Are you single on Valentine’s Day or any day? Looking for advice on how to spend Valentine’s Day alone?
There really is no other holiday like Valentine’s Day.
You either celebrate it or you don’t, based on your relationship status. No other holiday operates on that kind of requirement, which makes Valentine’s Day one of the most polarizing and anxiety-inducing holidays ever.
If you’re going to spend Valentine’s Day alone this year, don’t fret.
In America, you and almost half of the adult population are single on Valentine’s Day, and that number keeps growing.
Despite this, it’s still easy to fall into the trap of feeling isolated and insignificant during this time of the year.
How could we not? We’ve been conditioned to care about Valentine’s Day since we were children.
There are actually a lot of reasons to not feel down about being single on Valentine’s Day.
Whether you’re fresh on the market, or have been riding solo for a long time, I’ll tell you how to spend Valentine’s Day single and reshape your idea of what Valentine’s Day is (hint: it’s not just about romantic relationships!).
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Today’s Valentine’s Day is All About Business
The real history of Valentine’s Day is actually pretty dark. It involved a lot of alcohol, public nudity, and animal and human sacrifices. Yikes.
After almost two millennia of muddying and romanticizing its origins, Valentine’s Day turned into something that could be marketable. By 1913, Hallmark Cards began mass-producing valentines, and the rest is history.
Being single as an adult has its obvious benefits. It’s fun and freeing. We’re even starting to see more female heroes reject the desire to find love and celebrate their happiness and individuality in media.
This concept holds true for most of the year, except when winter approaches and being single on Valentine’s Day turns into a taboo.
As the weather gets colder, the desire to stay indoors increases. Being stuck indoors sounds much better with a mate, and thus a lot of quality time for couples happens during the winter. And I mean serious quality time. Most babies are conceived during the winter months for this very reason.
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Singles can still enjoy the early parts of winter because holidays such as Christmas and New Year’s Eve focuses on spending time with family and friends. It’s when we jump into the new year that things start to get weird.
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The entire concept of feeling alone and insignificant during this time is crafted by companies that want to make you feel bad for being single on Valentine’s Day.
Think about it as being one more day for companies to squeeze some extra money out of you. And that’s all Valentine’s Day is, really.
Today, it has less to do with spending time with your significant other and more about proving your love by way of gifts.
I’m not saying that you should protest and not buy anything this season. In fact, I explain why you should consider taking advantage of this later on.
Let Couples Celebrate Their One Holiday in Peace
Another reason why you shouldn’t feel bad about being single on Valentine’s Day is that it simply wasn’t made for you.
Despite its crazy backstory, Valentine’s Day was regarded as a time of increased fertility. Centuries ago, when infant mortality rates were high and life expectancy was low, these celebrations were put in place to increase morale and hopefully birth more children. People back then were also much more likely to be married at an earlier age too.
Almost all societies had put in place some sort of “fertility festival.” Then, Valentine’s Day was more relevant to the general population of adults. Today, we don’t really have a need for any of that. At face value, if you’re single, would you really want to join in and increase your fertility? What about the modern changes to Valentine’s Day?
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If you’re upset that you’re single on Valentine’s Day, are you upset about it any other time of the year? I’ve already touched on marketing but think about it this way.
Holidays without any real historical significance have always confused me. Why make one day a “special” day to celebrate our loved ones? Shouldn’t we be doing that as often as we can?
For some, Valentine’s Day may be the only day that a lot of people can properly give the affection their loved one deserves.
If saving it all for one day isn’t your style, then Valentine’s Day shouldn’t matter much at all.
You’re Not the Only One Single on Valentine’s Day
More and more people are embracing #teamsingle and loving it. The largest population of single people are those that have never been married.
One thing that I find so funny is that singles can still celebrate February 14th (and even February 15th) with Singles Awareness Day. If you hate Valentine’s Day there are actually multiple alternative holidays to Valentine’s Day you can love and celebrate – that are all about being single!
Singles Awareness Day is exactly what it sounds like and it’s recognized all over the world. This counter-Valentine’s celebration can be considered the icing on the cake if you plan on getting through Valentine’s Day alone. Depending on where you are, there may even be sponsored singles’ events and opportunities to travel and volunteer.
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Celebrate being single on Valentine’s Day, elementary school-style, by handing out valentines and candies to your adult friends. Or, celebrate Singles Awareness Day with them and take them out to a nice dinner or party. Show them that you love and care about them too!
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If you’re going to take advantage of the fact that everyone you know will be busy that day, spend it alone doing exactly what you want. You can also take matters into your own hands by treating yourself to gifts. Valentine’s Day is all about showing appreciation for someone you love, so why not let it be you?
Don’t let the concept of Valentine’s Day get you down when you can celebrate it in any other way you want to. My birthday is on February 15th, so at the very least you can celebrate my birthday with me!
