Valentine’s Day Cheap Date Ideas – For Singles

This year Valentine’s Day is a little different. And, I’m not talking about being single and still having fun—we all know that’s the norm these days, thanks to Sex and the City and Bridget Jones. This year, we solo artists have bigger things to worry about then what we’re going to do without a Valentine. With the recession all around us, the big question on everyone’s mind is where is next month’s rent check going to come from?! And whether you’re single or in a relationship, it’s not a very romantic thought, eh?

If you’re happily taken, we’ve already got you covered with our Valentine’s Cheap Date Ideas. Today, we’re going to suggest some great ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day if you’re single AND on a budget.

Happy Hour
Make plans for an after-work get together with your single friends over Happy Hour. You can expect to save a lot on half-price drinks and appetizers. Just be prepared to watch your wallet that evening. Happy Hours are a gateway event—and if you’re single, who knows where the night will end!

Dessert
Let your friends go home and do their thing—go to the gym, feed their dog, etc. Then, meet up at a trendy coffee shop in the neighborhood for a post-dinner dessert and port wine. I did this once with a bunch of my friends and it was one of my most memorable Valentine’s Day celebrations—even over the ones I’ve had with ex-boyfriends. Don’t underestimate the power of your friends, especially on a potentially lonely night.

Secret Valentine
Do a gift-trade with your friends, so basically, each person in your circle of friends will draw names and then buy a gift just for the person whose name they drew. You can make the budget stay under $20 so everyone gets a nice little token of love and the savings.

Soak in the Night
Okay, so maybe you don’t even need the company of your friends on Valentine’s Day. Maybe a relaxing night in is all you’ve been craving. Try planning a nice little bubble bath for yourself. You can even set a nice mood for yourself with some candlelight and roses. Talk about a wonderful way to celebrate solitude!

Buy Yourself Flowers
How often do you do this for yourself? Unless you’re a domestic goddess, I can bet the answer is almost never. Well, today is a great reason to treat yourself. A dozen roses or a beautiful bouquet can easily cost under $40, and the bonus perk? They’ll last way longer than one day.