With Valentine’s Day 2021 just around the corner, many of you are probably thinking of ways to make the day special. For those who haven’t thought about it – I’ve listed 10 Valentine’s Day date ideas that don’t include going to a restaurant.
For most of us, March marks one year around the sun since we were first placed in a Stay At Home Order due to COVID-19. Last Valentine’s Day was likely our last holiday where we spent time eating at a restaurant (indoors) with our sweethearts, not realizing in about a month our worlds would be turned upside down.
Hopefully, this list of Valentine’s Day date ideas will help if you need some creative inspiration this year. You can go simple or, if you’re in the mood to be a little extra, I’ve listed ways to elevate.
10 COVID-Safe Valentine’s Day Date Ideas:
#1 – Picnic
One of the perks of living in SoCal is the number of beautiful parks and beaches we have access to. So bring a blanket, a yummy meal, and enjoy the day with your loved one.
Elevate: To make your picnic super special, there are several picnic companies that do all the work for you and all you have to do is show up. Other ways to make your picnic extra special are to make or buy an Instagram worthy charcuterie board alongside a bottle of your favorite bottle of champagne.
#2 – Campfire
Many communities and beaches have fire pits where you can sit around a fire with your marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers so you can make delicious s’mores.
Elevate: You can even check out Pinterest for delicious s’mores recipes or get your favorite fancy chocolates and heart-shaped marshmallows.
#3 – Camping Under the Stars
If you were hoping to go out of town or even enjoy a staycation but simply can’t, try camping in your backyard. Pitch the tent, grab all your basic camping necessities, and enjoy a night under the stars.
Elevate: Bring an air mattress, luxurious blankets, and some romantic candles to make camping seem more like glamping.
#4 – Drive-In Movies
Drive-in movies are always fun and easy and there was definitely a revival in 2020. Do a quick google search for local drive-in movies and make your reservation.
Elevate: Pack some fancy snacks and drinks or make Valentine’s Day inspired treats from Pinterest.
#5 – Hiking
Get your hiking boots on or your favorite sneakers, wake up early, and start your day with a hike amidst the cool, fresh winter air.
Elevate: If you’re willing to wake up extra early – add some love notes and make it a fun scavenger hunt.
#6 – Virtual Cooking Class
If you google Virtual Cooking Class, you’ll be amazed at how many results pop up. So zoom in and cook a meal with your loved one. Our very own Guest Contributor/Private Chef Jill Effron has teamed up with CheezMD to offer a Virtual Valentine’s Day Class (On February 13th) to create your own romantic grazing board. Check out her Instagram @Cuarantinecookingclasses for more info!
Elevate: Spend the extra money and do a fancy cooking class making steak and lobster. You can even purchase some matching his and her aprons to make it truly memorable.
#7 – Game Night
Another fun one in this Valentine’s Day date ideas list is game night! Bust out your favorite board games, order a heart pizza, make some popcorn, and drink your beverage of choice.
Elevate: Grab some your partner’s favorite treats and use them as fun prizes.
#8 – International Themed Dinner
Order your favorite takeout from that Indian, Italian, Japanese (or wherever) restaurant and get dinner door dashed to the comfort of your own home.
Elevate: Add some pictures and décor of the destination of your cuisine and download some international music. You can even learn some romantic phrases like “I Love You” in the native language.
#9 – Bike Ride
Grab your bike and find a fun bike path – think outside of the bike too (check out new parks, the beach, trails).
Elevate: Rent a two seater bike and peddle the day away.
#10 -Wine Tasting Night
Grab a few bottles or half bottles, some crackers and cheese, and enjoy tasting wine.
Elevate: Spend a little extra money and grab some Valentine’s Day napkins, plates, and cups to make it a festive soiree.
Hope these Valentine’s Day Date ideas helped inspire you to make yours a memorable one. Remember no matter what you do, big or small – Valentine’s Day is about spending time with your loved ones.