Take Advantage of Valentine’s Day Sales
Remember when I said that Valentine’s Day is all about the $$$$? Take advantage of that.
Whether you’re single on Valentine’s Day or not, we all love a good sale. Valentine’s Day is a great time to buy pretty and feminine gifts for yourself at steep discounts. Typical Valentine’s Day gifts such as flowers, jewelry, personalized gifts, photography, and more go on sale leading up to the day.
You can still benefit even after Valentine’s Day is over with (the unofficial) National Discounted Chocolate Day.
Planning on redecorating your home? All things pink and red will be on sale as well.
Blush pink and millennial pink are extremely popular right now, so if you want to join in on this trend, post-Valentine’s Day may be your chance.
Embrace Being Single Any Day by Loving Yourself
I may have just gone over how to treat yourself this Valentine’s Day, but I want to emphasize that there’s really a lot more than you can do for yourself.
A lot of what makes Valentine’s Day difficult for people is that they don’t recognize their own worth as a single, beautiful human being. You have to eliminate that stigma that you are only as valuable as your relationship status.
Take a stand and vow to never let Valentine’s Day make you feel sad ever again. Say it with me, “I vow to recognize my own self-worth and to not let Valentine’s Day get me down.”
You should use this time to learn how to love yourself unconditionally because you deserve it! There is no one else out there like you. Without you, the world would be a much different place.
You’ve positively made an impact on so many people’s lives. Not your relationship status. Not your plans for Valentine’s Day. You.
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I understand that if you went through a particularly hard break up right before Valentine’s Day, it may be a little bit harder to love yourself and feel confident. I understand that. Though, you shouldn’t beat yourself up over the fact that you’re single. There’s nothing wrong with you if you couldn’t make a relationship work.
You’re better off, and what kind of strong person would you be if you let that hang over your head?
No matter what you’re thinking or how you feel about yourself, you are enough. You are so much more than your relationship status.
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Remember, Valentine’s Day is Just One Day
Lastly, there is no need to be so stressed out over this day! Compared to other holidays, like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, Valentine’s Day gets very little promotion. Sure, stores become pinker and move the candy to the front aisles, but I barely notice the relationship aspects leading up to it anymore.
Unless you were planning on being the third wheel to your coupled-up friends, this day should be like any other day.
If you’re single on Valentine’s Day, you don’t need to hide in the shadows of others. You don’t need to be in a relationship to enjoy life or make the most out of the day.
Get Self-Love Quotes for Valentine’s Day
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To recap, we’ve covered:
- The crazy history behind Valentine’s Day.
- Why you probably shouldn’t feel bad about missing a “fertility celebration.”
- How you’re never going to be alone with Singles Awareness Day.
- Great sales to get you out of the mid-winter blues.
- That you should treat yourself because you love yourself.
- You need to erase the stigma that you aren’t enough.
So have fun if you’re single on Valentine’s Day. Don’t stress if you’re single.
Take this time to show love to your friends and family, and most importantly, yourself this Valentine’s season.
Are you single on February 14th? Feeling lonely on Valentine's Day? Don't! It's time to EMBRACE flying solo this Valentine's. And here's why! #ValentinesDay #GalentinesDay #Valentine
How are you celebrating being single on Valentine’s Day?
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Last Updated on January 17, 2025
Megan Nichole | The LaziMILLENNIAL Movement says
Leslie, really enjoyed this post! So glad it provides some positive perspective for single folks on V-day!
Leslie | Author says
Thank you!!!!!! Single or in a relationship, I never really cared for Valentine’s Day because my birthday falls the day after. The only thing I ever really get out of it is the discounted candy!
Melanie says
I’m married, but I am still not really a fan of Valentine’s Day. It is way too commercialized with too much pressure! I had much rather celebrate our relationship throughout the year.
Leslie | Author says
Yes, Valentine’s Day has definitely evolved into a way to squeeze more money out of already cash-strapped people from the holiday season! I can imagine the unneeded stress people endure during this time because of the stigma of needing to “prove your love.”
Reesa Lewandowski says
Personally, I never cared much for Valentine’s Day. My husband and I don’t really do anything. I always felt like I don’t need a day for someone to tell me to show love.
Leslie | Author says
That’s a natural reaction! I agree. There isn’t much benefit to saving all of your love for just one day, is there?
Lisa says
This is a great post. I must say my husband and I don’t celebrate Valentine’s day anymore and I’m ok with it. I think your post will resonate well with those who are single. We celebrate year round by just laughing, enjoying life and showing each other love. Don’t need a special day for that.
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! Heck, I’m in a relationship and I’ve never really taken it seriously. Celebrating year round is the way to go!
