As Valentine’s approaches, it can be a stressful time for many as we scramble to put gifts together and plan the day. Being on a Wednesday and in the middle of midterm exams it may be hard for students to spend the entire day studying where they instead could celebrate with their partners or friends. To make life easier, here are some ideas on what activities you can do for Valentine’s, some options even offered by the University. Make sure to plan something for your loved one
While not exactly on Valentines, February 15th beginning at 5 pm, the Minnesota Institute of Art holds an event where you can pick up a red cutout heart at the front desk and walk through the institute to put the heart next to your favorite art piece. This event is free and open to everyone and can be a perfect activity for couples and groups that love art and want an immersive experience. The event hosts fun activities such as live music (6-8 p.m.), art-making (5:30-8:30 p.m.), films (5:30-8:30 p.m.), and refreshments (5:30-8:30 p.m.).
The University is screening the popular movie “Sixteen Candles” on February 13 from 6:30-8 p.m. located in Moos Tower, Room 2 – 530, and is an RSVP event. The movie written and directed by John Hughes follows a girl named Samantha who is turning 16 and is quickly pushed to the side by her older sister who is getting married the day after. Once at school, she fills out a quiz that reveals her crush on one of her peers Jake Ryan who is a senior at the high school. The movie is considered to be an 80’s rom-com and a coming-of-age movie. It is a perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s with whomever without having to even leave campus! You can enjoy watching a popular 80s movie and maybe meeting other students.
A classic way to spend Valentine’s is going out to dinner. The good part about being in a big city like Minneapolis is that we have plenty of good dining options. A good suggestion would be to make a reservation ahead of time because many restaurants may be booked out. Some restaurants close to campus that would make a good date location include Crave, which is an American Kitchen and Sushi bar; Hazlewood Bloomington, a modern American restaurant with a vibrant interior; and Sidewalk Kitchen, a Chinese restaurant with a dimly lit interior. Dinner is a simple way to spend Valentine’s day with your partner and be able to connect more and talk. A great addition to dinner is getting ice cream (if the weather permits) and walking around and exploring.
The last Valentine’s activity may be the easiest: planning something at home. Buy canvases and paint together, get dry clay and make things together, watch a movie in PJs, order food, or find an activity that both parties enjoy and do together. It’s a great way to enjoy each other’s company and a perfect time to exchange gifts. Another idea is cooking and/or baking together. Choose a recipe that both of you enjoy, have fun navigating the process, and enjoy the food afterward.
Valentine’s Day, with its varied interpretations, holds unique significance for each individual. As couples prepare for this special day, it’s important to recognize that the point of celebration is to be with each other. Couples may find joy in different expressions of love, and so, the activities chosen should reflect this individuality. The key is to choose a shared experience that brings both partners genuine happiness. Make sure to take a break from school and make an effort to connect with your partner this Valentine’s.
