Valentine’s Day Date Ideas for Any Budget

February is here, which means Love Month has already begun! Don’t be surprised to see many establishments with heart-themed decorations plastered all over them.

Oh, Valentine’s Day is slowly approaching as well.

Yes, every day should feel like Valentine’s Day. Couples shouldn’t show their love and affection on just one occasion. But here’s a counterpoint: why not go a little extra for V-Day celebrations? We can all use some joy after two years of chaotic uncertainty.

Whether you’ve been together for a short while or a long time, we know that planning Valentine’s Day dates can get stressful. And nowadays, inflation and other world events are putting a damper on plans.

For some people, sorting these things out is an anxiety-inducing affair. You’re not alone, and the feeling isn’t great!

Good news though: V-Day dates don’t need to be grand. So no, you don’t have to fly out to Paris and toast to fancy champagne by the Eiffel Tower. Expensive menus need not apply, because, at the risk of sounding cliché, your quality time is what matters.

And to that end, I’ve pieced together some ideas that won’t stress you out and break the bank. Celebrate February 14 with these suggestions:

1. Have breakfast in bed

Breakfast is the day’s most important meal. Did you know that it can be a romantic one? Start the day on a special note by sharing it in bed!

Worried about messy sheets? Avoid drippy and sticky foods. Opt for foods that won’t leave sloppy messes. Fresh fruit, omelets, and bacon are great examples. Another pro tip: use sealable beverage containers to avoid spillage.

2. Dance the night away

Want to move your feet? Have a more interactive date through dancing! Not only does it make you move, but it also spikes your heart rate. Take a dance class (online or off, depending on your preference) and set the dance floor alight.

Want something a little less serious? You can always go to YouTube and learn the choreography of your favorite songs. If not, you can always follow viral TikTok trends.

3. Take a hike — literally

Winter may be the last season you’ll think of when planning hikes, but hear me out: snowy paths are beautiful! Wear your warmest coat, lace up your hike-friendly boots, and hit the trails.

Should you try this idea out, make sure to go out in favorable conditions. Don’t try to brave snowstorms and risk getting stuck in the middle of nowhere.

4. Raid your local bookstore

If you and your partner are bookworms, celebrate Valentine’s Day with your love for literature! Head down to your favorite bookstore and check out its selection. You may even end up walking out with new reads!

Make your bookstore date extra romantic by picking out a book to read to each other. Once you get home, light some candles and get comfy on the couch.

5. Have paint-and-wine date

Unleash your inner van Gogh while sipping some good wine (or cocktails). You can visit art studios and take paint-and-sip classes. Don’t want to go out? Do it in the comfort of your home! All you need is a bottle of wine, blank canvases, paint, and brushes.

Regardless of how you celebrate it, Valentine’s Day should have your love in the spotlight. Give these Valentine’s day date ideas a try and make your February 14 a day to remember!