Valentine’s Day is a holiday invented by Hallmark and other capitalist institutions to get you to spend money. Candy, teddy bears, cards, flowers, and anything that can be reasonably made pink or red are marketed as the perfect way to show your significant other how much you love them. In the queer community, families, relationships, and friendships may not look the same as the straight, hetero marketing schemes that are in every commercial and ad during February. Here are 5 ways that you can celebrate February 14th with those you love, no matter who they are:
1. Dinner at an LGBTQ+-owned restaurant
If you’re looking for a way to support the LGBTQ+, treat your partner, or have a good meal with friends, this list of queer-owned restaurants in the DC area will make for a good night out. Whether you want a candle-lit dinner or a casual meal – this list has it all.
2. Queer Movie Night
While most Valentine’s Day movies star straight, cisgender couples, there are plenty of LGBTQ+ romantic movies to watch while snuggled up with your partner/partners or with some friends. “But I’m a Cheerleader,” “Moonlight,” and “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” are some of my favorites, but here are 26 others that will make for the perfect Valentine’s night-in.
3. Free Valentine’s Events
Take advantage of the valentine’s day happy hour and festivals with free entry, like this glow party, a hot drinks and cider festival, or this Valentine’s market with a variety of different vendors. These free events are market
4. Personalized or pre-made flowers
Whether you are buying for yourself, a partner, partners, or friends, Flowers on 14th is a local, gay-owned flower business that is known for its rainbow bouquets during Pride Month. Pick up flowers or have them delivered right to you
5. Chocolates and More
Although you never need one, Valentine’s Day is a good excuse to buy chocolates for yourself, your friends, or your loved ones. Capital Candy Jar is a perfect, queer-owned candy shop to buy from, allowing you to support your community and get some amazing treats in the process.
Whether it’s just another Tuesday or you are looking to spend Valentine’s Day with yourself, your friends, or your partner, there are plenty of ways to make February 14th a more inclusive holiday, a chance to support LGBTQ+-owned businesses, and a way to show those you love how much you love them.