We Asked 5 People How They Spend Valentine’s Day Solo
A few years ago, I realized Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about romantic love at all. There’s self-love, friendship love, and even the quiet love of your own rituals. Once I embraced that, February 14 became less stressful and more celebratory—just me, my favorite routines, and little ways to honor life.
Curious about how others celebrate solo Valentine’s Days, I reached out to a handful of friends and fellow homebodies. Here’s what they shared—and why I’m officially stealing all of it this year.
Ⅰ. Curate a Cozy Night In With Scent, Sound, and Soft Textures
“Valentine’s Day for me has become a sensory celebration,” says Marissa, 32, an interior designer in Portland, Oregon. “I spend the afternoon rearranging cushions and throws on my sofa, lighting candles in every corner, and diffusing essential oils that make my apartment smell like a spa. Then I pick a playlist of songs that make me feel grounded—classical piano, some jazz, or even the movie soundtracks I loved as a kid. I brew a cup of chamomile tea and settle in with a blanket over my legs. By the time evening rolls around, it’s like my apartment has transformed into the safest, most comforting place in the world. I might cook a simple pasta or just nibble on chocolate while journaling. There’s something so satisfying about creating an experience that honors my love for myself—it feels indulgent without needing anyone else there.”
Ⅱ. Host a ‘Plant Date’
“Valentine’s Day isn’t just for people,” laughs Dev, 28, a freelance graphic designer in Austin, Texas. “One year I decided to have a proper date with my plants. I set up a little corner with my largest fiddle leaf fig and my snake plants, repotted a few, wiped the leaves, and even hung tiny string lights. I made a playlist with mellow indie music and poured myself a glass of sparkling water with fresh berries. Sitting there, talking to my plants like they were old friends, felt surprisingly heartwarming. Afterward, I journaled about what each plant has taught me—patience, resilience, care. By the end of the evening, I felt nourished in a way that no dinner reservation could have given me.”
Ⅲ. Transform Your Kitchen Into a One-Person Cooking Class
“One of my favorite solo Valentine’s Days was all about food,” says Laila, a lifestyle blogger in San Francisco. “I prepped an entire multi-course dinner for myself—from appetizer to dessert. Not rushed, not stressing about impressing anyone, just following the recipes I’ve been wanting to try. I set the table nicely, lit a candle, and wore something comfy but a little festive. While the food cooked, I sipped a cocktail and listened to a podcast about architecture, something I’ve been fascinated with but never take the time to explore. When I finally sat down to eat, it felt like a tiny celebration of my creativity, patience, and taste. Cooking for one can feel so lonely if you see it that way—but with the right mindset, it becomes a loving ritual, and by the time the last bite is gone, I’m full in every sense.”
Ⅳ. Celebrate With Your Pet
“For me, Valentine’s Day has become all about celebrating my dog, Jasper,” says Fiona, 30, a copywriter in Denver, Colorado. “I give him extra-long walks, make a little pup-friendly treat, and set up a tiny indoor ‘picnic’ with his favorite toys. We lounge on the floor together, I read a book or listen to music, and he curls up next to me like the best Valentine ever. It’s simple, but it reminds me of unconditional love—and it’s impossible to feel lonely when you have that little ball of joy by your side. Sometimes we even watch a movie together—him napping on my lap while I indulge in something romantic or funny. It’s become one of my favorite rituals of the year.”
Ⅴ. Treat Yourself to a Thoughtful Gift
“I’ve started a tradition of picking out a gift for myself,” says Naomi, a digital strategist in Brooklyn, New York. “It could be something small, like a candle or a book I’ve been eyeing, or something bigger, like a piece of jewelry or a special indulgence. I spend time reflecting on why I chose it, wrapping it carefully—even if I bought it online—and setting it somewhere I’ll notice it all day. When I finally open it, I savor the moment, appreciating that I can care for myself this way. It’s not about replacing anyone—it’s a reminder that I deserve thoughtfulness and delight, even from myself.”
Spending Valentine’s Day solo doesn’t have to mean being lonely. From pampering yourself to celebrating your furry companion, these five ideas show that the holiday can be a celebration of love in its many forms—especially the love you give yourself.
