Find a date for valentines day

When shops are filled with heart-shaped balloons and roses made out of chocolate, it can only mean one thing: Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. If you’re feeling the romance in the air, make the most of the occasion and find yourself a date on Bumble! Here’s how. 

Take advantage of Bumble’s features 

Bumble’s features are all about maximizing your chances of finding connections. Using our Spotlight feature means that your profile will be the first one other daters see, allowing you to be seen by more people, and without anyone knowing.

There won’t be any guessing games about secret admirers here: Bumble’s feature Beeline, part of our paid Bumble Premium subscription, shows exactly who likes you. You’re able to view folks who have swiped right on you but you haven’t swiped on just yet, giving you access to the people who may jump at the chance to have you as their date on February 14.

If you have a few ideas in mind of what you’re looking for in a Valentine’s date, setting Advanced Filters (part of Bumble Premium) on your profile ensures you only see people who fit your preferences. If you’re looking for someone to have a laid-back date with for Valentine’s Day, you can set a filter for “something casual”; if you’re not a drinker, you can set a filter to match with others who selected the ‘Sober’ profile badge so you can both enjoy mocktails without awkwardness.

Valentines-ize your experience 

You can bring Valentine’s Day straight to your profile to make sure potential dates know your intentions. Update your bio temporarily so it reads something like, “Hoping to find my Valentine’s date” or “Looking for someone who’s free Feb 14th 👀❤️.”

If you want to continue the theme in conversation with a match, play into it with your opening line. A cute poem can strike the balance between funny and sweet: “Roses are red, violets are blue, how about some drinks, and maybe dinner too?” A fun question can also be a great icebreaker: “Valentine’s Day: Overrated or romantic?” or “Candlelit dinner or old-school movie night?” Show your playful side and see how your match reacts.

Start a great conversation 

Once you make a match you’re excited about, get the conversation going. Asking thoughtful questions about one of their photos or Interest Badges shows that you’ve taken the time to read their profile and want to get to know them more. If you’re stuck on what to say, silly questions can also inject some laughs into the chat: “Is a hot dog actually a sandwich?” “If you had a first date theme song, what would it be?” If you’re really stuck on what to ask, try playing Bumble’s Question Game with your match.

There’s no better way to flirt and get in the Valentine’s mood than with a few compliments. Tell your match what you like most about their profile. It could be a photo where their eyes are sparkling, a Profile Prompt answer that you find particularly impressive, or maybe they’ve connected their Spotify account and you love their top artists too. Think about what made you swipe right, and tell them. It could just be the thing that leads you to securing that date!

Don’t be shy—actually ask them out!

To lock that Valentine’s date in, sometimes you have to take the leap and ask them outright. Though asking someone out can feel a little nerve-wracking, keeping it simple and straightforward is the best way to go about it. Be specific with your match when asking so they know you’re really interested in meeting up. “I hear (insert bar/restaurant) is a great spot for Valentine’s Day. Would you like to go on a date there with me?” 

Tailoring your Valentine’s Day plans to your shared interests is also a great way to set up a date. If you’ve been talking about how you both love live music, take a look at some gigs in the local area on that day and ask your match if they’d like to go with you.

If you or your match aren’t comfortable with meeting up in person on Valentine’s Day, you can still have a fun date, virtually. Bumble’s Video Chat is a great way to do this, and because it’s right in the app itself, you don’t even have to share phone numbers to use it. You don’t necessarily have to have a date on February 14 to feel the Valentine’s romance either. Ask your match if they’d like to hang out on the 15th or later in the week instead! 

However you’d like your Valentine’s Day to look, we hope that these tips help you to make some new, meaningful connections.

If the simple thought of a Valentine’s Day date stresses you out every single winter, take a deep breath. There's an easy way out of this holiday headache—no Cupid's bow required.

"The easiest way to relieve this pressure is to have a conversation around what your expectations are of this day," says relationship expert Morgan Cutlip, PhD. Consider where you’re at in the relationship, and talk about whether or not you’ll exchange gifts, go out or stay in, and who (if not both) will take on planning. This won’t take the fun out of it, she says, but instead can help avoid awkward moments on V-Day. (Take it from Cutlip, who once got a boatload of cliché gifts from a guy she went on two dates with. Cringe.)

