Valentine’s Day can be a special time of year, but it can also be an expensive one. With rising inflation rates, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find ways to celebrate the holiday while still managing to stay within budget. Thankfully, there are several creative and affordable ways to enjoy Valentine’s Day with your husband and kids that don’t require breaking the bank.
The most important thing about celebrating Valentine’s Day is making sure you invest in memories rather than expensive gifts. This doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice quality or quantity when it comes to spending; instead, look for thoughtful and meaningful ideas that will bring lasting sentimental value.
Here are 17 budget-friendly and fun ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your husband and kids:
1. Create a romantic atmosphere
Putting up some decorations around the home like making heart-shaped balloons or paper chains from red and white crepe paper will set the tone for a fun-filled evening. Alternatively, you could light some scented candles to create an intimate feel.
2. Make homemade cards
Get creative by making your own cards instead of buying them from a store. Little ones can make their own cards for mom and dad with crayons, glitter, and cardstock paper. Letting your kids put their own stamp on each card will make it extra special.
3. Cook dinner together
Instead of going out to eat at an expensive restaurant, cook dinner together at home using ingredients that you already have in your pantry. Making recipes as a family is a fun way to spend time together and something you’ll all remember for years to come.
4. Put on a movie night
Pop some popcorn and cozy up with blankets for movie night! Pick out one of your favorite films or perhaps something everyone can watch together. There are loads of free streaming websites where you can find classic films or old favorites like Disney movies!
5. Go for a picnic
If the weather permits then why not take advantage of it? Head out into nature for a cozy picnic surrounded by nature. Don’t forget sandwiches as well as snacks such as fruit or sweet treats. It’s sure to be an afternoon full of laughs!
6. Play board games or video games
Games not only provide entertainment but also bring us closer together – so why not play one? Board games such as Scrabble and Monopoly are classic options while there are lots of mobile games that both adults and children alike will enjoy playing together. Just don’t forget the pizza or some chips!
7. Visit a museum
Museums are often free or low-cost, so they can be an ideal place to go on Valentine’s Day. There is always something new and interesting to learn about – which makes it the perfect family activity.
8. Have a karaoke night
Nothing says Valentine’s Day like singing out loud! Whether it’s old-school rock ‘n’ roll or Disney classics, getting the whole family to join in will make for an entertaining evening.
9. Have a baking night
Baking is a great way to spend quality time together – it’s so much fun and the end result will be delicious! Whether you’re making heart-shaped cookies or cupcakes, this activity is sure to bring everyone closer.
10. Do an arts and crafts session
Arts and crafts are an excellent way to get creative together. All you need is some basic supplies like paper, glue, scissors and markers – but the possibilities are endless! You can make beautiful Valentine’s Day cards or even a collage of your family photos.
11. Take a romantic walk
The simplest things in life can be the most enjoyable – and a walk is one of them. Whether you’re walking around your neighborhood or going for a hike, this will give you time to enjoy each other’s company without spending any money.
12. Have a dance-off
Put on some music and take turns dancing with each family member! This is sure to bring out some giggles as well as provide you with a great workout.
13. Play a game of charades
This classic game will get everyone thinking and laughing at the same time – perfect for a family gathering! You can use objects, books or movies for ideas, making it suitable for all ages.
14. Plant something
Planting together as a family can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and teach your kids about taking care of the environment. Pick some seeds, plant them in pots or your garden and watch them grow over time!
15. Take a trip down memory lane
Looking back at old photos is always fun, but why not take it one step further? Gather all your family’s cherished memories and scrapbook together. You can write stories about each photo, share memories and create a unique family memento.
16. Have a photo booth session
Set up a mini photo booth corner at home using props like hats and sunglasses – let everyone show off their silly side! Afterwards, print out the photos on cardstock paper which you can use as decorations around your house throughout the year and store in frames too if need be.
17. Have a spa night
Give each other some love this Valentine’s Day by having a spa night at home. Set up a DIY spa, light some candles and let everyone take turns giving each other massages. You can also put on some face masks and foot baths to make it extra special.
No matter how you choose to spend Valentine’s Day together as a family this year, remember that it isn’t just about presents. Focus on creating special moments together that everyone can cherish long after the day is over.
Make sure everyone has a chance to feel loved and appreciated by taking part in fun activities that won’t break the bank. There’s no need to go overboard with elaborate displays of affection when all anyone really wants is quality time spent together.
How I spent Valentine’s Day with my Family
This Valentine’s Day, my husband and I decided to spend the day at home with our kids. We wanted to make it special without breaking the bank, so we opted for a cozy movie night.
As parents, it’s easy to forget about ourselves when taking care of our kids, but we wanted to take advantage of the extra time off that comes with the holiday and do something special for just the two of us.
We kicked off our Valentine’s Day celebration with an early-morning breakfast together as a family. Then Macey got to work on her valentine’s cards — she made one each for her teacher and besties, and even crafted special ones for Mommy, Daddy, and little brother Jordan.
John drove Macey off to school with us and our little boy Jordan, and we got home just in time to snuggle under the blankets for an hour before John went upstairs to work on his computer.
To finish off the day we indulged in a delicious meal followed by movie night — because nothing spells true love like spending quality time together!
How about you? How did you spend Valentine’s Day with your family this year? Tell us in the comments!