I wanted to compile a list of easy and inexpensive ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day, especially with older kids. Steve and I don’t typically do much. This year we went out to a nice dinner prior to the day, and that’s always good enough for us! We’re not huge gift givers as we would rather spend our money on our home or on travel. I do think it’s fun to incorporate a few fun things around the house though, even as our kids are getting older!
Scatter Some Heart Balloons
A few years ago I started putting heart balloons in our home the week leading up to Valentine’s Day. Dollar Tree sells balloons for $1 each, so you can fill up your space for not a lot of money! They make such a fun impact for the month of February.
I also found this XOXO balloon in the Target Dollar Spot one year. If you hang on to it, you can blow it up year after year!
KC Heart Mural
If you live in Kansas City, taking some photos next to this Charlie Hustle heart mural would be fun! I am an Instagrammer, so I love a good photo op!
Valentine Pretzel Bites
These are so easy to make and customize for different holidays/occasions! This recipe makes a good amount, so you could also package them up in cute Valentine bags and deliver to neighbors, teachers, etc!
Valentine Protein Bites
You can basically turn anything you normally make into something festive by adding pink and red! Instead of adding chocolate chips, just add M&Ms to your favorite protein bite recipe!
Love Notes
I’ve been putting little love notes on my kid’s doors for Valentine’s Day for years. I know they look forward to it even if they wouldn’t admit it! Who doesn’t love being told how awesome you are?! You can either get heart-shaped crafts at the dollar store or simply cut your own. Adhere to the door with Washi tape for easy removal!
Heart-Shaped Cinnamon Rolls
This could not be easier! Using store-bought cinnamon rolls, simply unroll and then roll back up bringing both sides into each other. Shape into a heart and bake according to package instructions. Top with icing and heart-shaped or festive colored sprinkles!
Set Up a Festive Meal to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
It’s fun to switch things up at mealtime! Set your dining room table all festive and fancy and eat dinner in there. Use Valentine plates, napkins, paper straws, flowers, etc. Make a “red” dinner or purchase some heart-shaped pasta, anything to make it seem special! This can also go for breakfast or lunch with your favorite foods! Maybe some heart shaped donuts and strawberry milk. The possibilities are endless!
Heart-Shaped Pancakes
These are so simple to make! Add a dusting of powdered sugar and strawberries to garnish!
Decorate A Cake to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
One year, some friends and I took a cake decorating class! It was so much fun! I know with Covid, many bakeries are offering virtual cake decorating classes. This could be fun to do as a family or with a small group of friends! Or, simply bake something from scratch at your own home and decorate for Valentine’s Day! I say step away and let the kids get messy and be creative! It’s all about the process!
Add Fresh Flowers
This is my favorite thing to do all year long! Bring some freshness to your space in the dead of winter by adding some bright colored flowers! I found some eucalyptus at Trader Joe’s this year that had heart-shaped leaves!
Wear Something Festive to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
Find something festive to wear that you would also wear at other times of the year. Think subtle! If you’re local to Kansas City, Charlie Hustle apparel has perfect apparel to celebrate Valentine’s Day! Or this pink/red combo from Pink Dinosaur Boutique.
There are so many easy and inexpensive ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day! I think everyone in the house appreciates a festive touch and taking a little time to make things special! XO
Additional Valentine Posts
DIY Tulip Wreath, 2 Ingredient Fruit Dip, DIY Feather Wreath, Ring Pop Gem Valentines, S’mores Valentines, Superhero Valentines, Lego Valentines