How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in 2021
Written By Olivia F
February 14, 2022
Celebrating any holiday during a pandemic can feel strained and unusual, especially one like Valentine's Day when the overarching theme is to be close to one another. However, this year when February 14 arrives, we'll be feeling the love more than ever — even if it happens to be from afar.
While outings in crowded spaces are off the table, there are still a slew of options for making Valentine's Day feel especially momentous this year, it just requires a pinch of creativity. Below, seven ideas to get you started and to spark some inspiration.
Have a Rom-Com Marathon
A romantic comedy is the ultimate guilty pleasure and what better time of year to indulge your cinematic desires than on Valentine’s Day? Light a candle, cozy up on the couch with your partner, and switch on the hits. Runaway Bride, Notting Hill, and When Harry Met Sally are all classics to consider as are modern favorites like Crazy Rich Asians.
Cook a Romantic Meal
Food is one of the main love languages so this one’s a no-brainer. Whether you’re a novice chef or a kitchen regular, there’s plenty of ways to whip up a delicious meal regardless of skill level. Hint: Pasta’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Build Your Own Flower Arrangement
The smell and sight of freshly-cut flowers in your home is a quick way to imbue the day with romance. If there’s a flower market near your home, peruse their selection and build your own arrangement as a fun activity you and your partner can do together. If you need a few pointers, follow @willowcrossleycreates for inspiring and creative ways to create at-home bouquets.
Make Valentine Candy Grams
Go for nostalgia this Valentine’s Day and make candy grams. Have fun with it and bring out the arts and crafts supplies! Most importantly, don’t forget the candy selection.
Do a Zoom Wine Tasting
Connect with other loved ones in your life that you can’t see IRL right now and host a wine tasting on Zoom. The best approach is to pick a couple of reds and whites to pair with a cheese or two and share the list with your friends ahead of time. If you’re feeling especially ambitious, there are several companies and wineries that will host and lead a virtual wine tasting for you.
Watch a Virtual Concert
Orchestras around the world have streamed performances since the pandemic caused a global shutdown, which coincidentally makes for a uniquely intimate Valentine’s Day activity. Dim the lights, pour a glass of wine and enjoy a front-row seat at performances like the Berlin Philharmonic and Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.
Create An At-Home Spa Day
Pamper your partner (and yourself) by creating a thoroughly relaxing at-home spa day. Set the mood with a few candles, soft music, and fresh towels and robes. Next, cut up some limes and cucumbers and create your own batch of spa water. After that, you can do anything from drawing a luxurious bath to giving each other massages — whatever de-stresses and soothes should be on your to-do list!