February 14th is a day for all kinds of love, especially regarding your partner. But what if you don’t have one, are in a long-distance relationship, or want to celebrate others? Rest assured, there are other people you can celebrate with! We’ve got the scoop on alternative ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day, including other people you can celebrate besides your significant other.

Valentine’s Day is traditionally a holiday celebrating the person you love. Whether you’re newlyweds, dating, or on your way to the altar (congratulations!), claiming your partner as your Valentine makes sense. 

However, this day of love is a perfect opportunity to send cards of love, share gifts, and head out for a romantic evening. However, it doesn’t have to be the only day to celebrate someone you are in love with. We have ideas on who else you can honor on February 14th.

Alternative Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day With Others

1. Show friends that you care on Valentine’s Day.

First of all, you can celebrate your friends this Valentine’s Day. Many of us have special friendships with people who may have helped us through tough times or been there to listen when needed.

Of course, you don’t need a particular day to tell someone how much you love them. However, Valentine’s Day could be the ideal time. It’s a way to show you care by sending flowers or writing sentiments on a card. 

Possibly, they’re going through a tough time. Or it could be their first Valentine’s Day without someone special. Sending them a card and a bunch of flowers could be a fantastic boost in confidence.

Your friends can easily be just as important as your partner in your life. Therefore, they are worth celebrating on the day of love.

2. Honor older relatives on February 14th.

You may have received Valentine’s Day cards from your grandparents when you were younger. But as they get older, it may be time to celebrate them instead. Your grandparents and older relatives come from an age of tradition. As a result, showing your love and appreciation for them will not go unnoticed.

You can also think beyond your grandparents and older relatives. Perhaps you have an elderly neighbor or friend. Take the time to help someone elderly who cannot share the day with their loved ones.

They may be separated from their spouse because of hospital stays or because one is in a care home. Conversely, maybe they lost their partner, so Valentine’s Day could be seen as a reminder of a love lost.

Share the day with them by sending a card, a bouquet, or a box of chocolates. Older folks are a set that you can celebrate on Valentine’s Day, which could brighten their day.

Older generations often appreciate the small things. Grandparents and others will enjoy you sharing the love with them on what could be a painful day. 

Another option — with permission, of course — is to contact a local nursing home. There may be a need you can fill for residents who may not have visitors around February 14th. Donate needed items or entertain the residents by reading, singing, or playing games.

3. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with someone who lost a loved one.

Although friends and grandparents need to be reminded they are loved, those who have lost a loved one or partner could be especially hurting when February 14th rolls around. They most certainly would appreciate a loving gesture.

Losing someone you love is not an easy thing to go through. Whether they are recently divorced, have split from a partner, or have experienced the loss of someone special, Valentine’s Day can be a painful reminder of what they don’t have. So, a small gesture can go a long way.

Whether it is a card or a gift for a friend, work colleague, or family member, they will appreciate that you kept them in your thoughts. It is always good to be kind.

Maybe you could take them to lunch or meet for coffee in the morning. Communicating that you care doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive.

4. Enjoy time with the kids in your life on February 14th.

Valentine’s Day is filled with reasons to celebrate with children. The day itself is a symbol of love, and kids enjoy celebrating just about anything. So, it’s an ideal opportunity to do activities with kids. It could be your kids or your nieces and nephews.

Make handmade Valentine cards. Cook Valentine’s Day-inspired foods. Incorporate fun arts and crafts. They will definitely enjoy the one-on-one time and the opportunity to be creative. 

A little card and some Valentine’s Day chocolate are such a treat. Plus, it’s a lovely way to show how much you care about the child.

Children will love the extra attention. You could send them mystery cards and gifts if you want to add an element of surprise. Who knows? Your selfless act could provide a lifetime of fond memories.

5. Everyone is an opportunity to celebrate Valentine’s Day!

On Valentine’s Day, wear a smile, have a good attitude, and wish everyone you see a happy Valentine’s Day. You can perk up the day of the checkout clerk at the grocery store or inspire your Uber driver.

Everyone you encounter is a chance to brighten up February 14th. Plus, this is a great attitude to have every day — not just on Valentine’s Day. And, yes, you can do all of these activities with your partner. Don’t forget about them, of course.

Look beyond the obvious choice of celebrating your significant other and spread the love this year!

Save our alternative ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day!

Of course, you have the love of your life. But working together to celebrate and acknowledge others can be so rewarding. This February 14th, resolve to do something new and different for others!

Photos: Karolina Grabowska, Adrienn, Rodnae, Gary Barnes, Liana Mikah, Anna Tarazevich