Valentine's Day is February 14, but unlike the days of elementary school where everyone sends each other cards, being an adult can mean that V-Day is a bit of a letdown. Whether you are single or your significant other is like mine and works in the restaurant industry (and never is off on Valentine's Day or weekends), you can flip the script on Valentine's Day and spend it with whomever you'd like. One of my favorite episodes of Parks and Recreation is "Galentine's Day" because it sparked a fun tradition with my local friends! You don't have to be as crafty as Leslie Knope to have a great time with your friends, the possibilities are truly limitless.
1. Go out to brunch or dinner
This is a classic idea that is always fun. Dinner reservations can be hard to come by around this time of year, so make sure you look into it in advance! Brunch is also a great option, especially for the weekend before or after Valentine's. And if you don't want to deal with the crowds, pick out some recipes and your favorite beverages and cook together at your home. You could even just grab some take-out, chill on the couch, and marathon your favorite movies or TV show, like "Parks and Recreation."
2. Attend your favorite workout class together
The gym is not going to be as crowded on holidays. This is a great day to go out with friends to your favorite workout class: pilates, barre, yoga, Zumba, CrossFit... whatever suits you best! After the gym, relax in the sauna or steam room, or make a run for smoothies. It's all about that self-love.
3. Check out local events
Some places near you may host special events for the holiday, and unless it says otherwise, nothing is stopping you from going with your friends. Check out museums, painting classes, or your city's parks and recreation departments to see if they have anything that interests you! One year, my friend and I went to UNC's Morehead planetarium for a special Valentine's Day event.
4. Hit the arcade
Arcades are coming back into popularity as 80's and 90's inspired things are in right now. This can make for a great night out with your girlfriends. Stock up on the tokens and the popcorn and play away! If you live in the Raleigh area, you can check out Boxcar Bar + Arcade, and bonus: they allow dogs!
5. Cheer on your hometown sports team
Basketball and hockey are both in season. Find out if there are any games or deals on tickets and round up your squad! In the Raleigh area, the Carolina Hurricanes have two homegames during the week of Valentine's Day, or you can the watch the NC State Wolfpack basketball team take on Syracuse on TV on Valentine's Day.
6. Have a spa night
A girl's night full of pampering is another great way to spend an evening together. This can be done together at home using your favorite products or out at a salon or spa. Massages, manicures, dye and style hair... what you choose to do together is completely up to you!
7. Get together and create a craft
Hanging out and creating something together can be a great way to create a memory! Gather up some snacks from Target's Valentine aisle and whatever materials needed. Painting, photography, or scrapbooking can all be really fun activities. I especially love this cute air plant craft from Brit + Co.
Valentine's Day doesn't have to always be about romantic love. Spending time with your best gal pals can be a fun way to celebrate & enjoy the day.
