Single on Valentine’s Day? Five Ways to Still Enjoy the Holiday

Cupid is making his rounds again. Fancy restaurants are booked months in advance, roses are hiked up in price, and only the subpar chocolates remain on the shelves. Everyone has love on the mind; but what about the singles? For many people, it’s not a big deal, but if you’re the type of person who mourns the lack of a beau this time of year, here are five suggestions that might lift your spirits. 

Attend the Bear Stuffing Event on Campus

Do you miss Build-A-Bear? Are you a plushie enthusiast? Then this event is perfect for you! You’ll be able to make your own teddy bear at the Valentine’s Day bear stuffing happening on campus at the Ordinary. On Feb. 14th from 3-5 p.m., you can experience childhood nostalgia and bond with other single people, and what college student would turn down free stuff, especially something to snuggle with in the cold winter?

Call a Friend or Family Member

It’s most likely been a while since you called your mom; I know I’m guilty of doing so. Or perhaps there is a friend back home you were super close with before you left for college, but you’ve fallen out of touch. In either case, this is the perfect time to ring them up and have a good, long chat. Not only does this show the other person you remember and care for them, but it also provides a sense of company that might otherwise be missed on Valentine’s. 

Make Yourself Something Special to Eat (or Order Your Favorite Take-Out)

If you’re more culinary-inclined, find a recipe you’ve wanted to try for a while but didn’t have time to before. Pull out that cookbook you brought from home, or google a recipe and go from there. If you’re afraid of too many leftovers, you can easily look up a recipe “for one”  or offer to cook for your roommates as well. If you can burn water, fear not; with apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and GrubHub, you’re no longer restricted to pizza and Chinese food. Whether Chick-fil-A, Burger King, or a local Japanese restaurant, whatever tickles your fancy is only a tap away.

Watch the Movie/TV Series on Your Watchlist

Especially if you’re a film major, you almost certainly have at least one movie or TV show you’ve wanted to see, but again, haven’t had the time. Now is the perfect opportunity to watch the first episode of Better Call Saul to see what the hype is about or to watch that Best Picture nominee you would like to see before the Oscars ceremony. You can even gather a group of your single friends and make it an event with popcorn and treats.

Have a Social Media Detox

If you’re on social media, you’re probably preparing for the monsoon of couples’ pics from your friends or mutuals. Whether it’s a picnic or a romantic getaway, these will only make you feel worse about being single. Instead of sulking, take a break from your phone. Music and podcasts are allowed, but no social media. You can chip away at the book you’re reading for fun, set a new habit for yourself, or just do it in conjunction with the four previous ideas to make them even more memorable.

While Valentine’s Day is a time for many to wallow in not having someone to spend the day with, it is not healthy to do so. Take a much-needed breather before midterms and do something you enjoy! Romantic relationships are special, and it can be nice to have a special someone to kiss on Valentine’s; however, other relationships, such as family, are so important and should also be appreciated during this celebration of love. Plus the day after, you get discounted chocolates, so if none of the other suggestions help, at least your sweet tooth will be pleased.

Have a Happy Valentine’s!