Valentine’s Day is one of the most polarizing holidays of the year. It may be the day that some feel the most loved, or it may be the one day of the year that people dread the most. Ever since its origination as a feast to honor the Christian martyr St. Valentine, the Feb. 14 holiday has become associated with romance and cheesy heart-shaped boxes of chocolate. Regardless of romantic circumstances, Valentine’s Day should be viewed as a holiday filled with love and appreciation for all, rather than just a single significant other. Here are some ways the holiday can be spent this upcoming Sunday with a variety of important people in your life …
If you are spending it with your significant other…
There are many COVID-safe activities that you can do to express your love to one another. Traditionally, it seems as though all couples go on a romantic dinner. Given the current circumstances, ordering takeout and eating at home is always a safe bet. But, there are many outdoor activities that you and your loved one can do this year. For starters, there are several areas of Boston where you can sightsee, shop, and dine. Some of these areas include Newbury Street, the Snowport Pop-up in Seaport, and the North End. Additional areas for walking and sightseeing include Boston Common, the Freedom Trail, and the Public Garden. Indoor COVID-safe activities include an art class offered at the Museum of Fine Arts and fun workout classes at places such as Soul Cycle, Barry’s (both of which have locations in Chestnut Hill), and TITLE Boxing Club. Lastly, if you have a sweet tooth, pay a visit to the Paris Creperie in Brookline or Seaport, MIDA in the South End, Mike’s Pastry in the North End, or Sweet Tooth in Southie.
If you are spending it with your roommates and/or friends…
If you’re looking to have a low-key night in your room, what is more relaxing and low maintenance than having a rom-com marathon with your favorite people and food? Some classic Valentine’s Day movies to watch include Valentine’s Day, The Notebook (or anything Nicholas Sparks), Love Actually, A Star is Born, Hitch, 50 First Dates, The Proposal, Crazy, Stupid, Love, and Definitely, Maybe. For the sports fans, there are several games on this upcoming Feb. 14—the Daytona 500 at 2:30 p.m., Capitals vs. Penguins at 3 p.m., Flyers vs. Rangers at 6 p.m., Avalanche vs. Golden Knights at 7 p.m., Celtics vs. Wizards at 1 p.m., Bucks vs. Thunder at 7 p.m., and Lakers vs. Nuggets at 10 p.m. Additionally, you can purchase Valentine’s Day themed candy and baked goods to enjoy while watching.
If you are spending it alone…
What better way to show yourself some appreciation than self-care? This holiday is just as good as any day to do so! So, purchase some face masks, hair masks, nail polish, body scrub, and lotion, and treat yourself to a nice, relaxing day. In college, we often forget to take time out of our day to take care of ourselves. Other ways to be kind to yourself include ordering in your favorite meal, doing your favorite workout class, watching a good TV series or movie, and meditating. On the other hand, retail therapy may be a solution as well. Popular brands such as Fenty Beauty, Francesca’s, Amazon, and Apple are offering Valentine’s Day deals. Lastly, you can participate in the BC Marriage Pact or the CAB survey for a fun, COVID-friendly way to match with someone based on personality.
If you simply want to show your appreciation for others…
Have no fear, there are several ways you can express your love and appreciation for those closest to you, even if they are not physically near you. A good ole classic way to do this is to write some letters—they are certainly not outdated, and they are significantly more personal than a text or email. You can also send a virtual valentine to a special someone for free online. Additionally, you can write some simple cards or make goodie bags and drop it off at your friends’ doors. If you have a loved one far away, you can send a snack box from Amazon, a year-long lasting rose from Venus ET Fleur, or desserts from Edible Arrangements, Baked by Melissa, Shari’s Berries, or Milk Bar to show your appreciation.
Graphic by Meegan Minahan / Heights Editor