Nix the flowers, the chocolates, and the dinner for two (okay, maybe keep the chocolates), and opt for one of these creative Valentine's Day date ideas instead. You've probably gone the traditional route sooo many times that you've run out of ideas anyway. Whether you’re a foot rub-on-the-couch kind of person or love going out on the town with your S.O. on your arm, you're covered.

Plus, going on an unconventional Valentine’s Day date can help you "change things up just a bit" and even "create excitement and passion" in your relationship, says Terri Orbuch, PhD, professor at Oakland University and author of 5 Simple Steps to Take Your Marriage From Good to Great. To do that, she recommends going on a date that includes one of three things, or all three if possible: a creative activity, a physical activity, or a new activity.

And remember, sometimes (read: most of the time) simple is the best option. No need to hire someone to skywrite "ALWAYS AND FOREVER" à la Tarek El Moussa and Heather Rae Young. So before you write off V-Day entirely, take a look at these unique Valentine's Day date ideas that will wow your S.O. this year.

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1. Go to a comedy club.

Laughing together can promote attraction and reduce stress, says Cutlip. An outing to an improv or sketch comedy show can help you get out of your head and have a much-needed belly laugh. And if it’s a total bomb? Your most LOL-worthy episode of Seinfeld is waiting for you two at home.

2. Recreate one of your best dates.

Whether it’s revisiting your first date spot or recreating a dreamy picnic (but this time on your living room floor), reminiscing on the giggly, sweet first days of a relationship can bring levity to your relationship. Plus, you can bring in special touches that show you really know your partner, Cutlip says, like making your S.O.’s favorite dessert.

3. Try a floral arrangement class.

Getting a V-Day bouquet is kind of a given, so switch it up by channeling your inner florist. Attend a floral arrangement class or take it into your own hands by picking out various blooms at the grocery store and see what you both come up with. You can also order seasonal floral design kits from companies like Poppy Flowers, which will deliver different flowers and design instructions.

4. Have a charcuterie night.

What’s truer love than a gal and her charcuterie board? Turn Valentine’s dinner into a charcuterie board night and snack on all kinds of goodies. Both of you can come to the date with your own spin—maybe a fondue board or a burrata board—and share.

5. Bring a drive-in movie theater home.

Sure, you can go the classic dinner-and-a-movie route for Valentine’s Day, or you can level up with a slumber party-esque date at home. Grab the fairy lights, fashion a makeshift fort, make popcorn—with extra butter—and cuddle up for a new movie. Cutesy pajamas required.

6. Try something new during sexy time.

If there’s any day to experiment in the bedroom, it’s February 14. Try something you’ve both expressed interest in, whether it’s giving sexy massages or dabbling in kink with a blindfold. Experimenting with a new position or creating nude art with your S.O. can turn up the romance and spice.

7. Have a theme night.

Normalize wearing couples costumes not just on Halloween. Dress up in jazzy 'fits and head to a speakeasy for martinis, or stay at home in your grooviest '70s garb for a showing of Almost Famous. "Try to incorporate ways of having fun that are different from your normal routine together," Cutlip says. "It’s a great reminder of your compatibility and genuine enjoyment of one another."

8. Cuddle around a fire.

Go for an aprés ski vibe with drinks and s’mores around an outdoor fireplace, or build a bonfire in the backyard and live your best teen film romance life. And never underestimate the intimacy and comfort of snagging a table in front of a restaurant’s fireplace. So cozy.

9. Teach each other something new.

Want to amp up your bond? Invite your S.O. into your world, and vice versa. Maybe your partner walks you through a few jiu jitsu moves, while you teach them the perfect stance for archery. You’ll share your passions—and have fun doing it.

10. Take the day off.

When was the last time you spent quality time together, totally alone? Valentine’s Day can be the excuse you need to take the day off (if possible) and enjoy each other’s company undisturbed. Do a whole lot of nothing or go for a long morning run—the day is all yours.

