Valentine's Day Ideas No Matter Your Relationship Status

Along the way I've experienced some fun ways to celebrate Love Day -- whether solo or coupled up. Check out some ideas if you're looking for something new this Valentine's Day:
This post was published on the now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform. Contributors control their own work and posted freely to our site. If you need to flag this entry as abusive, send us an email.
portrait of a young adult couple as the girl hugs her boyfriend after getting a valentines gift
portrait of a young adult couple as the girl hugs her boyfriend after getting a valentines gift

Valentine's Day.

Some love it; some loathe it -- but it always arrives on February 14th whether we like it or not.

Most of my Valentine's Days have been solo, and one of my favorites happened by chance. Once, due to a travel mishap, I was stranded in Cleveland on Valentine's Day and had to crash my best friend and her hubby's romantic evening. It was one of the most fun Valentine's Days ever, even though I was single and a "third wheel." We went to a delicious dinner with lots of vino, followed by an evening of jazz at a cool local spot. We had a ton of laughs that night that we still crack up about to this day.

The last couple years, I've been enjoying it with my S.O. which has been special -- although we are pretty low key about it and never go the traditional route of red roses or candy.

Along the way I've experienced some fun ways to celebrate Love Day -- whether solo or coupled up. Check out some ideas if you're looking for something new this Valentine's Day:

If you're single:
1. Celebrate with Friends

Round up your crew of single friends and hit up a fun restaurant, do a funny gag gift exchange or go on an adventure together like a scavenger hunt or volunteer. Toast to your friendship and the love you have for one another - because let's face it - our closest friends are family.

2. Take #1 Out on a Date
There's something extremely freeing about dining at a restaurant alone, or hitting up a museum, catching a movie, or going to a concert solo. Being with your own company can be very meaningful because having that alone time can open up new channels in your heart, mind, and soul. Plus -- you get to decide what to do and not have to compromise with anyone else. Have fun!

3. Invest In Yourself
Have you been considering a new way to amp up your life? Maybe you want to start a course that will up your career game, or do something BIG from your bucket list you've been thinking about. Mark February 14 as the day you decided to take that step, or even that leap, toward GREATNESS. You are your most important investment. Believe it. You deserve it.

If you're coupled up:
1. Have a Date Night In

Ditch the crowds and hiked up prices and cook together at home. Aside from saving money, you'll have the intimacy of your own place, and you can even try a new recipe together! Light some candles, put some tunes on, and enjoy the quiet, relaxing comfort of just the two of you. Watch a cheesy rom-com while you're at it.

2. Go On a New Adventure
This could be the perfect time to do something completely new with your partner, like take a salsa dancing class, a wine & paint night, or jump out of an airplane (for all you adrenaline junkies). The thrill of something new experienced together - like tapping into your creativity or feeling a big rush -- can increase your bond and create a shared special memory you'll have forever.

3. Welcome a 3rd Wheel
If you have a single friend who needs some extra love right now, invite them along to dinner with you and your boo. If they're single (and not happy about it) this is a nice gesture to be inclusive - especially if they feel like an alien on Valentine's Day for not being in a relationship. Even if they decline, they'll probably appreciate the kind gesture.

No matter your relationship status, there are different ways to enjoy Valentine's Day and have some fun outside of the traditional chocolate, roses, and expensive dinners. These are just a few ideas to get you started. Would love to hear the ways you celebrate - share below!

And sign up for free life and relationship tips and inspiration at my website.

Popular in the Community

Close

HuffPost Shopping’s Best Finds

MORE IN LIFE