal, and usually there are comedy hosts. It’s the perfect combination of sexy and fun for a date with a relaxed atmosphere.” — The Xochitl Model. Designer of clothing.
Donate to queer causes.
“Every Valentine’s Day, I make a point of donating my money to gay causes. Saint Valentine was executed for performing ceremonies for couples in the time that new marriages were illegal in early Rome. Therefore, donating money to those who do not enjoy basic human rights due to who they love is perfect idea to be happy!” — Christina L., artist
Take a picnic indoors in an accessible fort.
“Indoor enjoyment” will be an appropriate V-Day theme for me and my boyfriend for the second year in a row (hello pandemics, cold New York temperatures). I’m planning to construct an fort using sheets similar to what we used to do as children and use our L-shaped couch and a few counter chairs. Every skilled fort-builder is aware that contrast in heights is crucial. We’ll then enjoy a picnic with homemade chocolate-covered strawberries, cheese and charcuterie platter and a glass of beers for the guy and wines on my behalf.” -Beth A., talent management Beth A., the talent manager.
Go to a game cafe.
“A date one time took me to a small hole-in-the-wall restaurant near NYU that was renowned for having a wide selection of board games. It was by far the most enjoyable date I’ve ever had. Monopoly, Settlers of Catan–whatever board game you can imagine, the cafe was filled with it. It was fun to get to know someone during an enjoyable match of Scrabble. It’s a blast to learn about the person’s favourite dessert while they try to score a triple-word! The cafe served a variety of tasty teas and coffees which are a lot much more appealing to me than drinking in a bar as it did not feel like a typical Valentine’s Day dinner-and-a-movie date. It was easy since it was purely about playing games on the board and relaxing. Even though the two of us did not work out the way we wanted, it was a nice experience to have a different experience and I’ll be able to be able to remember it!” — Adrianna F., the SELF social media manager
Make up a character to pretend to be a Nascar driver.
“One Valentine’s Day, my partner and I went to experience something I’d always dreamed of doing for all of my life: race cars around tracks. It was at an Nascar location located in New Jersey during off-hours and we took turns driving an Lamborghini on the track, for couple of laps (with an instructor on the passenger seat with a second brake — they’re sure not to let some foolish people wreck the Lambos). Then we ate at a chain restaurant that was huge and goofy near by, ordered huge fishbowl drinks, then rode the train back to home. It was a lot of fun, but not terrifying enough to make you stomach shiver.” -Molly S., editor. Molly S., editor
Learn to sail.
“I had a sailing lesson with my ex-love one on Valentine’s day–it was among our first major dates. We learned manage the sail as well as the rudder. It was exhilarating, as was learning all the technical terms for directional and technical use–tacking bow, stern forward, aft — from a large strapping sailor who was very accommodating with us. We were in the water for around four hours, with the majority of which was learned how navigate the vessel along with all the safety aspects (like making sure to avoid being hit into the boom). The remaining time was us cruising around the bay, with our captain in charge and it was a great time to relax. We both love sailing on the water and the course included some physical exercise and also getting a new skill It was an enjoyable time everywhere.” -Jarrett M., writer and editor. Jarrett M., editor, and writer
Visit a dog show (or catch one on TV). ).
“One time, we went to the Westminster Dog Show on Valentine’s Day and it was such amusing walking around the meet-and-greet area, stroking the dogs, and even giving the dogs new nicknames (‘This one deserves to be named Donkey Kong’) before the show. Then, we could enjoy our favourite dogs from our seats, and physically boo the dogs we thought were unworthy.” -Andrew L., software developer
Check your astrology chart.
“I’ve always been a fan of Astrology, but had never been able to have my chart read, so on Valentine’s Day my partner me and I joined an Astrologer‘s house to get an authentic reading. The lady made us tea and printed out copies for our birth records which she discussed in detail: career, love family, everything. It was an extremely enjoyable method of self-reflection but I’d suggest taking it with someone who you are close to since it’s very intimate and vulnerable experience. I was able to say that I didn’t just learned much about myself, but also got to know my friend more too.” -Mia L., event production Mia L., producer of events.
You can host a cocktail party for your friends.
“I enjoyed Valentine’s Day growing up–especially all of the pink and red decor, as well as the idea that it doesn’t have to be romantic. So it was a while ago that I was a single person, I put on small cocktail parties for 10 of my closest friends. I prepared strawberry mojitos, and another person provided sangria. I set out finger foods and red velvet cupcakes and I made Valentine’s Day cards that everyone could enjoy. One of my guests provided tarot cards, and she did readings for the group. It was a lot of enjoyable!” — Tiffany M., fashion consultant
Make a Valentine’s-themed crafting afternoon.
