If you’re like me, you don’t care overly much for over-commercialized holidays. Don’t get me wrong, there’s no problem with them – in fact, I think they’re wonderful for bringing people together. It’s just that I don’t typically get caught up in the hype and I tend to almost forget about these holidays until they’ve snuck up on me. Then I’m rushing to pull something together for us.
However, seasonal living is an important part of mindful living, and since I’ve been on a mindfulness journey, I’ve been trying harder to embrace the seasons – and their holidays. It not only gives me something to look forward to; it encourages a deeper level of satisfaction in the current season. Since Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, I’ve been trying to think of some easy, low-budget ways to celebrate with my family. If you’re still looking for ways to celebrate, too, I’ve got 14 different ideas for you to choose from this Valentine’s Day!
1. Cook a Romantic Dinner at Home
A dinner out is always nice, but you don’t have to go to a fancy place to celebrate romance. Skip the expensive restaurants and get creative in the kitchen. Choose a recipe you both love (or try something new) and work together to prepare it. Set the mood with candles, soft music, and your nicest dinnerware for a fancy restaurant vibe at home.
2. Movie Night with a Twist
Transform your living room into the ultimate cozy spot. Build a blanket fort, grab some popcorn and themed snacks, and settle in for a romantic classic or your favorite family-friendly movie if your kids are joining you. Bonus points for matching pajamas!
3. Love Letter Exchange
Sometimes, we take our partners for granted. After all, they know we love them, right? But how often do we tell them all the things we love about them? Write each other heartfelt love letters and take turns reading them aloud. Expressing your love in words is a meaningful and intimate way to celebrate the day.
Fun fact: my husband and I will be including our kids in this tradition this year! I can’t wait to hear what they have to say about each other.
4. DIY Dessert Night
Turn your kitchen into a bakery for the night. Bake cookies, cupcakes, or brownies together, and then decorate them with fun toppings. For an added twist, have a friendly competition to see who can make the most creative treat. You can even enjoy these treats while you’re having a movie night!
5. At-Home Spa Night
Treat yourselves to a spa evening without spending a dime. DIY a face mask together, give each other a massage, or soak in a foot bath for a relaxing and romantic experience. Dim the lights, light some candles, and play soothing music for that spa-like ambiance.
6. Starry Night Picnic
If you live somewhere comparably warm for the winter, lay out a blanket in your backyard or on your balcony, or go to a local park. Bring dinner, snacks, and hot drinks, and stargaze together while chatting or sharing your dreams. Let go of your worries and focus on each other and the beauty of the vast night sky above.
7. Romantic Walk
Take a leisurely walk through a local park, along the beach, or around your neighborhood. Hold hands, enjoy the fresh air, and take time to reconnect without distractions. Leave work and home stressors behind and enjoy being in each other’s presence.
8. Game Night for Two
Break out your favorite board games, card games, or video games for a fun night of friendly competition. Add some playful stakes, like the winner picks dessert or the loser has to give a massage. Dim the lights to set the mood and include some themed snacks for extra fun.
9. Create a Memory Scrapbook
Take a trip down memory lane. Pull out old photos, ticket stubs, and mementos from your time together, and create a scrapbook of your favorite moments. It’s a sweet way to reminisce and relive your best memories as a couple.
10. DIY Photo Shoot
Dress up (or go casual) and take photos at home or in a scenic local spot. Use your phone and props you already have to capture new memories while having fun together. This can be a fun way to create – and capture – new memories for you to look back on in the future.
11. Build a Vision Board Together
Use this time to dream big as a couple. Grab some snacks and get comfortable somewhere cozy. Cut out pictures from old magazines or print off images from the internet to create a vision board of your shared goals and dreams.
12. Love Songs Playlist
Create a playlist of songs that remind you of each other or that represent your relationship. Your tastes might have changed through the years – that’s ok. Include songs from your past that spark memories of your time together. Spend the evening listening to the playlist together, singing along, or even having a spontaneous dance party.
13. Explore a Local Spot
Research free or low-cost attractions near you, like a park, museum, or community event. Exploring something new together is always an adventure, and getting to know your hometown is just an added bonus.
14. DIY Craft Night
Get crafty with each other! Make Valentine’s cards, design personalized keepsakes, or even paint together. Use supplies you already have for a fun and creative bonding experience. I’ve included a couple of craft ideas to get you started.
We made this adorable heart garland last year. I made it a family event by having the kids help me and it turned out really cute. We cut out the shapes, glued them together, and strung them all on a piece of twine. Easy-peasy!
You can make fingerprint art if you have paper or cardstock and ink. Use your fingers to make prints in the shape of a heart. Then you can write encouraging messages or Bible verses around it.
Conclusion
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be memorable. Whether you’re a couple who loves cozy nights in or fun adventures out, these budget-friendly ideas are perfect for celebrating love without breaking the bank. Let me know which of these ideas you’re planning to try in the comments below!
