Valentines Day on a Budget: How to Make Love Feel Expensive Without Breaking the Bank

by Alice Assad
     As we know, Valentine’s Day has slowly creeped up, and with it comes the pressure to plan something expensive and “perfect”. Let's be real, most of us can’t (and don’t want to) drop serious money on Valentine’s day. That’s why I am here to help you out! Whether this is for your significant other, Galentines, or any other gathering, I have got you covered. Here are some budget-friendly date ideas to make your Valentine's Day feel expensive without the financial burden. 

1. At home movie night:

• Who does not love going to the movies? I sure do. But paying $17 for a movie ticket is wild. Therefore I say skip the movies and turn your living room into a theatre. Grab some store-bought popcorn, dollar store candy, a solid movie, and your favourite people. Want an extra cozy experience? Build a fort!

 

1. Karaoke Battle: 

• Alright, this one is for those who love karaoke but not the prices. Grab your fake microphones, turn on YouTube, and sing your heart out! The loser has to cook a meal of the winner's choice. This is a great date for couples who want to have a good laugh and for spicing up your Galentine's date. 

 

1. The Ultimate Bake Off: 

• Nothing says Valentine’s Day more than a sugar rush. Grab your baking supplies, online recipes, and bake for your life! This is especially fun for those celebrating Valentine’s Day with a group of people, have some people be the bakers and others the judges. Make it feel like the ultimate bake off.  

 

1. Mama Mia Pizzeria: 

• A classic that never fails! Making pizzas with your significant other sounds simple but doesn’t mean boring. Have both of you make your own pizza and at the end do a taste test to see who truly is a master chef. Don’t like pizza? No problem. Make some pasta, or anything simple that doesn’t require too much effort so your partner does not feel at a disadvantage. Remember although we all love to win, we must play a fair game.

 

1. Painting contest: 

• I know this was trending awhile ago, but it is still such a thoughtful and cute date idea. For those of you who have not heard about this, set a 5 minute timer and start drawing. When the time is up, switch papers and try to complete the drawing. Remember no explanation, you must use your creativity. After a few rounds, reveal what you thought you were drawing and see if you were right.  

1. Skating: 

• This is for my winter lovers! I know we are in a chinook right now but I believe there are still some frozen lakes out there. If not, here is a list of places where you can go skiing for free or at a low cost: Bowness Park Lagoon, Carburn Park, Olympic Plaza, Prince’s Island Park, North Glenmore Park and the Olympic Oval. Grab your skates and head on down while you still can. 

 

1. Go on nice walk: 

• Speaking of chinooks! We are currently experiencing some amazing weather right now, so why not enjoy it by going on a long walk around the city, maybe to somewhere new! Enjoy it while you can because the next thing you know it's gonna be -20 all over again. 

 

1. A Walk Down Memory Lane: 

• Nothing builds intimacy quite like showing your significant other old photos from your most awkward years. It’s nostalgic, funny, and a great way to deepen your connection by sharing pieces of your past. Bonus points if they still find you cute :)

 

1. Thrift Challenge: 

• Now, this would not be a UCFN article without mentioning fashion. Don’t worry, you won’t break the bank this time. Head down to your favourite thrift store with your favourite person or people and get creative! Pick an outfit that the other person would either love, hate, or find funny. No peeking and no changing your mind last minute. You guys have 20 minutes to pick your desired outfit. It's time to have the fashion show of the century! 

I hope these ideas gave you some inspiration on how to spend your love-filled evening. Valentine's Day doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. Get creative, keep it simple, and focus on who you’re spending it with, not how much you’re spending.