“A acquaintance of mine arranged an event for a potluck lunch to make cards with a large group of people. The group was set up in a room in her apartment which included a long table for seating, a few tables to serve food, and even a backdrop for photos. There were likely to be around 20 people in attendance and everyone had something to eat: quiches and potato chips, cinnamon roll Mimosa fixings, scones as well as a small amount of everything! Everyone ate and socialized before getting into the business of crafting. My friend supplied lots of tools like construction paper, scissors glitter, glue scraps of papers, stickers, and pen. Most of us had their own materials to share and we ended up with an abundance of materials to work with. There was no structure for the craft–it was simply an open area to create whatever you want. We snapped photos of the backdrop of all the cards we made when they were done!” — Lily B., data visualization engineer
Enjoy a tasting of beer at local breweries.
“One year, my husband and me went to an area brewery that was hosting an Valentine’s Day tasting event. Each of us received a drink–five small glasses that were filled with a selection of craft beers, ranging from lighter to darker. Even if you’re usually not an avid drinker, taking an alcoholic drink is enjoyable because you get to take a taste of and enjoy the different flavors, and also see how the process of brewing affects the end product. My husband is a brewer at home, which is why the experience was a lot of fun for him and it was better than the standard drink from bars.” -Laurie N., creative director. Laurie N., creative director
Get yourself a unique gift.
“My grandma and mom were fond of wearing pearls, and I’ve always wanted to purchase one. I’ve been eyeing it for a long time and thought, What’s the deal? I don’t have to wait for anyone to present this item. I can give myself a gift! It was delivered a few days before Valentine’s Day, and I had completely forgotten about the gift card I wrote. It was so enjoyable getting the package and finding: “To Frances, You’re a sexy girl! It was wonderful to honor myself.” -Frances D., the SELF social media manager.
Go on a group dinner date.
“It’s much simpler to sit down at a table for Valentine’s Day dinner as a gathering with more than two. Restaurants that are well-known for their service anticipate a lot of couples looking for two-tops, but they typically reserve one or two tables for the event that larger parties are expected. On Valentine’s Day my companion and I ate at Frankies 457, located in Brooklyn with a couple. The place was filled to the gills by couples who were on dates, however there were three or two open four-tops (it’s recommended to call ahead to make sure there’s a table that’s available for larger parties but). We walked into the restaurant and enjoyed an incredible dinner with wonderful buddies.” -Bryan M.*
Make fancy homemade pizza.
“My husband and me make home-cooked pizzas every year around Valentine’s Day. The idea was born in 2015, when we started engaged and fed up of paying for a bland preset meal in NYC however we desired something different. We were both into cookery shows so we decided to create an actual competition and each making a pie, and then surprise each other with the taste. Fast forward to our wedding and having a child (who enjoys pizza! ) This has become an annual ritual. We buy pizza dough of a nearby pizzeria as well as top-quality ingredients, and then try to develop fresh and interesting flavor combinations. My personal favorite has been a balsamic pearson burrata pie — delicious.” — Rinata R., consumer research
Learn how to make sushi at home.
“Since I’d attended an introductory sushi class, I suggested making sushi at home to celebrate Valentine’s Day with my now-ex. It was an unofficial relationship, and he was quite quiet and shy. The event ended up being more enjoyable than a awkward evening out. We planned a whole day of it. The next morning, we visited an open food market located at L.A.’s Little Tokyo and bought salmon and spicy tuna and sushi fixings, as well as smaller appetizers, and some mochi to eat for dessert. We brought the haul back to my home and started the prep work. We laughed as we made a mistake in rolling the sushi and it turned out to be an enjoyable, low-cost easy, low-pressure meal.” -Tracy S., app developer. Tracy S., app creator
Be your date.
“I cook myself a meal and then eat in candles. or draw a bath, and then jump in! In essence, anything I wish someone else could do for me I will make for myself. This is my standard practice when I’m not married. Would you like to have an awesome boyfriend who knew how to surf? Learn surf by yourself!” — Amy S., art director
Make a complete meal using an upcoming cookbook.
