This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Ohio U chapter.
Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching. Whether you’re in a relationship, single, “it’s complicated,” or spending the day with some close friends- February 14th is stressful for nearly everyone. The anxiety of buying a heartfelt gift or planning a romantic date only adds more fuel to the fire. As a college student, I want to make my partner feel appreciated without seeming like I am on a budget.
Here are some fun, romantic, and cheap Valentine’s Day dates for couples, friends, or even to do by yourself.
DATES
- PICNIC IN THE PARK
- Picnics may sound a little corny but spice it up! Make s’mores, wine and cheese board (if you are of age), hummus and pita ships. You get the point. Picnics are a great way to spend quality time with your significant other. Grab a blanket, pack some snacks, and head to your pre-picked locations.
- GAME NIGHT
- This is one for all the competitive couples. Bust out all the board games you have and get grinding. If you want to kick things up a notch, make a bet; whoever loses must do the chores.
- PAINT-A-THON
- Head to your nearest dollar general store and grab a few canvases and paints. Painting is one of the more relaxing date ideas. Putting on some some music and doing something creative with a loved one is, surprisingly, very romantic. You can even exchange your art at the end as gifts for each other.
GIFTS
- BREAKFAST IN BED
- It is simple and sweet. Waking up to someone surprising me with food is a dream come true. It doesn’t have to be extravagant – some doughnuts and a coffee will do.
- GET CRAFTY
- While this one may take more planning, it is beyond worth it. Create something that resonates with your partner’s personality. Book worm? Make some cute bookmarks to hold their page number. Coffee addict? Paint a mug with a pattern they will love waking up for. Music junkie? Create a playlist with songs that remind you of them. The list is never ending.
- HANDWRITTEN LETTER
- Handwritten notes are a little old-fashioned, but it makes a statement. You can write lengthy, heartfelt proclamation of your love or just leave little notes throughout the day for your partner to find.
- Handwritten notes are a little old-fashioned, but it makes a statement. You can write lengthy, heartfelt proclamation of your love or just leave little notes throughout the day for your partner to find.
Valentine’s Day is not about the gifts, dates, or plans. It’s a day to express gratitude and appreciation to the people you love. You don’t need hundreds of dollars to do that.