11. Take a cocktail class.

Instead of going out for drinks, learn how to make them yourself. There are plenty of fun tutorials on the 'gram and in-person or virtual mixology classes to choose from. In lieu of a resy at that new cocktail bar, find a fave local restaurant or bar selling at-home cocktail kits. Voila, Valentine’s Day just got much more special (and boozy).

12. Have a spa date.

Instead of stressing yourself out to plan an intricate evening, try something different like a DIY at-home spa day for two. Pamper each other and leave the date in a completely relaxed state of mind. After all, the couple that face-masks together, stays together (amirite?).

13. Go on a take-out tour.

Any foodies out there? Then don’t limit yourself to just one meal this Valentine's Day. Instead, go on a take-out tour in your area by picking up different dishes at different restaurants. Try a cuisine that you would never have tasted otherwise.

14. Test your rock-climbing skills.

Orbuch recommends planning a date that involves physical activity or exercise because it’ll increase your adrenaline—and arousal. "This creates excitement and can reignite the passion in your relationship," she says. So if you’ve been together long enough to have a Valentine’s Day tradition (especially one that revolves around sitting down), now’s the time to break it. P.S. Rock climbing specifically requires trust and communication, so it’s basically the perfect bonding activity.

15. Go on a local historical tour.

You might not be able to give your history buff beau a time machine for V-Day, but you can take them on a historical tour of your town or nearby city. Check for guided walking tours that’ll show you your home in a whole new way (some even include food and/or drink stops!).

16. Lace up some skates.

Strap on your ice skates, and take your partner out for a classic winter night they won’t forget. Even if they haven’t skated before, teaching them how is still a fun date-night activity that will bring you even closer together. Plus, someone is bound to fall at least once in the night, so you're guaranteed a few laughs, too.

17. Plan a DIY poetry night.

If you're the artsy type, why not flex your creative muscles on this day of luuurve with an at-home open mic or poetry night? Without the pressure of a crowd, it will be way easier to read a special something to your loved one. (Or, take turns reading excerpts from these erotic novels.)

18. Have a picnic.

Depending on your locale, find the perfect spot around a fire pit, on a beach, at your favorite park, or even from the comfort of your own home. All you need is a basket, blanket, sandwiches, and a bottle of wine.

19. Pose away in a photo session.

Hear me out: While a photo session can feel cheesy, once you have those adorable couples photos, you won’t think twice about how corny you looked in that Charlie’s Angels pose in the second shot. Use the session as an opportunity to have fun with each other and create memories and photos that will literally last a lifetime. Shoott makes it easy to book a session in your area, and you'll only pay for the photos you like.

20. Volunteer somewhere together.

Hopefully, you show your partner love all year round. So instead of showering each other with over-the-top romance this V-Day, give love to someone else who may need it even more. Soup kitchens and homeless shelters are always looking for volunteers, as are animal shelters (furry babes need love, too!).

21. Visit a garden.

Florals? For winter? Groundbreaking. But actually, though—just because Valentine's Day occurs in the middle of February doesn't mean you can't have a beautiful evening with a breathtaking floral backdrop. There are plenty of botanical gardens that will give your V-Day just the spruce it needs.

22. Take a pottery class.

Re-enact the scene from Ghost (you have to try it at least once, those are the rules!) in a couples pottery class this Valentine’s Day. You’ll end the evening with a new skill, a new piece, and already be in the mood to get a little dirty and a lot handsy.

23. Go snowshoeing.

Skiing is a solid winter activity, but not everyone lives near the slopes. That's why snowshoeing is a super-satisfying alternative you can do anywhere, even across your own backyard!

24. Make your own beer.

Who died and made champagne the official drink of Valentine’s Day? No one, that’s who. If you and your partner like beer, then you’re gonna love learning how to make it—and, more importantly, taking your own batch home. An at-home brewing kit makes this easy.

25. Take a cooking class.

Ditch the fancy (read: overpriced) pre-fixe dinner in favor of a fun night making a new dish. This activity-based date strengthens your bond as a couple, says Orbuch, because you get to work as a team making something. Opt for a chocolate-making class if you want to include a (literal) taste of Valentine’s Day. There are plenty you can take virtually, too, if that’s more your speed.

