5 Awesome (and Inexpensive) Ways to Have Fun This Valentine's Day!

While it's important to make your partner feel seen on Valentine's Day, especially if it's a holiday they like to celebrate, it's also important to stay within your budget so that the two of you can reach your long-term goals. Below are five awesome some and inexpensive ways to have fun this Valentine's Day (or any special date night)!

Article by Andrea Jefferson

Plan a Cozy Indoor Date (Budget: $35-$60)

This is not only a great way to save money but it gives motivation to tidy up and finish uncompleted chores.

A cozy indoor date is where you make the most of your space and imagination. You can make a dinner with some quick and easy recipes like my favorite chicken spaghetti or order from a local spot using sites like DoorDash, GrubHub, or Uber Eats. DoorDash will even deliver your favorite wine straight to your door (just make sure you have your I.D. ready). ($20-$25)

Feel free to get some fresh flowers from the grocery store ($7-$10) or outsource to your local florist; alternatively, decorate with fake rose petals ($2-$5 and reusable for next year). red balloons ($2-$5 per pack) or specifically Valentine's balloons (Roughly $1-$3 each), and make a bag of goodies for your special person using their favorite soaps, candies, or knick-knacks like lighters and socks (Roughly $10).

Find a nice movie while you eat dinner or put on some romantic music to dance to.

Go on a Romantic Picnic (Budget: $10-$30)

This is perfect if your partner is the outdoors-y type. Even the back yard is suitable if you set the mood right.

Going on a romantic picnic doesn't have to break the bank, and it's perfect if you and your partner enjoy being in nature. Buy some already-made food, grab a blanket and some 4/20 snacks, and drive near a lake, beach, or vist a hiking clearing to have a romantic picnic with flowers, chocolates, and music. The majority of the budget for this will go toward food and gas if you have to leave the city for the scenery. Some insect repellant couldn't hurt either!

Catch the Movies ($15-$25)

You can't go wrong with this classic option. It gives an opportunity for hand-holding in the present and intense debates in the future.

The movies is one of the best inexpensive ways to have fun this Valentine's Day.

I have always loved a good movie date, bonus points if it's my turn to pick the movie! This is the best option for couples that don't want to feel pressure to get too dressed up or be around a lot of people. It's also somewhat budget-friendly if you smuggle in your own snacks (ladies, your purse is your best friend). Search for "movies near me" and see what's playing!

Go Bowling ($20-$30)

Unleash your competitive side and put a wager on the game like loser has to give ten kisses. ;*

Couples that play together stay together. Bowling is loads of fun without breaking the bank, and you get to show off your flirty trash-talking skills. Most bowling allies also have hot food options, so you can sit down before or after a game to talk and laugh together.

Bowling is a group activity, so feel free to double up on the fun by bringing another couple!

Visit the Pool Hall ($10-$30)

Still in the spirit of competition? Keep up your flirty trash-talk with a fun billiard game!

This is great for couples that like to socialize or drink (just don't get behind the wheel too soon). Get dressed up in your coolest outfit, grab some cash to convert into quarters, and you're on your way to a fun game of pool! Pool is also fun to play in groups and can you help you all meet new people!

Bonus Option: Double Dinner Date ($25-$50)

This is great for couples that have mutual friends or want to hang out with coupled family members.

You probably haven't seen your homegirl since Friendsgiving or even Christmas. Why not catch up over dinner with your partners? Stay in the loop with your friends and create new memories with your partner! Unwinding with friends makes for great conversation, community-building, and shared memories!

In conclusion, there are several ways to enjoy Valentine's Day without overspending; and a person that really loves you will appreciate you even thinking about them and making the effort. A lot of problems in relationships can be resolved by communicating effectively and honestly, making shared compromises, and keeping your word to one another. Don't spend another Valentine's Day disappointing your special person. Instead, do the best you can to let them know today and every day, they are important to you.

Andrea Jefferson is a writer and creative from Mississippi. She has had her writing published in various magazines and literary journals such as High Shelf Press and Literary Orphans Journal. Her motivational brand, Pearls Unclutched, aims to help women be the best versions of themselves inside and out. Follow us on TikTok.