They target the heart with their marketing and goofy advertising. Every year, millions of dollars are spent to tug the heartstrings and sell everything from expensive flower bouquets to glittering stud earrings. After all, isn’t love a precious stone? Wrong.
But there’s a catch. People are still influenced by advertising. Valentine’s Day is predicted to cost about $21.8 billion in the United States in 2021. That works out to almost $165 per person! And that figure is expected to top $24 billion this year. But, guess what? You don’t have to break the bank to show your valentine that you care. Here are budget-friendly Valentine’s Day date ideas to wow your special someone (and your wallet).
1. Watch a movie while eating dinner.
Okay, we know that dinner and a movie is the most classic date, but don’t dismiss it. There’s nothing stopping you from becoming creative with it—and you might have to if COVID-19 restrictions remain in effect in your area. So, how about a romantic Netflix movie and a candlelit home-cooked meal? You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy a good meal. Order a pizza, order takeout, or get your favorite local restaurant’s dish to go. You can relax at home while everyone else is scurrying to make a reservation and find a babysitter.
2. Go for a Drive
Simply jump in the car with your sweetheart and go! You’ll spend a little money on gas, but you’ll make some memorable memories as you tour a new town or visit a famous landmark. You might also take pictures together in specific areas around town where you’ve had pleasant memories. Make a playlist to listen to while you’re driving.
3. Plan a game night with your friends.
This is the epitome of a low-cost date. Who doesn’t enjoy a competitive board game? Make a night of it by bringing out a few old board games or picking up a new one. Do you like playing video games? You can take that path as well. You’ll be hungry after all that gaming, so have some Valentine’s-themed snacks on hand. Red velvet cupcakes, candy conversation hearts, and the gold standard—a heart-shaped box of chocolates—are all guaranteed to please.
4. Make a museum visit
A pair of museum tickets isn’t normally too pricey. Additionally, coupons are occasionally available. Learn something about art or history, as well as about each other! Combine this idea with a home-cooked meal and a movie or game night, and you’ve got yourself a jam-packed day.
5. Taking a Hike
Take a picnic lunch and a few water bottles with you on the trail. Nothing helps you connect more than stepping away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While going up a mountain or through the woods, you’ll be shocked at the level of discussion you can have with someone. Plus, you’ll get extra credit for all the exercise you’ll do! Why not get your heart in shape while you’re at it? After all, it’s Valentine’s Day.
6. Take a stroll in a botanical garden.
Take a trip to a tree nursery instead of ordering a dozen long-stemmed roses for $100! Why spend a lot of money on flowers that will only last a few days when you can put your money into a plant that will last a lifetime? Pick up a small bush or tree for your backyard, or some flower bulbs to plant now and watch them bloom when the weather warms up (spring is coming, you know).
7. Visit a local farmer’s market.
So, walking around the farmers market in February could be a little cool (bundle up). In addition, farmers markets in your area might not be operating in February. However, if they are open and the weather is pleasant, it is a really inexpensive and simple date. Set a budget for each other to spend on some fun products, or embark on a hunt to see who can make the finest homemade jam or beef jerky. It’s also fine if you don’t spend any money and just walk around together.
8. Help each other prepare dinner
Going to the farmers market for some fresh produce? Make a Valentine’s Day supper with them. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to make memories, despite what every Valentine’s Day commercial tells you. Send the kids over to Grandma’s for a romantic evening. It can be as opulent as you want it to be (filet mignon) or as simple as you want it to be (pizza) (grilled cheese and tomato soup). In the background, play some Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, or Nat King Cole for the ultimate Valentine’s romance music.
9. Reminisce
Take out that box of old photos, watch your wedding video, or go over your love letters to each other. Remembering the love, you’ve shared throughout the years gives you butterflies in your stomach like nothing else. Take some time to reflect on where you’ve been and what the future holds for you and your partner!
10. Go for a Picnic.
Get outside if the weather allows. Grab some cheese, crackers, and a bottle of wine to make sandwiches. After that, find a quiet place to sit and relax together. You don’t have to meet your special someone in a four-star restaurant. If it’s too chilly outside for a picnic (it’s winter, after all), spread out a blanket on the living room floor and enjoy a picnic inside.
11. Meet for a cup of coffee
Coffee and conversation have a romantic force that should never be underestimated. A wonderful Valentine’s Day date can be had for as low as ten dollars (depending on how fancy your coffee tastes are). You may either stay in the coffee shop and have a meaningful conversation, or you can take your coffee with you and go for a walk around town. You can’t go wrong as long as everyone is together and well-rested.
Also, keep in mind that quality time is free. If money is scarce, a heartfelt love letter and one-on-one time with each other are the best options. Whatever Valentine’s Day date idea you choose, make sure to set aside money for it ahead of time.