Where and How to Spend Valentine’s Day

People often think Valentine’s Day requires high-end restaurants, massive bouquets, and grand, expensive gestures. But as we step into 2026, the way we celebrate has evolved. We now crave authenticity over aesthetics and human connection over generic surprises we usually see in our feeds.

Whether you are in a long-term relationship, celebrating with family and friends, or enjoying your own company, the most memorable way to spend this day isn't measured by a price tag but is found in shared experiences.

For Couples: Partnership over Performance

Grand gestures can often feel performative. Instead of a stiff five-course meal, try activities that foster mutual discovery and strengthen your partnership.

Memory Lane Walks: My partner and I, we visited the spot of our first date or the place that served as a turning point in our relationship. It’s a core memory for us and I think you’d love it just as much. You can go grab a coffee, reminisce about that day, and "time travel" through your shared history. Who knows? Maybe this is the way to spark things up again for both of you.

The Kitchen Co-Love: When food is your love language, you can try to head to the grocery store with a strict budget and zero plans. Pick ingredients for a dish you both love and recreate it together. The goal isn't a Michelin-star meal; it’s the laughter and teamwork in the kitchen.

Shared Skill-Building: A cute little bonding time that I usually see on TikTok is when they try pottery, baking, or painting workshops with their partners. This gives us an idea that learning something new together creates a fresh "memory bond" that lasts much longer than flowers.

For Friends: Celebrating Your "Day Ones"

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to honor platonic love. It’s a chance to celebrate the people who keep your life running.

The "Inside Joke" Gift Exchange: Think of it as "Secret Santa," but with a twist. Set a budget (e.g., under ₱500) and buy something that represents an inside joke or a shared memory. It removes financial pressure and focuses on how well you truly know each other.

The Ultimate Cozy Marathon: My friends and I love to watch movies but knowing how broke we are, we decided that we’re skipping the crowded cinemas. It’s better if we grab some pizza, chicken wings, boba tea, and just host a movie marathon in our pajamas. It’s a low-stress way to bond with your best friends too. 

Healing Your Inner Child: Writing these things to do for Valentine’s, it brought back so many core memories of being a kid and having zero worries at the playground with my friends. Now that we’re older, we should challenge ourselves to be more adventurous like trying an escape room, a trampoline park, or whatever you think is fun. Because these playful, "childish" activities are a great way to celebrate love by being active and having pure fun.

For the Solo Adventurer: The Art of Self-Dating

In this era, being solo on Valentine’s Day isn't a "lack" of love but rather an opportunity for intentional self-care. These are the things I learned from a friend: 

JOMO (Joy of Missing Out): It’s okay to turn off your phone and reclaim your me-time. Do that one thing you’ve been "too busy" for, like building a Lego set, reading that book while laying in bed, or enjoying a pamper day at home.

Solo Museum Date: Wander through a gallery at your own pace. You don’t have to compromise on which exhibit to see next. Take your time, snap your photos, and soak in the inspiration.

Letters to the Future: This Valentine’s day is not about other people, but rather it’s about letting yourself feel the love that you give to others. Write a letter to your future self. Document your small wins, the obstacles you’ve overcome, tell them how loved they are and remind them of the little things that currently bring you joy.

For Families: Building Love Together

Love is first learned at home, and it is what I was raised to believe. Valentine’s Day is a chance to teach children that love is an action, not just a greeting card.

The Family Memory Jar: Decorate a jar and have everyone write down their favorite family moments or things they appreciate about one another. Read them aloud over dinner. 

Community Kindness: Shift the mindset from "What will I get?" to "What can I give?". I grew up in a church where we spend the day volunteering or donating to our local community center. Here, we teach the kids to spread love and recognize that small acts of service are the loudest forms of affection.

In an ever-changing world, our greatest luxury is undivided attention. This Valentine’s Day, the most valuable thing you can do is be present. Turn off your phone, look at the people around you, and appreciate the moment. Even without a grand celebration, it is our shared experiences that make us feel truly connected.

Article: Trisha Sorsano

Graphics: Justine Ceniza