February 14th – a day of love, candy hearts, and valentine’s cards. At surface level, the holiday appears to be a “Hallmark Holiday” for romantic relationships, but the day is truly an opportunity to spread love within our community. We’re sharing out favorite ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day, and we look forward to seeing how our participants celebrate Valentine’s Day traditions.

Write cards

Brighten someone’s day with a hand-written note. American children grew-up with themed boxed Valentine’s like junk food and jokes. In modern times, new types of valentine’s have emerged such as digital download cards and e-cards. Of course, the most treasured cards are the ones we create ourselves. Spread the love this Valentine’s Day by passing out Valentine’s Day cards and letting people know why you appreciate them. Valentines aren’t just for romantic relationships – they’re to give to everyone from parents to friends to co-workers. 

Give back

Show your community you care this Valentine’s Day by giving back. There are so many ways to be involved! In the spirit of the holiday, deliver valentines to hospitalized children, nursing homes, and local community members, like the mailman, grocery store clerk, and healthcare staff. Plan a “do-good Valentine’s Day date” with your crush, co-workers, or friends where you run in a Valentine’s Day 5k, serve meals at a homeless shelter, build a home with Habitat for Humanity, plant a tree, or pick up trash in your neighborhood. Volunteering is a cornerstone of American society; engaging with volunteerism exemplifies American values, connects you with your community, and proves that one person, one act of kindness can make all the difference. 

Take a tour of city

Fall in love with your American city by taking a tour to learn about the history and culture that surrounds you. There are incredible city tours across America from an architectural tour in Louisville, Kentucky to a maritime history sailing tour in Baltimore, Maryland to a swamp tour in Orlando, Florida. Alternatively, research local history online, at a local library, or at a visitor’s information center. Travel to a local area you have yet to visit and read about the history and culture you’ve found. Your American home will always hold a special place in your heart, so enjoy getting to know it!

Cook/bake heart-shaped items

Whether you think heart-shaped items are cheesy or celebratory, there is something special about taking normal food items and adding a new twist. Have fun experimenting in the kitchen with different heart-shaped edibles like heart-shaped red velvet waffles, heart-shaped veggie kebabs, heart-shaped sushi, heart-shaped cookies, heart-shaped pretzels, and heart-shaped pizza. To share the culinary love, host a pot-luck style gathering where each attendee brings a different heart-shaped food.

Watch Valentine’s Movies

Prefer a low-key Valentine’s Day? A Valentine’s Day movie is the perfect way to participate in Valentine’s Day without having to leave your couch! Love American classics? Watch A Charlie Brown Valentine. Love modern romance? Watch Valentine’s Day. Love scary movies? Watch My Bloody Valentine.