If your Valentine’s Day routine has become as dry as a chalky conversation heart or feels as dated as the A.D. origins of the romantic holiday, give these unique date ideas a try.
Friendly competition
Who says Valentine’s dates have to be mushy? Try something active. Check out go-karting, batting cages, ax throwing or shooting ranges in your area and challenge your significant other to a little healthy competition.
At-home fondue
Try your hand at creating a fondue meal at home. Start with some cheese and end with chocolate. Don’t forget all the fixings for dipping.
Bring the theater to you
If you don’t have a babysitter for the classic dinner-and-a-movie date, buy or borrow a projector screen and set up a cozy spot on the living room floor. Thank goodness you don’t have to limit your snacks at home like the movie theater. Pick out all your favorite candies beforehand, then lounge in the comfort of your own home.
Progressive dinner
Don’t want to limit the date to only dinner? Make a whole afternoon of it. Take turns choosing appetizers, drinks, an entrée and dessert. Have the meals delivered to your home or go out on the town. The adventure is yours to choose.
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Act like kids again
Whether you dated in your teen years or later on, Valentine’s Day basically gives you permission to act like giddy kids again. Hit up your local arcade for some Skee-Ball and laser tag. Or spend the afternoon jumping together at a trampoline park.
Take a virtual class
One of the better trends to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic was easy to access digital resources – especially if a babysitter isn’t possible. Try a wine-tasting or cooking class from your kitchen.
Get artsy
If you’re artistic (or not!), channel your inner Picasso. Book a paint, pottery or glass-blowing class ahead of time. Or, if creating art isn’t your thing, head to a museum to admire the pros instead.
Play hooky for Valentine’s Day
Can’t fit in a planned date night or get a sitter? Play hooky from your responsibilities, just for the afternoon. Spontaneity feels extra romantic, no? Head to a popular local area and decide what to do on the way.
Get out of your element
Sick of boring and predictable dates? Do something totally new, and maybe a bit out of your comfort zone. Try an escape room, indoor skydiving or karaoke. It will definitely be a date to remember.
Love from a distance
If you need to be extra creative due to physical distance from your spouse, send chocolate-covered strawberries or their favorite dessert. Open care packages over FaceTime or send them a Cameo from their favorite celebrity. Lean into the long-distance cliche and send them a handwritten letter of your favorite memories together.
Or – don’t want to celebrate alone? Raincheck the whole day altogether. Who says you have to celebrate Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14, anyway?
Don’t be afraid to embrace the alone time either. Plan a Galentine’s Day with your girlfriends or grab your favorite takeout. Treat yourself to a spa day or a cheesy rom-com marathon.
Whatever you decide, don’t be afraid to switch things up.
