Pandemic or otherwise, Valentine’s Day is worth celebrating. For decades now, February 14 has been associated with candlelit dinners, cards, chocolates and bouquets of roses. In fact in 2020, spending associated with this day was expected to reach $27.4 billion, up from the previous year’s record of $20.7 billion, according to a report by National Retail Federation. These figures highlight that Americans love to express their romantic side. But expressing your love, caring and appreciation for your partner need not equal fancy gifts.
Besides commercializing the day, there are plenty of other ways to express emotions to your significant other. It does not need to be extravagant, just thoughtful. So, whether it is your first date or rekindling that initial spark, here’s how to spend the sweetest holiday of the year.
1. Unusual Dinner Menu
A romantic dinner is usually cocktails and fondues. However, you could go for out-of-the-box items for a memorable date night. Spoil your beloved by indulging in an expertly curated, locally inspired menu, like mezze plate, baby romaine salad, fennel crusted tuna, cacao dusted lamb rack and pavlova, according to experts at River House at Odette’s. Pick a hotel with an outdoor fireplace, plush seating and stellar riverside views to spark the romance.
2. A Movie Marathon
A mind blowing cinematic experience with your better half can be a game changer on Valentine’s Day. Play movies like The Longest Ride, Message in a Bottle, The Notebook, Dear John, The Last Song or The Lucky One. Book yourselves a suite, king or queen sized rooms and get cozy in freshly fluffed duvets for a lovely binge-watch session.
3. Couple Classes
To strengthen and improve your relationship, try out new activities with your partner. Mix a cocktail in mixology class, relieve stress in a massage class, pursue fitness in a group exercise class or go for a swing or tango dance class, according to an article by Lifehack. These are a few of the best bonding activities, which can bring you closer as a couple. Further, they let you gain a new interest, while keeping the romance alive.
4. Museum Tour
Sprawling galleries and halls equipped with artifacts are the best place for a romantic date. You can simply stop before an artwork, sculpture or painting and express your feelings about them. This is a fun way to spark a great conversation. You can also spend ample silent hours simply observing the ancient collections around you. Museums have an aesthetic vibe in the evening and are fun places to learn and explore.
5. Go on a Hike
An ideal romantic hike consists of memories with a view, multi-hued sunset dinner, poetries to chant on the mountain ledge and a tent full of flower petals and sleeping bags, according to an article by Washington Trails Association. Make sure to pack some hot chocolate, truffles and hummus to spend a lovely night under the starts. However, do take sufficient breaks in between to avoid exhaustion to make the getaway all the more amazing.
Most of these ideas are pandemic safe, without compromising on the special moments or creativity. You can also plan a staycation over the Valentine’s weekend to spend quality time with your partner.