When Andy and I were younger, we would celebrate Valentine’s Day big. We’d stay at a hotel for the weekend, have dinner and see a movie, and buy each other fancy and sentimental gifts. These days, our Valentine’s Days are much more low-key. Financially, we just can’t justify spending so much of our money on one day. When it comes to gifts, neither of us really need or want much of anything. Over the years we’ve realized that you don’t need to spend a ton of money or make big elaborate plans to have a wonderful Valentine’s Day. There are plenty of ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day that are inexpensive, meaningful, and perfect for a couple ready to celebrate the love they share.

This year, consider one of the below options when planning your Valentine’s Day. These Valentine’s Day activities are certain to entertain and allow you to spend time with your loved one. And they do so in ways that are kind to your wallet, health, and free time.

7 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

1. Hiking with a picnic. This one is probably going to depend on what the weather is like in mid-February where you live. Unless of course you enjoy hiking in 20 degree weather and knee-high snow. Then by all means, go for it. Hiking is a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day because it allows you and your spouse to reconnect. No one is on the phone or computer and it brings you back to a simpler time. Back when you were young and had all the time in the world to just do what you wanted to do. As a bonus, hiking is great for your health but doesn’t feel like exercise, so if you’ve made it a goal to get healthier this year, this is going to do a lot more good than a heavy meal and chocolates. For the picnic, bring some of your favorite treats. Maybe things you don’t get to eat at home because the kids won’t eat it.
2. Board games and pizza. We have a collection of board games we used to play. I’m willing to bet you do, too. But then came more and more responsibilities, more exhausting jobs, and kids to care for. And now the board games just sit there. Collecting dust. This Valentine’s Day, pull them out. Play some of your favorites that you used to love to play. You’ll score bonus points with your spouse if you’re willing to play one you’re not in love with because you know they love it. Order a pizza and eat while you play.
3. Do a project. This could go one of two ways. You could work on a project for your home that you’ve been putting off to do the “more important” projects, or this could be completely just for fun. A while back, Andy and I got really into glass painting. He was so much better at it that I was. You could make something decorative for your home or something to give as a gift.
4. Learn something new together. If you don’t mind working at something a little, you could try learning something completely new. You can rent videos from the Library on how to do different dances that you can learn in your own living room. Or pull up a YouTube and try yoga or Pilates together. Just make sure it’s something you both want to try and that it’s something you can do together!
5. Reminisce. Pull out the wedding photos and finally start putting together that scrap book. Make some popcorn, or grab a glass of wine if that’s you’re thing, and watch your wedding video. Look back over all of the years you’ve spent together and discuss your fondest memories. Laugh over old jokes. Remember all of the good times.
6. Explore your local culture. Find a local treasure and check it out together. Does your town have a festival you’ve never been to? How about a museum? Are there any annual events going on over Valentine’s Day you can go to? Is your town known for the best of something? Find it and get one. Explore your town as if you’ve never been there before.
7. Cook a meal together. These days, it’s common for families to order take out, or rush through dinner. Lots of couples don’t cook or eat together. Choose a meal that you both love, or both want to try, and take the time to make it together. Then sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Now, pick one or two ideas from the list. You and your partner will love being able to focus on each other instead of gifts and elaborate plans. Take the opportunity to reconnect, relive your dating years, and relax. Enjoy spending the day, or evening, with the one you love.

What other ideas do you have to add to the list? Share them below!

-To your Better Life-

Kira