Here’s What You Can Do if Your Flying Solo This Year

If there’s such a thing as a “Valentine’s Day Grinch”, I’d probably say I fit the bill. Don’t get me wrong – I’m all for the celebration of love and romance. But for me, Valentine’s Day has always felt a bit forced, and overly-commercialised.

It’s not just the pressure to splurge on expensive gifts that’s the problem – it’s how marginalising the event feels. If you’re single on Valentine’s Day, it’s easy to feel like a bit of an outsider – particularly if you’re not exactly thrilled about your single status.

The good news? Even if you’re flying solo on Valentine’s Day – you’re not alone. There are literally millions of single people in the UK in similar circumstances. But if that fact alone isn’t enough to cheer you up – don’t worry. Here, I’m going to give you some great ideas for how you can spend your Valentine’s Day in style – no partner necessary.

Single on Valentine’s Day? Here’s Why It’s a Win

Before we dive into some of the great things you can do if you’re single on Valentine’s Day – I wanted to give you a different perspective.

Valentine’s Day is pretty much the one day of the year when everyone seems to lose their mind over cheesy Instagram posts, awkward restaurant dates, and overpriced roses. If you feel like you’re missing out – you might be tempted to sign up for a dating site, or have a look at speed dating.

Obviously – thats fine and nothing wrong with that,  but if you’re looking for a partner just because you don’t want to be alone on Valentine’s Day, you’re probably in it for the wrong reasons.

The reality is that being single on Valentine’s Day can actually be a good thing. Look at this way:

  • You’ll Save a Ton of Money: Single people already suffer with a bunch of financial headaches – so why waste what little cash you do have on someone else? If you’re single, you can skip expensive meals and overly-priced gifts and spend more money on yourself – or the people you love and really care about (like family and friends).
  • No Forced Romance: Even for people in a relationship, Valentine’s Day can be awkward. There’s a lot of pressure to create the “picture perfect” romantic scene. Some partnered-up friends spend forever fretting about what to buy their significant other, then end up saying that their Valentine’s Day celebrations weren’t that great after all.
  • You can Focus on You: Valentine’s Day is about love – but why does it have to be love for someone else? Why not spend the day treating yourself to the love and compassion you deserve (I’ll give you ideas on how to do that in a moment).

Plus, you don’t have to share your food with anyone, force yourself to do something you don’t want to do (like watch a cliché romantic chick-flick), or anything else. You’re free to spend your day however you like. See? It’s not so bad after all.

Single on Valentine’s Day: What You Can Do on the 14th

Ok, so being single on Valentine’s Day isn’t really as sad as it seems – but it can still be draining, particularly when you’re surrounded by pink love hearts, and those amazing “Valentine’s meal deals” on the TV or  in your local restaurants. Whether you’re just looking for a distraction, or you want to reclaim Valentine’s Day for yourself, here are some ideas to get you in the right headspace.

SWAP THE ROMATINC DINNER FOR A FOODIE EXPERIENCE

Booking a romantic restaurant meal for Valentine’s Day might be a tradition for some couples, but let’s face it – it’s expensive, and frustrating. Even finding an available table is like searching for hidden treasure most of the time.

Still, if you love an opportunity to indulge in great food, you can always try booking a table for yourself, or your friends and family. Treat yourself to a fantastic meal at your favourite restaurant, or invite your other single friends to join you.

Alternatively, try cooking or baking: Spend your day or evening cooking a special supper club type meal for you and your friends, or whipping up some heart shaped biscuits or cupcakes you can share with friends, family members and neighbours. See? Even without a partner, Valentine’s Day can still be delicious.

SHARE THE LOVE: GIVE BACK ON VALENTINE’S DAY

I’ve always been a big fan of volunteering – It’s great for learning new skills, developing confidence, and connecting with people – all while filling your heart that feel-good sensation. Giving back can be incredibly rewarding, and it’s a great reminder that love exists in many forms – kindness, generosity, and community.

So, if you’re single on Valentine’s Day, why not:

  • Take the first steps to volunteering for a local charitable organisation: One of the most meaningful ways to spend any day including Valentine’s Day is by helping others. Whether walking dogs at an animal rescue, or spending time with the elderly at a care home, or helping out at a homeless shelter, your presence can make a real difference.
  • Offer to Babysit: Charity starts at home – so why not help out someone you care about? If you know a couple that would love a romantic evening out – offer to babysit and have a fun night in watching Disney movies and eating pizza
    Get Outdoors: Soak Up Some Nature Sitting at home alone when you’re single on Valentine’s Day can make you feel even more isolated. Try swapping the crowded romantic restaurants for some fresh air and lift your spirits – plus it’s great for keeping you healthy.

BOOK AN EXPERIENCE SOLO: COUPLES SHOULDN’T HAVE ALL THE FUN

Just because you don’t have a partner to celebrate with, doesn’t mean you can’t book something fun. If you’re single on Valentine’s Day, you have all the freedom in the world to do exactly what you want with your time – so make the most of it.

  • Buy a ticket for you local Comedy Show or Go To A Movie: I love visiting the cinema solo – it means I don’t have to share the popcorn. Pick a film you’ve been dying to see, grab some snacks, and enjoy a night where you don’t have to worry about someone chatting to you through the film
  • Get Away: Take a solo getaway Take a weekend trip to a new destination or revisit a favourite spot that brings back good memories. Whether you go with a friend or embrace the adventure alone, a change of scenery is the perfect way to celebrate your independence.

SPEND TIME WITH PEOPLE: LOVE ISNT JUST ROMANTIC 

It’s easy to isolate yourself when you’re single on Valentine’s Day – but it’s important to remember that there’s actually love all around you. Why not spend some time sharing meaningful moments with someone other than a partner?

  • Host A Game Night with Friends: Gather your crew for a competitive board game night – Monopoly, Uno, Cluedo, or even some classic video games. The only heartbreak you’ll experience is losing to your best mate in a ruthless game of Scrabble.
  • Savor a Mate Date: Ask one of your friends (or multiple) to join you for a bottomless brunch, afternoon tea, or a meal. You can even do something active, like going for a bicycle ride together if you’re feeling some pent-up energy.

SHOW SOME SELF LOVE: HAVE A ‘LOOK AFTER YOURSELF’ DAY 

One of the best ways to rework your vision of Valentine’s Day when you’re single is to look at it as a reminder to look after yourself.

Stay away from social media. Doom-scrolling through sappy posts or checking in on what your ex is doing isn’t going to make you feel better – it’s just going to add to your heartache.

But do prioritise yourself with a self care night with a warm bath or Curl up with Your Favourite Book Or Film: Re-read the book you love the most, or watch the movie that always makes you smile.

Single on Valentine’s Day? Do Whatever You Like

At the end of the day, the best part about being single on Valentine’s Day is the freedom to do exactly what you want – no compromises, no expectations, just you doing you. Whether you choose to spend the day relaxing with self-care, getting creative, going on an adventure, or having fun with friends, the most important thing is that you enjoy yourself.

There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate. Want to treat yourself to a fancy dinner? Go for it. Prefer to binge-watch your favourite TV series in pyjamas? That sounds perfect too. Valentine’s Day might be wrapped in commercialism, but you don’t have to fall into the trap of spending big just to feel good.

The best kind of love – the one that lasts a lifetime – is the love you give yourself.

So, whether you ignore Valentine’s Day completely or turn it into your own personal celebration, embrace the day on your own terms. Single doesn’t mean missing out – it means having the power to make the day whatever you want it to be. And that’s something worth celebrating.