“I’m constantly looking for new reasons to experiment with new recipes which is why Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion. I enjoy opening an old book and using it for an entire dinner. This year I’m planning to experiment with an appetizer of Heidi Swanson’s Super Natural Easy for A saffron and peanut salad for a start and then ravioli cooked in almond broth as the main course and raspberry cookies to serve as dessert. Making recipe ideas from this book helps the food seem more cohesive and makes me feel fulfilled.” -Caroline C., artist. Caroline C., artist
Take a seat in a restaurant or bar with views.
“Sometimes the only thing a date needs to be special is a stunning scene. Prior to our wedding my husband, now my husband, took me to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. It’s an elevated train car suspended from a cable that goes all the way to an extremely steep mountain. Within ten minutes of getting onto the tramway, you’re at the top, and the view is breathtaking. We hiked to the top to sunset, and then ate an evening meal at the eatery.” -Jill D., food stylist. Jill D., food stylist
Participate in a couple’s paint-and-sip event.
“My boyfriend and me went on the trip as a team to a local paint and sip, where you can bring your own drinks to a legitimate painting class. They held an Valentine’s Day couples special where instead of everyone creating their own image the couples each received two canvasses to paint the joint painting. It was enjoyable to collaborate and then share our work of art with the other group members at the close!” — Fallon H. Human resources, human resources
Have a bath in the mud.
“I went on a date for take a mud bath in an afternoon spa. It was pretty funny, but also very enjoyable. We wore bathing suits, and we covered ourselves with mud, afterwards, we lounged in the spa throughout the day. My skin hasn’t been this soft ever since.” -Kirk B., musician.
Have a self-care day.
“I have a significant other who performs sweet, generous acts of kindness throughout the year, but not during Valentine’s Day, so I generally spend my time doing whatever makes me feel the most at ease. Sometimes, I make an extravagant dinner, and always make time for self-care–like getting myself an op-do or having my hair blown-out. I like the idea taking the day off from couples and extravagant dinner experiences and more about taking care of yourself.” -Jeanette W., consultant Jeanette J. Consultant
Pack a picnic for the hike.
“My my partner and me are both pretty outdoorsy and generally stay clear of the crowds at restaurants for Valentine’s Day in favor of something more adventurous. We once made a picnic lunch of cheese crackers, sandwiches, a few snacks we purchased at a local deli, bottles of sparkling wine, and went hiking with our group of friends up to the summit on Mount Tam, where there’s an amazing view from San Francisco. The hike wasn’t long, but the elevation of Mount Tam made it quite strenuous. It was enjoyable because we were able to communicate with one another and catch up as we were on the trail and, because we were incredibly hungry at the point of reaching the top, our picnic lunch was just as satisfying as the views.” — Cynthia A. the head I.T. I.T.
Have a fancy dinner-and-a-movie friend date.
“When I first started dating, buddies from nursing school and me would meet up for a nice meal and a film in the Arclight theater in L.A. The most memorable time was the year that fifty shades of grey was released. Three of us shopped in a nice outfit, ate dinner at a fine restaurant, then ate popcorn as we watched the sexy film. It was a real Galentine’s Day! We put in so much effort at nursing school that it was a special and rare night to relax and treat ourselves. What a wonderful souvenir of a time where I had nothing to think about and the peace which came with it.” Jennifer Z., nurse. Jennifer Z., nurse
Learn to dance in a class.
“When I was on a trip to Brazil I found this very exciting, vibrant type of dance with partners called forro. This year, to celebrate Valentine’s Day, I found an organization in the area which offered classes every week. I went with my friend and we had a wonderful time. The first portion of the course was a basic instruction. The second part was pairing together to exercise. Every couple of minutes, the instructor would require you to change partners, which turned out to be a great time since every time I went back to my partner it was a feeling of being special. We enjoyed it so much that we began going to class weekly!” — Manuel A., graphic artist
Enjoy a relaxing Korean day at the spa with your friends.
“Two years ago I attended an afternoon with my girlfriends at the SoJo Spa Club, a glitzy Korean spa located in New Jersey. You just walk around dressed in bathing suits and robes throughout the day, moving between hot pools to the next and then taking a nap in the various saunas for relaxation. Bathing outdoors was amazing (even in February’s chilly temperatures of 10 degrees) as was the rooftop heated infinity pool looks out over the river as well as the Manhattan skyline at night. It’s so dreamy. There was a great food court as well. Everyone got noodles and each gave the other sheet masks. It was great enjoyable and a great reminder of the importance to show love to yourself.” -Dawn M., event coordinator. Dawn M., Event planner
Enjoy a day out with your pet.
