Even before quarantining was de rigueur, many people preferred to celebrate Valentine's Day indoors to avoid the hustle and bustle of the holiday. With the loved up annual holiday on the way, it's high time to get to planning your festivities for the night, whether it's hanging out with friends you love or that special someone.
We may, once again, be limited as to where we can go out this year, but fortunately there have never been more fun date options for staying in. The trick, whether planning a first date or choosing something special to do with a longtime significant other, is to really commit to it. Go all out with the decor, outfits, and food, whatever your theme may be. Below, we share some ideas for a memorable Valentine's Day at home (most of which can easily be adapted for an equally fun treat with friends).
1. Have an Indoor Picnic
Spread out on the living room floor with a gourmet spread (we like this lobster roll and sea salt brownies kit from Maine) and bottle of bubbles. Make sure to set the scene with a cheerful picnic blanket and pack a basket—they are worthwhile purchases if you don't already have them. The shakeup from your normal routine is sure to make the whole experience feel special.
2. Dip Everything in Chocolate
The problem with a fondue night is that when it is over, you are left with a fondue kit that will likely never get used again. That's why these stoneware pots of Belgian chocolate are so genius. Heat them up in the microwave and dip away; no clean up or storage required.
3. Relax with a Movie Marathon
One movie? That's just a regular night. Giving yourself permission to watch as many as you want? That's a proper date night. Start with Baz Luhrmann's Romeo & Juliet or embark on a series like The Matrix or Before Sunrise and enjoy a luxuriously lazy evening on the sofa. Of course, you are going to need popcorn and candy; splurge on the good stuff.
4. Become Mixology Masters
Sign up for cocktail-making class with James Beard honoree Lynnette Marrero and Ryan Chetiyawardana, the founder of former world’s best bar winner Dandelyan, at MasterClass. (Bonus, the subscription includes classes from Margaret Atwood, Dr. Jane Goodall, and other amazing celebrities.) Or, invest in a quality cocktail book and work your way through some delicious recipes all on your own.
5. Quiz Yourselves for Trivia Night
Perk up your Valentine's Day dinner conversation by busting out this quiz book—it is always fun and surprising to learn new things about your partner. Or, organize a virtual date night and team up against other couples with a round of virtual Jeopardy. Have everyone contribute to a winner's pot to amp up the friendly competition.
6. Take a Cooking Class
Make preparing a Valentine's Day meal special by signing up for a virtual cooking class (another great group date with friends.) Sur La Table's classes start at $29 per household and cover everything from full meals to happy hours and desserts. For those who like to go at their own pace, or just want all the ingredients sent in one go, Goldbelly has meal kits from top restaurants, so you can sample Kansas City barbecue, Gramercy Tavern's famous burgers, or sashimi from Hawaii.
7. Indulge in Breakfast in Bed
Simple gestures like breakfast in bed become special when you take them to the next level. Make a huge spread of their favorite things on a cute tray—bonus points if things like pancakes or waffles are heart-shaped—and serve with a favorite book, newspaper, or magazine. If cooking isn't your strong suit, then order these chocolate croissants to serve gooey out of the oven and pick up their favorite coffee.
8. Embrace Your Creative Side
A virtual painting class or pottery-making kit will let you unleash your inner artists (or at least have a good laugh) and the finished results will be fun mementos to remember this unusual Valentine's Day.
9. Work a Puzzle
Not the artistic type? You can still create something beautiful together by assembling a lush puzzle. Add a little puzzle glue and you can even save and frame the results to remember forever.
10. Bundle Up in the Backyard
February might still be chilly, but make the most of it by dressing up in your warmest coats and building a fire. Bring out a bottle of good wine, toast some oversized marshmallows, play an outdoor game, and enjoy nature during the time of year we are usually inside. (No outdoor space? Opt for a mini indoor fireplace instead.)
11. Relax for a Spa Day
If a spa weekend isn't in the cards, pamper yourselves at home. Trade off giving each other massages with stress-relieving oil, take a long soaking bath, and if you haven't gotten, ahem, distracted yet, chill out with hydrating face masks. One way or another, you'll end the day with a serious Valentine's Day glow.
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