Looking for something to do on Valentine’s Day? Here are some activities you can enjoy with friends, by yourself or with someone you love.
For couples...
Use Valentine’s Day to focus on strengthening your relationship and feeling more connected (without breaking the bank).
Recreate your first date.Think back to the first day (or night) you met. What did you do? Where did you go? Make plans to recreate your first date together. If you met your significant other in the summer when the weather was warmer, get creative about how you can adapt your date for the snow.
Make a bucket list.Create a bucket list of things you’d like to do together this year. Consider things you can do now, a few months from now or in the distant future. This can be a great way to get to know your partner better and have fun planning future adventures together.
Find out your love language.Each of us gives and receives affection in different ways. Learning about your love languages can help you and your partner explore ways to make each other feel more connected and loved. It can also help you get to know the other person better. You can find out what your love language is bytaking a free quiz.
For friends…
Celebrating Valentine’s Day with your bros or BFFs can be a fun way to show gratitude for the people that have been by your side through thick and thin.
Go sledding.Take this opportunity to enjoy the snow and head outside for some good old fashioned sledding! The best spots in Boulder include Scott Carpenter Park, Harlow Platts Community Park and Chautauqua (designated areas only).
Set up a secret cupid exchange.If you enjoy white elephant gifts, it may be time to try a secret cupid exchange. The premise is the same: draw names and select a small gift ($5 to $10) for that person. Gifts can be themed or something simple you think your secret cupid would enjoy. Have fun with it and don’t be afraid to be silly!
Enjoy a tasting party or potluck.Treat yourself (and your friends) to a delicious meal by hosting a potluck or tasting party. You can make it extra special by following a Valentine’s Day theme, including heart-shaped foods, red and pink foods only or dishes you each love.
For singles…
Being single on Valentine’s Day can be tough for some people. However, it can also give us an opportunity to treat ourselves and focus on our own needs.
Spend time on self-care.While self-care should be a part of our everyday routine, try to spend time today going all in on activities that make you feel your best. You can get a mani/pedi, have an at-home spa day, spend your afternoon outside or simply enjoy some rest and recovery.
Send valentines to your friends or family.Spread the love and practice gratitude by sending valentines to your friends or family members. You can also get crafty by creating your own cards or opt to send letters instead. Be sure to let the people in your life know that you are thinking of them and that you are grateful for all they have done for you.
Treat yourself to a fancy dinner.Avoid splitting the bill by treating yourself to a nice dinner. You can opt for a new home-cooked recipe or skip a night of dishes by ordering your favorite takeout.
Campus events
I Love Mondays: Candy and Letters to Friends
Join the Center for Student Involvement to pick up free candy and write letters to your friends at the UMC.
Monday, Feb. 13
Cultivating Self-Compassion: Mindful Monday
Join Health Promotion to learn ways to cultivate self-compassion and follow an easy meditation to increase kindness towards yourself and others.
Monday, Feb. 13
Health Huts: Days of Gratitude
Practicing gratitude is good for both your mental and physical health. Who are you feeling grateful for this week? Stop by and write a gratitude post card to someone, and we'll send it anywhere you want!
Tuesday, Feb. 14
Take time out of your week to relax and craft with your peers. DIY Nights are a great way to engage with others while participating in a fun craft project.
Tuesday, Feb. 14
Body Image Awareness at The Rec
Each year the Recreation Center hosts free events and activities throughout February in honor of Body Image Awareness Month. Show yourself some love by participating in this year's events, including nutrition talks, body image workshops, free fitness classes and more.
Community events
Love Bites: A Valentine's Haunted House
Your favorite Denver haunted house is getting a Valentine’s makeover. The same thrills and chills of the Halloween season but with a lover’s twist. Forget dates of Valentine’s Day past to experience something new this year.
February 17 to 19
Looking for love? Got love? Forgone love entirely? Join this interactive drag show at Meow Wolf!
February 14 and 15
Visit the Denver Art Museum (DAM) for free to enjoy art, on-site activities and exhibitions. Tickets may be reserved in advance.
Tuesday, Feb. 14
Botanic Gardens Orchid Showcase
See hundreds of exotic blooms, including rare orchids from the Gardens’ collection. The Showcase is a great idea for a Valentine’s Day activity. Included with admission to the Gardens. The Showcase is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the Orangery.
Saturday, Feb. 18
Follow@CUHealthyBuffson social for more tips, events and activites.
