How Do You Celebrate Valentine’s Day Alone?

It’s that time of year again. And if you’re single it might feel a little sucky. But don’t be fooled into thinking all the world’s enjoying a blissful, loved-up February 14th. There are plenty of other singles looking for ways to celebrate Valentine's Day alone - and that makes it the perfect opportunity to get out there and grab the solo mingling opportunities.

What to do on Valentine’s Day for singles

Whether you want to be with others or spend it by yourself, we have lots of good ideas for making the most of the day without a partner in tow.

Treat yourself on Valentine’s day

What would you be doing if you did have a partner? Buying presents, flowers, chocolates or taking them to dinner? Then why not do that for yourself? It may feel odd at first, but many people adopt these kinds of practices as little rituals. Comedian Joanne McNally has spoken on her podcast about how she likes to treat herself to a weekly solo Sunday lunch and that while it felt strange initially, it’s now become a highlight of her week. It’s something you might want to make routine even if you have a boyfriend or girlfriend. We all need alone time, especially those who are more introverted.

Throw a singles party

After nearly two years of on and off restrictions, most people will jump at the chance of a party now. If you love to play host and don’t have a significant other, why not message all your single mates and invite them to a gathering. The caveat of the invite is that everyone has to bring at least one other single friend. This is a super way to open up your social circle and if you don’t have space at home, check out pubs and bars with function spaces that offer free hire on the basis a bunch of people will be drinking there. You’re sure to end up with a really varied guest list that’ll provide interesting chats for the evening. And as everyone will be a friend of someone, you get to meet strangers, but they won’t be total randoms.

Arrange a Meetup

Websites like Meetup enable anyone to arrange a get-together using almost any theme. Most people attend Meetups alone, so you won’t feel out of place rocking up by yourself. Or you can take matters into your own hands; you might not want to go all out with a ‘singles’ Meetup, so consider planning something based on a hobby - like paddleboarding, quizzes or going to gigs. By arranging the event for February 14th you’ll be targeting a single demographic by default, without having to advertise it as such. Do ensure your Meetup is in a public place though, as, unlike the single friends' party idea, this will involve mixing with random strangers.

Go speed dating

Want to meet other singles, but don’t want the hassle of arranging anything yourself? Go to an organised event geared towards dating. And if you’re single but wish you were in a relationship, you can spend this Valentine's Day doing something to change that. Taking proactive steps toward a future filled with love and affection is always positive and every time you attend a speed dating session, you’re opening the door to what could be. You may only need to go once; over 80% of our speed daters get at least one match every time. Matches lead to dates. Dates lead to relationships. Booking your place at one of our nights is the beginning of your journey. And you don’t need anyone by your side to do it, which makes it an empowering solo activity. Check out the speed dating events happening near you this February.

Celebrate Galentine’s instead

After years of February being all about couples, a new holiday was born. But how and where? Well, it was actually a US TV show that coined the term in 2010. Parks and Recreation’s second season included an episode called Galentine’s Day, in which a female character gets together with her gal pals for a special brunch. It gradually took off on both sides of the Atlantic and is now a fixture on our calendars - albeit on the 13th, not the 14th of February. Venues all over the UK hold Galentine’s Day events - usually with lashings of pink decor, cocktails and bubbles. It’s a super (albeit pretty kitsch) opportunity to celebrate your friends. And you never know who you may meet during your Galentine's festivities.

Take some time for self-care

Winter can be tough. Valentine’s Day can be tough. Especially if you had a painful break-up not so long ago. Perhaps you’d rather hibernate for the occasion. And if so, give yourself permission to do that. There are lots of ways you can nourish the body and mind with time alone. So cook something tasty, grab a good book, run a bath, light a candle and cover any more of the self-love cliches you need, until you feel valued and cared for. Because real love begins with you.

Journal and reflect

Those wishing to mark the day without seeking the company of others, might like to spend some time looking inward. Significant dates in the calendar can be useful markers in reflecting on the past and thinking to the future. Maybe spend some time journaling about where you’re at and how you want life to be going forward, while setting your intentions for the next 12 months.

There are many ways to ensure your Valentine’s Day is successful as a single person. And when you’re alone, you save the worry and cost of buying a partner a gift. Not all couples actively celebrate the occasion. But if you are dating someone and fancy doing something a little different, you might like to try one of our date ideas for Valentine’s Day.
Regardless of your current relationship status, remember it is just a day. Try not to take it too seriously, whether you’re flying solo or coupled up. Instead, use February 14th and the days surrounding it as an excuse to have some fun.