26. Paint and pour.

Explore your creative side with your partner...and drink while you do it (win-freakin'-win). Just like with the cooking class, you're making something special together—except this time, you'll have art to remind you of that one really awesome V-Day for years to come.

27. Go on a scavenger hunt.

Forget that super-cheesy one you did at summer camp: This scavenger hunt will actually be fun because you get to make the rules. Twenty-first-birthday style, pick 10 to 20 items that are either hard to get (like a flower from someone else's bouquet) or just entertaining (find a $1 gift in one minute), that your S.O. has to check off by the end of the night, and have them do the same for you. You'll both end up with cool stuff and even more memories.

28. Shop at a flea market.

You never know what you’ll find at a flea market, and that’s half the fun. Set a budget and hunt for gifts with your S.O. You might learn something new about your loved one in the process.

29. Take a salsa dance lesson.

Even if you have two left feet (or your partner does), a beginner’s class can help you channel a sexy alter-ego. This will pay off long after February 14th, says Orbuch, because the arousal created from this activity can transfer to your partner and relationship. And since practice makes perfect, find some tutorials on YouTube to keep the rhythm going.

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30. Plan your next trip.

Discuss your dream trips and plot out your ideal itinerary—it might even be the night you spontaneously book a getaway for next weekend. Plus, scrolling through Airbnb listings and daydreaming about what it’d be like to sleep in a treehouse in the Adirondacks or a bungalow in Tanzania with your partner can turn into an all-night affair.

31. Go camping.

Yes, winter camping is a thing. It's not for everyone, but with the right gear (and attitude!), you can enjoy the outdoors any time of year, even when it's cold AF. And hey, you'll never take your partner's body heat for granted again!

32. Take a hike.

Even if you're chillin' in a colder climate (literally), you can still bundle up for an awesome hike—and cuddle up near a fire afterward. Done and done!

33. Rent a cabin.

Find a cabin on Airbnb to remove yourself from the day-to-day grind. Once you get settled, spend the night stargazing together—which, yeah, sounds kinda corny, but totally worth it once you're out there. Just don’t forget to bring blankets!

34. Play shuffleboard or bocce ball.

Your grandparents know what’s up. Shuffleboard and bocce ball are both super-fun games that can spark some healthy competition between you and your boo.

35. Cook a fancy brunch.

Is anything better than brunch? No need to answer that. Put your egg-poaching skills to the test with a next-level V-Day brunch (preferably in bed). Bonus points for cranberry mimosas!

36. Have a tea party for two.

Make your S.O.'s favorite tea, plus some sandwiches and scones, and you'll have a cute 'n' cozy Valentine's Day neither of you will forget.

37. Play some one-on-one basketball.

You don’t need to make any big or dramatic plans with your partner to do something new on V-Day, says Orbuch. So while a basketball date might seem ordinary, chances are you haven't played in a while, right? Wanna make it even more interesting? Loser pays for your next date.

38. Find a new spot near home.

Drive around (and don't stop) until you find something new and interesting. Every couple falls into a relationship rut, says Orbuch, so take a different route around your neighborhood and see what you find together. Even if the new place is a total bust, well, at least you can laugh about it.

39. Book a staycation.

You don't need to "do something outlandish," like whisking your valentine off to some tropical locale, says Orbuch. Instead, make a quick trip to the next town over and explore a hiking trail there. You'll be surprised how different the world can be just a few miles away. You can even make your hometown feel new again by playing tourist and staying in a nice-ish hotel.

40. Break out the board games.

Prepare to see another side of your partner: Board games have a way of bringing out the competitor in everyone. You've been warned!

Lindsay Geller is the Love & Life Editor at Women’s Health, specializing in entertainment news and culture coverage. With more than 6 years of professional writing and editing experience, she’s reported on everything from the latest dating trends to the impact of confirmation bias on mental health.

Alexis Jones is an assistant editor at Women's Health where she writes across several verticals on WomensHealthmag.com, including life, health, sex and love, relationships and fitness, while also contributing to the print magazine. She has a master’s degree in journalism from Syracuse University, lives in Brooklyn, and proudly detests avocados.

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