10 Date Night In Ideas for valentines day

It’s pretty likely that most of us won’t be getting dolled up for a fancy steak dinner this Valentines Day. So with pajamas (cute heart ones of course) as the attire, here are 10 ideas that you and your partner can do at home for a memorable Valentines celebration!

1. Pasta Making

Have you ever made pasta from scratch before? It’s quite the process! So if you’re going to be in the kitchen all night cooking together, make it an experience! About a year ago, I created a “trip to Italy at home” date night for Brian and I. I set the tone with Italian music, bought us new aprons, had wine and antipasti to enjoy while we made the pasta- it was seriously one of the best at home dates we’ve had!

Not feeling Italian? Try another cuisine! Whatever you pick, just go all out with the theme to really “transport” yourselves to another world for the night!

2. Scavenger Hunt

Take your partner on a fun adventure in your own home by leaving them clues all around the house. From the washing machine to the freezer to the back of the toaster- even the backyard (weather permitting)- nothing is off limits! Have a cute stuffed animal or box of chocolates waiting for them at the end. It’ll be fun to watch them go a little goose hunt!

3. Mixology Night

A few days before Valentines, Google some new cocktail recipes to try out! At the store, grab everything you’ll need including liqueurs, mixers, and garnishes. I suggest trying 2-4 recipes, some more in your taste palette and some more in your partners. Who knows, you might find a new drink you both love!

If hard liquor isn’t your thing, you could always pick up a variety of wine and set up a wine flight! It’ll be a private little wine tasting, just the two of you.

4. Heart Shaped Everything

And I mean everything- challenge yourselves to turn as many food items into the shape of a heart as possible. I recently saw someone make hamburger buns from scratch and the patties into hearts! The options are endless and it’ll provide some laughs while entertaining you both for a while!

5. A New Board Game

I’m sure we’ve all played our share of games this past year, but start looking now for one you two haven’t played together. There are endless options on Amazon or you could borrow one from a neighbor. Or switch things up and go virtual- they now have Monopoly in the PlayStation store, putting a fun spin on a classic!

6. Charcuterie

I think you all know my love for charcuterie boards by now ☺️. But don’t feel like you need to make it fancy! Pick out your favorite meats, cheeses, and crackers then arrange them nicely on a board. It’s the arrangement and way you eat the meal that’s fun and encourages conversation while nibbling. It can also be eaten while enjoying that new board game 😉.

7. Fondue Night

Probably one of the most romantic food options out there, fondue is always a winner. Whether you opt for cheese or chocolate (or both!), top off the experience with a bunch of candles. Candlelit dinner with melty cheese? Yes please! 😋

8. Build A Fort

Let your inner child out with this one! Brian and I have built at least 6 forts in our 3.5 years together and it always makes for a fun night! Start by gathering your couch and other large cushions on the floor, then pile on the blankets and extra pillows, leaving your sheets and lightest blankets to build the the “roof” and walls. Chairs with tall backs are great for draping the blankets across- we’ve even been known to use our step ladder! 😆 Just get creative and have fun with it. We like to keep the “door” side open to the TV so we can cuddle up and watch movies 🥰. Bonus points if you get some twinkle lights in there!

9. Brunch

Who says Valentines festivities need to take place at night? Brunch is personally one of my favorite meals! I certainly don’t think you could go wrong with surprising your partner with bacon, eggs, waffles, and mimosas- don’t forget the flowers!

10. Take a Drive [Down Memory Lane]

Okay so this one isn’t 100% “date night in,” but it’s still Covid friendly! Hop in the car and drive around town visiting spots that are special to your relationship - where you had your first date, most memorable meals together, maybe your most fun activity. Just stop at each spot and talk about what you remember and how much fun you had together!

You could end the car ride by placing a “pick up” order from a favorite restaurant (they could sure use your business right now!) and taking it back to your house to enjoy while watching a movie marathon.

I think biggest key to a successful Valentines date in is to just have something planned out. Otherwise you’ll find yourselves flopped in front of the TV, browsing Netflix like every other night. Whichever activity you choose, I hope it’s a special experience that brings you and your partner closer together! 🥰 Happy Valentines Day! 💕