Five Fun Things to Do if You’re Alone on Valentine’s Day

By Evi Arthur

Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

I’ve always loved Valentine’s Day.

I’m not a naive person, I know that Valentine’s Day is a holiday created with the sole purpose of commodity. Every February 14, companies all over the world target me, a college-aged woman, in order to sell me chocolate, cutesy decorations, lingerie, cards, alcohol, expensive dinners — you name it.

But, in spite of all this, Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite holidays — it’s right up there with Christmas and Arbor Day.

However, as a single person in a friend group of people who are all in relationships (and therefore have plans on Valentine’s Day), my February 14 is wide open.

So, for those of you in my boat, here are a few things to do to get you in the Valentine’s Day spirit, even if you’re just having a chill night at home.

1. Binge Netflix.

You might do this every other day of the week, but at least tonight you’re bingeing with a purpose. In my opinion, there’s nothing more relaxing than a night on the couch with a bowl of popcorn and a Netflix show after a long day. Watched the entirety of your list? Here are my recommendations:

  • New Girl
  • Wine Country
  • Any John Mulaney special
  • Evil Genius
  • Sex Education
  • Umbrella Academy
  • Set it Up
  • She’s Out of my League
  • The Notebook (a Valentine’s Day classic)
  • Sleeping with Other People

That should be enough to get you started. Don’t have Netflix? Check out your local library; it’s free!

2. If you’re starting to get sick of the cold and the barren trees, consider checking out the Chicago Botanic Garden Orchid Show to brighten up your winter.

Tickets are under $20, and they even have an “Orchids After Hours” event with cocktails and food on February 14th.

3. See plays like Roe, Grease, and Fun Home for a discounted price during Chicago Theatre Week.

4. For those of the legal drinking age, check out this fun Princess Bride themed bar, aptly dubbed “As You Wish,” in Lincoln Square.

I’ll bet you’ll have an inconceivably good time!

5. Last but not least, just because you don’t have a valentine for Valentine’s Day, doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself!

Celebrate the happy heart day with a cupcake from Cupcake Wars winner Molly’s Cupcakes, with locations in the South Loop, West Loop, and Lincoln Park. Also consider checking out Sugar Bliss –  both locations are downtown (and within walking distance of the Wabash building) and their cupcakes are the perfect way to celebrate!

Whatever you decide to do this weekend, remember to be safe and have fun!

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