GiGi Eats says
I was single on Valentine’s Day up until 2014 (well I guess I “met” my now husband on Feb 17th 2014, ha sooo yeah)…. And now I have my husband who is the best thing that’s happen to me thus far in life. That being said, we don’t celebrate this hallmark holiday because well, we should show appreciation for one another every day, no?
Leslie | Author says
Absolutely. Consistent love and appreciation will always trump Valentine’s Day in my opinion. Who would want to endure a relationship that only celebrated love once a year? I’ll pass!
Melissa Dixon says
I have never been one to celebrate the day but we will go out or my husband cooks usually. I never really got into it but when I was single I think it bothered me more. Now 15 years and a kid later, I long for the days of being alone. lol Just kidding!
Leslie | Author says
Haha absolutely. Valentine’s Day has been marketed to make younger, single people feel bad for over a century now. Once you unveil the true meaning behind today’s Valentine’s Day, it’s a little easier to not be phased by it.
Nikki says
I spent many years as a single on Valentine’s Day. Being a single mom made it a little easier, though. I put all the focus on my son and did things with him. After all, the love of a mom for her child (and vice versa) is better than all the romantic love in the world, right? I’ve never really been a big Valentine’s Day fan, anyway. Too much pressure to be all romantic. While I love romance in books and movies, in real life I’m just not that sappy, lol.
Leslie | Author says
Sometimes you need to just celebrate things in your own way! As it stands, Valentine’s Day doesn’t apply to half of the U.S. adult population. Showing love to yourself, friends, and family is a perfectly good alternative (and arguably better)!
DD´s blog says
I’m engaged, but it’s not big deal for us that Valentine’s Day.. It’s more important to love each other every day .. good post
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! I agree. Save the stress of needing to adhere to Valentine’s Day by giving consistent love the rest of the year.
Brit says
I’m working on a post that somewhat similar to this one! This was a great read, and just very well put together. Love the placement of everything, too. Nothing like #selflove…
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! I’m glad to see that people aren’t afraid to express their “anti-Valentine’s Day” opinions. I’ll be on the lookout for when the post drops!
Chetna says
Girl great post! I am single because I want to focus on myself and work on myself at the moment. I love the whole Single Awareness Day ;] #teamsingle and buying cute feminine gifts for yourself. Self-love is very important! Great post and message =]
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! I’m a huge proponent for self love and I’m glad that more people are spending their Valentine’s Day doing exactly that. I love the idea of Singles Awareness Day as well! It’s such a great idea.
Angel Lou says
I’m single but I already have someone in my heart and you know just waiting for a right time. But I’ve been single for years now. Being single isn’t that bad. Least headache I think lol. I love this post.
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! Good for you to not rush into something for the sake of being in a relationship. The right time will definitely come.
Zoi says
Valentine’s day history was interesting. I agree that now Valentine’s day is all about marketing and consumerism. I only celebrated Valentines when I was a teenager, now it’s not important for me anymore, we don’t need a special day to show how much we love each other. Great post!
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! I totally agree. I prefer to spread the love equally throughout the year instead of anticipating this one day. Celebrating Valentine’s Day when I was younger definitely beats out celebrating it as an adult.
Censie Sawyer says
Great information. I can imagine it can be difficult for some. I have a group of girl friends that are not married and they always get together for a girls night out on Valentines day. Even though I am married I join them. 😉 It is fun!
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! I really like the idea of having a girl’s night on Valentine’s Day. Celebrating friends seems like a much better holiday anyway. Showing love to your significant other comes daily. Girls’ Nights are something we look forward to for a reason!
Elizabeth O says
This year I am choosing love and going with spreading Valentines wishes to everyone I love in my life; children, friends, even my cat! Being single doesn’t mean you cant spread a little love too 🙂 I really enjoyed your post
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! I love your idea of spreading the love, and it makes me even happier that you’re including your cat! If you have love to give then always choose to give. I already know your loved ones will appreciate your positive spirit this holiday!
Marie Gizelle says
Remember: love is never absent in your life, you are not really single – there are a lot of those who love you who have surrounded you with well, love. And true, reason I don’t do valentine’s day, it’s history is one of what 2 Corinthians 6:17 warns us of.
You do you! 🙂
Leslie | Author says
Definitely. Love is always around us, no matter how isolated we may feel. That is such a great outlook on life.
Evelyn says
Love the insights and wonderful points you have me in this post. Although I am not now, I have been single for many years and have learned to love my own company. Valentine’s Day is about celebrating love, beginning with self-love.💗
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! You absolutely need to learn how to love yourself before you can give love to someone else. I think Valentine’s Day is a perfect time to practice that for anyone!
