If an expensive dinner at a crowded restaurant leaves you exhausted on Valentine's Day, it might be time to try something less high-profile. Fortunately, planning a Valentine's Day celebration at home can be just as romantic—if not more romantic—because you can set the scene to your preferences.
Whether it's a candlelit dinner, curated music, or a fun game night, spending Valentine's Day at home can be a luxury—even if kids are home. Try these romantic ideas to make your at-home date extraordinary and special.
Make Plans for the Kids
Before you do any other planning for Valentine's Day at home, make sure you can carve out some alone time. If you have young kids, make plans for them—at home or with a sitter. If you keep the kids at home, you'll have to be a little more creative.
Serve them dinner early and separately. Have a little fun setting up their own "restaurant" with a kid-friendly menu and play money or credit cards so they can pay their bill and tip the server. After the kids eat, one of you can take care of bedtime duties while the other preps for the rest of the celebration.
Decorate Your Space
Think about how your favorite eateries create ambiance and work the same magic at home with Valentine's Day decor. If you're sharing a meal, use your best dishes, clear away anything that's not-so-romantic (bye-bye laptop), and create a stellar tablescape.
Flowers can be pricey around Valentine's Day, so skip the roses and use plenty of votive candles (flameless candles are a safe option). Add a table runner and some potted herbs or succulents for a touch of green.
You don't have to eat in your dining room, either. Consider creating a cozy spot in the living room with cushions near the coffee table, plan an indoor picnic, or even serve dessert on trays in bed.
Prepare a Special Meal
If you or your partner like to cook, go all out with a multi-course Valentine's Day dinner. Or put a twist on it—maybe you want to make it a night of quick appetizers or serve a slew of aphrodisiacs in your feast.
Or, instead of a full dinner, indulge in a dessert-only menu for your at-home date. Whether you serve a few store-bought treats or decide to bake a few mini Valentine's desserts, the important thing is to savor the flavors throughout the night.
If you're both early birds, celebrate Valentine's Day with a delicious breakfast in bed. You can try a breakfast casserole recipe or make ahead a slow cooker breakfast that will be ready when you wake up. Add some fresh-squeezed juice or a morning cocktail to complete your celebration.
Mix Up Specialty Cocktails
Indulge in a few favorite drinks by mixing your own cocktails or mocktails. Try a Valentine's cocktail or a classic cocktail recipe. You could even narrow it down to a wine-tasting or around-the-world beer tour. Find flavors you and your partner will enjoy. This V-Day activity can be enjoyed on its own, or it can be the backdrop for other plans at home. A little extra thought here will go a long way.
Play Some Music and Dance Without Phones
Create a soundtrack for your Valentine's Day at home. You can put together a list of all your sentimental favorites or pull a romantic playlist from Spotify, Pandora, or another streaming service. (And since you're in your own space, slow dancing between courses is suggested.)
Dancing together is a top-notch way to add intimacy to your date night at home. While you can curate a romantic playlist with a few of your favorites, you can also try an energetic dance game, dance workout, or even challenge each other to a dance battle. Explore videos and music on your favorite platform to help your dance night be successful.
Plan Light-Hearted Activities
Valentine's Day is the perfect time to mix it up if your date nights at home are getting a little dull. Consider splurging on a date night kit, which will surprise you with themed boxes of activities, playlists, and treats that suit your interests. Or try something new, like an online cooking class or other activity you'll both enjoy.
For an educational at-home date, try visiting a museum or art gallery right from the comfort of your home. Many venues offer virtual experiences or tours—even the Louvre Museum.
For a few laughs, try some friendly competition with a couple's game night. Bring out childhood favorites or try a new-to-you board game. You can even challenge yourselves to a few video games if that's more your style.
Break a Sweat and Then Relax
Working up a sweat together by getting active or exercising can be a unique way to celebrate Valentine's Day. You'll burn calories and boost up endorphins. Try an online yoga class or YouTube workout, or get outside for a friendly soccer game.
After you're hot and sweaty, take a bath together, but not before you create an at-home spa experience. Fill your tub with scented essential oils, light a few candles, and relax with a warm bath. Then, give each other a well-deserved massage or take care of your skin with a body scrub.
Watch Romantic Movies by the Fire
If snuggling up on the couch is your speed, plan a Valentine's Day movie marathon (which you can do after you do any of the above activities). Pick a few favorites or decide to watch something new. Just be sure to find a cozy blanket and add lots of popcorn.
Bonus: If you have a fireplace or outdoor fire pit, cozy up with your loved one to enjoy the movie with added ambiance. Add a warm drink and low lights to set the mood. Try upgrading your cup of coffee or brewing a flavorful tea.
Get Nostalgic
Reminiscing on your past is a wonderful way to spend a quiet Valentine's Day at home. Grab your wedding album or video and relive your wedding day. Or talk about that first date or time when you first met. You can even put together a photo album showcasing some of your favorite memories.
In addition, let your loved one know just how much they mean to you with a homemade Valentine's Day card. Add a special note or a Valentine's quote that conveys a sentimental message.
Share a Thoughtful Gift
Valentine's Day at home is the perfect time to remind the special people in your life how much they mean to you. Share your appreciation with a Valentine's Day gift from the heart.
Even if money is tight, you can give plenty of free (or nearly free) gifts to make Valentine's Day unforgettable.
Get Crafty
Looking to get creative? Having a arts and crafts night with your special person is a great way to have fun while making something meaningful together. Try an online art class or make a Valentine's Day craft. Gather some art supplies and let your imagination soar.
Go Stargazing
Nothing says true romance like a night under the stars with your special person. Whether you’re in your backyard, on a balcony, or simply gazing through a window, sharing the wonder of the night sky together makes for a simple yet magical way to connect. So bundle up, step outside, and bask in the beauty of the cosmos (and each other!)
Read more at Real Simple
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