February means being bombarded with red hearts, pink flowers, and phrases like “be mine” written in elegant script everywhere you look. With the recent introduction of money bouquets and customized Gift hampers, TikTok videos ridiculing the singles and outlandish stunts to physically manifest love many have come to view Valentine’s Day as an annoying and unnecessary commercial celebration.
The pain and annoyance is double for those who are unattached and not exactly happy about it, more like pouring salt in a wound.
Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be that way! While a couple’s massage may not be on the docket, you can still plan on having a ball on February 14. In fact, Valentine’s Day can be a great opportunity to indulge in fun activities, whether it’s a solo dinner or some self-care. Just because you don’t have a significant other doesn’t mean you can’t commemorate this holiday with some self-love.
Not sure what to do? Here are some awesome activities to try out when you’re single on Valentine’s Day—no S.O.(Significant other) required.
- Go to a Movie
Going to the movies alone is arguably better than going with someone else. Get a ticket to a new film you’ve been dying to see, splurge on some popcorn and candy, and have a date with yourself.
- Host a Singles-Only Party
Spending time with friends is a great celebration of love that doesn’t involve romance. Invite all your favorite single people over, cook an amazing dinner, pop some bubbly, and toast to your independence. Though it being a workday might be detrimental.
- Enjoy a Beauty Treatment
Looking good and feeling good go hand in hand. Spoil yourself with a haircut, blowout, mani-pedi, or massage. Show yourself and your body some love.
- Cook a Romantic Dinner for Your Parents
What better way to celebrate love than to spend quality time with your parents? Have them forgo a traditional dinner out and cook for them instead. Set the table, light candles, and open a good bottle of wine.
- Eat at Your Favorite Restaurant
Solo dinners out are so underrated. Not only can you order whatever you want, but you don’t have to make conversation with anyone and can really focus on the delicious food. Book a table for one at your favorite restaurant (or sit at the bar), and don’t forget to end the night with dessert.
- Sign Up for a Workout
If you’ve been meaning to check out a class at a cool gym near you, now is the time! After reaping the emotional benefits of exercise, cap things off with a smoothie. Look out for the ones with unique workout programs like Zumba.
- Bake a Chocolate Layer Cake
If you already know how to bake, make a delectable dessert and don’t feel like you have to share it with anyone. Choose one that’s a little more advanced, and be proud of yourself when you nail it. If you are not a baker maybe this is the time to learn with love.
- Try Out a New Recipe
Do you have a bunch of recipes saved to your bookmarks or favorites that you’ve been meaning to try out? Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to grab the ingredients and cook a delicious dinner for one. There’s a direct link between the stomach and tender feelings so why not try it out.
- Stay In and Pamper Yourself
Make it a day of self-care activities that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. Take a long bath, scrub your whole body, put on a face mask, or paint your nails.
- Book a Couple’s Massage
Who said you need an S.O. to do a couple’s massage or facial? Bring your best friend or a family member and experience ultimate relaxation. Visit a spa near you and pamper yourselves to the maximum.
- Visit Your Favorite Bar
Odds are, that local dive bar you go to after work will be filled with single people. Order your go-to cocktail and strike up a conversation with the bartender or another patron. Or, bring a book and enjoy some me time.
- Plan a Date with Your Best Friend
Best friend love is something to celebrate! Get dressed up, go to a fancy restaurant, and order off the special Valentine’s Day menu with wine pairings. FOMO is real and you can get good pictures out of this date.
- Do Something Nice for Someone
Choose someone who is older than you, like a grandparent, elderly neighbor, or mentor. Send them a bouquet of roses with a sweet card. You could also choose a young ,single family member and surprise them at work/school. We do not want them getting too cynical.
- Watch Your Favorite Sporting Event
If the big game is on, head to a sports bar to watch. Get a group of friends together and cheer on your favorite team while sipping beers. It could be reruns of Sundays games.
- Avoid Social Media
Make V-day a phone-free day. Stalking your ex on social media to see how they’re celebrating with their new partner is not going to make you feel happy or confident, and neither are all the happy couple photos clogging up your feed.
- Offer to Babysit
Take care of your nieces and nephews (or a friend’s kids) so their parents can go out. Order pizza, watch Frozen, and make brownies, play some board games. This is a twofer, you get unconditional love from the kids and do something nice for your people.
- Go to a Comedy Show
Stand-up comedy shows are often full of self-effacing humor, and laughing is one of the best ways to boost your mood. If you don’t feel like going out, stream one of the latest specials on Netflix.
- Splurge on a Nice Piece of Jewelry
Have you had your eye on some new accessories, like an expensive pair of earrings, ring, or bracelet, but haven’t been able to justify purchasing them? Here’s your opportunity. You’re worth it!
Love Yourself
The main message in all these activities is do whatever makes you happy! And remind yourself that you are worthy of love.
