Valentine’s Day Ideas for Retirees

You might think that Valentine’s Day is reserved for couples and kids, but you’d be wrong! There are plenty of things you can do to celebrate (or avoid) the day. Retirees, especially, have extra time to do as they please. Spread the love to your partner, friends, family, or simply yourself!

About Valentine’s Day

Saint Valentine’s Day was a feast day in the Catholic religion, added to the calendar around 500 AD. The day was commemorated for martyred saints named Valentine. Differing legends celebrate three different saints.

Since then, Valentine’s Day has become a day for celebrating love. Whether you feel it’s too commercialized or not, there’s still plenty of ways to celebrate this day that don’t require the traditional flowers and chocolate.

Here are some ideas of how to celebrate on February 14:

With your partner:

• Go on a weekend getaway
• Re-create your first date
• Watch a romantic movie
• Take a cooking class together
• Relax at a spa or health club
• Listen to your old record collection
• Skip the crowd and get a lunch reservation instead

With family & friends:

• Play Valentine Bingo
• Bake cookies
• Make-your-own Valentines for each other
• Complete a Valentine-themed puzzle
• Volunteer
• Craft decorations (chain garlands and faux stained glass are popular!)
• Go to an art museum
• Have a game day (card games, board games, any games!)

With yourself:

• Turn off your cell phone and unwind
• Have a spa day
• Watch your favorite movies
• Cook your favorite meal
• Indulge in a delicious treat
• Throw yourself a dance party