Dia Darling says
I’m single this Valentine’s Day. LOL Last year I got dumped the day before and was the only women in my office who didn’t get sent flowers. This year I’m don’t even have expectations lol just going to go to work and do what I’d do on any other Wednesday lol
Leslie | Author says
Lol who does that???? You’re definitely better off. Be your own Valentine this year and do something special for yourself!
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! Knowing that this made you feel good makes me feel good!
Leslie | Author says
Thank you!
GiGi Eats says
Being single on Valentine’s Day shouldn’t make people sad. People should think, this is just one Valentine’s Day closer to being with the person I will forever be with! And forever is a strong word, so… Enjoy your YOU TIME when you can! LOL!
Leslie | Author says
That’s great advice, Gigi! I hope that you had a great Valentine’s Day!
NYC Single Mom says
I am single and I love your quotes. I always try to treat myself on Valentine’s Day. Why not!! Anyway I know plenty of married couples who how shall I say do not celebrate the day. They work!
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! I hope that this Valentine’s Day was no different! Treat yourself every Valentine’s Day!
Heather says
Excellent tips! With a wave of “Galentines” and so many other loved ones to celebrate on Valentine’s Day, it’s really more about feeling loved and valued than just a couple day. I’ve been married for 12 years and now with two children at home, for us Valentine’s Day is honestly going to be more about celebrating our daughters.
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! I love that Valentine’s Day has evolved into showing love to more than just your significant other. I hope you had a great Valentine’s Day!
Adrienne says
When I was single, I used to go out to dinner with girlfriends or with a guy friend on Valentine’s Day. I think society makes way too big of a deal about Valentine’s Day. It seems like the end of the world when you’re single and the day rolls around, but now that I’m married, I don’t really think too much about it. lol
Leslie | Author says
Absolutely. Valentine’s Day has blown up into this huge “spend spend spend” day. Society wants to make you feel bad for being single on this day for that very reason. I hope you had a great Valentine’s Day!
Censie Sawyer says
So i am married but I still go out with my girlfriends on Valentines. It has been a tradition for us for years – single or married. I love it.
Leslie | Author says
That sounds like a great tradition. Your girlfriends need love too! I hope that you had a great Valentine’s Day.
meeta says
Love your positive quotes. I have to admit that although I am married often spend Valentine’s Day with girlfriends. Kind of a girl’s night out away from the boys. LOL!
Leslie | Author says
Yep, that’s a perfectly acceptable way to spend Valentine’s Day! Spending it with girlfriends seems to be a popular choice these days. I hope that you had a great Valentine’s Day!
Aileen Adalid says
This is a lovely post! I guess in the first place though, there’s nothing really wrong with being taken or being single — the bottom line is that you’re happy with where you are in your life right now 😀 That’s all that matters!
Leslie | Author says
Thank you! You’re absolutely right. We no longer need to spend Valentine’s Day in this narrow view anymore. People can celebrate however they want, whether or not they’re single. I hope that you had a great Valentine’s Day!
Samara says
I know I’m late to the party but this is a self love article that needs to be circulated year round. Great read!
Nadalie Bardo says
Hey Samara,
Not at all! I so agree with you, this is a message we need to hear all year round. Glad you found it!
Mimi says
I’m probably going to the theater with my mom to watch Mamma Mia so I’m pretty happy being single
It's All You Boo says
Mamma Mia with Mama is perfect! Happy Valentine’s Day!
Heather Castillo says
It’s been about 20 years since I’ve been single on Valentines Day. I remember that my girl friends and I used to plan fun things to do together.
It's All You Boo says
It’s never sad being single on Valentine’s Day… Happy Valentine’s Day, Heather!
Jen @ JENRON DESIGNS says
I love that you embraced this idea for Valentines Day, it does not always have to be about couples. Love can be about all types of love, self love world love love is love.
It's All You Boo says
Hi Jen!
True! Love is Love and not just for couples! Happy Valentine’s Day!
Bellab says
oh this such a great blog! thanks for sharing this. I love doing this by yourself it so good fro growth
It's All You Boo says
I’m happy you love this post, Bellab! Happy Valentine’s Day!
Tisha says
I’ve been single for 6 years, definitely used to being alone on Valentines day! But this definitely puts a few things in perspective for those who are newly single or really lonely
It's All You Boo says
Hi Tisha,
Once you get used to it and enjoy the company of friends you will not be lonely anymore. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Melissa Cushing says
I just love this and love the idea of embracing being single on Valentine’s Day….. being single for some time is a good thing. Thank you I for sharing and loving those quotes!
It's All You Boo says
Being single gives us more time to love ourselves and be the best version of us when the right time comes! Happy Valentine’s Day!
emman damian says
It’s fun being single during Valentine’s Day! You can mingle a lot with a tons of people! So fun!
It's All You Boo says
Happy Valentine’s Day, Emman! Enjoy Valentine’s!