“One year, around Valentine’s Day, when I was just moving from L.A. I made the decision to put my dog Guy up in my car and set off for an adventure to Ojai the city that is not too far away from the city. We stopped at a book store first which is where I purchased Tom Robbins’ Jitterbug Perfume, and then hiked in the hills until Meditation Mount, a beautiful meditation centre. Then, I changed my clothes and took a meal outside on the patio of this stunning Italian establishment, Osteria Monte Grappa. The staff was super nice to Guy and even gave me a free dessert! As the weather got colder the next day, we drove back home. This was among my most memorable days.” -Sam B., actor-director, yoga instructor
Create an artwork.
“One year following an breakup, I bought myself blooms, and I had a pop-up writer compose a poem for me. I provided her with a specific request about a particular memory of the blossoming of trees in orange and she did an amazing job. She was able to nail the prompt to the point where it made me cry. Afterward I went out and snapped film images of the trees in orange. This is a bit melodramatic, i am sure however, I was searching at ways of expressing my difficult emotions, so I decided to turn the images into art.” -Ashley T., writer
Take a solo trip.
“I went to a nice hotel that was just outside of town, to celebrate Valentine’s day night The hotel was it was the Parker situated in Palm Springs. I dressed in an outfit of a bathrobe, requested room service, watched a ridiculous television on cable, and then sat down in the huge comfortable, clean bed with my own. It was amazing to be able to do something that usually wouldn’t do. It was also sufficient to manage it into my timetable and just enough to feel like I had truly escaped.” -Chris P.* Chris P.*
Go rollerskating.
“One of the most romantic Valentine’s Day events I’ve experienced is go roller skating. It’s a lot of enjoyable and you can even bring your single acquaintances! My first experience to San Francisco at a little skate rink that was a pop-up in the Mission and they were having an evening of skates with a theme. My friend and I went completely dressed in head-to toe metallic spandex, and we rented skates at the location. The DJ played a diverse mix of music–MGMT Abba and the BeeGees. There were plenty of extravagantly dressed queer people, making it feel even more festive (and positive for the community).” Unknown– Remy Remy. Writer
Learn about falconry.
“My husband is obsessed with dinosaurs and I figured that I should offer him the best gift that was a falconry course that allowed us to hang with raptors, huge, amazing predators of prey. The school was located in the mountains to the west from San Diego, so it was truly beautiful. The majority of the class was educational, focusing on the birds and their habitats, but at the end, the teacher provides you with a protective glove and a tiny piece of meat. And this huge raptor will land on your palm. It was a lot of fun to be out of the city, and it was completely unusual, and extremely cool.” -Meg W., photographer. Meg W., photographer
Make sure your partner has some time.
“There was a time on Valentine’s Day when I knew my wife was in dire need of solitude more than anything (we have a son so time is in short quantity). When she returned back from work I surprised her with my ideal arrangement: snacks on in the bedroom, Queer Eye waiting on the television and a stack of magazines as well as an elegant candles in the flame.” -Justin K., creative director. Justin K., creative director
You can have a Valentine’s Day-themed evening of horror films.
“My spouse, Jimmy, and I are both huge horror fans. We decided last year to watch romantic Valentine’s themed horror films on Valentine’s Day. We watched the first My Bloody Valentine and the 2001’s Valentine as well as The Love Witch There are many other horror films to pick from! I also enjoy going all out and create some sort of themed food which is why I made an emoji-style lasagna and an adorable wedding cake and heart-shaped cutlery.” -Marie L., freelance writer
Host a love-letter writing party.
“As an active member of the group for women I ran with my friend, I assisted her host an Valentine’s Day event called A Love Letter to Friendship. She provided crafting materials (paper markers, markers envelopes, glitter, stamps) for guests who did not bring their own. Additionally, there were themed meals and drinks available. In the beginning we gathered in a group regarding the significance of having friends. In the second half of the time we spent writing letters to our dearest friends, letting them know that we cherish and value the friendship, then addressed and stamped them so that they could be sent. Finally, we spent an hour or so making “love letters” to ourselves. I have one of mine, and I set an alarm that reminds me to write it out loud to myself in the year following the occasion. It was very nice to be able to take a moment and tell my dearest friends that I am truly grateful for them. I’m not doing enough of even though they know they are right. It was also a pleasure to truly think about the importance of friendships, some of the most vital relationships in my life.” — Malia S., SELF-editor
