Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples—it’s a day to celebrate love in all its forms. And what better love is there than the kind you share with your best friends? Whether you’re single, taken, or somewhere in between, this is your excuse to gather your crew, sip on something bubbly like French Chardonnay champagne, and make some ridiculous memories to celebrate Valentine’s Day, the Parisian Way!
Let’s start with some epic, unexpected, and utterly fun ways to celebrate.
1. Plan a Game Night, but Make It Slightly Chaotic
Game nights are fun—but you know what’s even better? A game night that turns into absolute, beautiful mayhem.
- Try a murder mystery game where you and your friends take on dramatic characters (accents encouraged).
- Host a “King of the Couch” tournament, where you rotate through different games (board, video, even childhood classics like Twister) until one person reigns supreme.
- If everyone is of drinking age, turn it into a themed drinking game—a sip for every lie in a bluffing game, a shot for every embarrassing truth revealed in a round of “Never Have I Ever.”
And if you’re in Austin, check out some of the board game bars scattered around downtown. They’ve got great cocktails, and if your friendships don’t survive Monopoly, at least the drinks will soften the blow.
2. Spa Day at Home, but Go Full Luxury
There is a wrong way to do an at-home spa night, and it starts with everyone half-heartedly slapping on a drugstore sheet mask and scrolling TikTok in silence. No, no, no. If you’re doing this, commit to the luxury – go all the way and order matching flowers and spa kits from our selection!
- Step one: Set the scene. That means soft lighting, a soundtrack of ocean waves or classical piano, and a room that smells like a five-star spa (a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil in a diffuser will do the trick).
- Step two: Go beyond the basics. Whip up homemade avocado-honey face masks, soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salts, and bring out the fluffy robes. If you have the patience, give each other mini facials—a little steaming, a little exfoliating, maybe even some gua sha action.
- Step three: Elevate the snacks and drinks. This is not a night for sad popcorn. Make it pretty—a fruit platter, fancy cheese, and a bottle of chilled rosé. Or go the extra mile and sip cucumber-mint-infused water like you’re actually in a luxury spa.
Bonus points if you add matching silk pajama sets into the mix. At this point, you’re just a few steps away from being a Real Housewife.
3. See a Live Performance
Look, there’s always a good reason to leave the house, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to dress up and go see something wild. Instead of just going to dinner, pick an event that will leave you talking about it for weeks.
- A Broadway or off-Broadway show —if you’re in New York, you’ve got no excuse not to see something dramatic. Bonus points if it’s a campy musical.
- A jazz bar in Chicago—because a little saxophone and a smoky cocktail never hurt anybody.
- A drag show in Miami—high energy, glitter, and performances that will have you screaming in the best way possible.
- A comedy club anywhere—because nothing bonds friends like crying-laughing at an inappropriate joke.
Pick something that pulls you out of your normal routine. A concert? A poetry reading? A circus? The weirder, the better.
4. Throw a Potluck, but Make It Instagram-Worthy
Potlucks are fun—but you know what they usually lack? Aesthetic.
Instead of the usual “everyone brings whatever” chaos, make it intentional:
- A Valentine’s Dessert-Only Potluck—chocolate truffles, heart-shaped cookies, colorful macarons, and whatever else screams sugar overload.
- A Comfort Food Night—each person brings their coziest, most nostalgic dish (mac and cheese? Mom’s lasagna? That weird casserole your grandma made that actually slaps?).
- An Around-the-World Dinner—each friend picks a dish from a different country, so by the end of the night, you’re eating sushi, empanadas, pasta, and dumplings in the same sitting.
The key? Presentation. Set the table properly, add a few candles, and of course, fresh flowers or preserved roses. If you order at Ode a la Rose, we have cure bundle sets that go along with scented candles, so you won’t have to bother and run here and there to pick different orders!
5. Take a Dance Class
Dancing in a club? Overdone. Taking an actual dance class with your friends where you all look equally ridiculous? Now, that’s a memory in the making.
Think of it this way: if you and your besties survive an hour of trying to salsa, hip-hop, or tango without tripping over your own feet, you’ll be bonded for life.
If you’re in Los Angeles, take a hip-hop class at one of the city’s famous dance studios (where you’ll probably be in the same room as an up-and-coming TikTok dancer).
In Miami, try a salsa night—you’ll walk out of there ready to star in your own music video. And if you’re somewhere quieter, just push the furniture aside and blast some Beyoncé.
The point isn’t to be good. The point is to laugh your face off, sweat a little, and fully commit to the chaos.
6. Secret Cupid Gift Exchange
Think Secret Santa, but make it Valentine’s-themed. Set a budget, draw names, and surprise each other with small, thoughtful gifts.
- Personalized gifts—a custom-made card, a framed photo, or a joke gift based on an inside joke.
- Themed gifts—everyone gets a self-care item (face masks, candles, or chocolates).
- Experience gifts—a concert ticket, a spa voucher, or a “coupon” for a homemade dinner.
Want to make gifting easier? Check out Ode a la Rose’s curated Valentine’s gift sets, featuring flowers, chocolates, and pampering goodies, so you don’t have to run around town hunting for the perfect present.
7. Host a Throwback Slumber Party
Remember the sleepovers you had as a kid? Now imagine that, but with wine and gourmet snacks.
Must-have activities:
- Matching pajamas—because nostalgia is better in style.
- Classic rom-com marathon—cue Legally Blonde, 10 Things I Hate About You, and Bridget Jones’s Diary.
- DIY beauty night—facials, mani-pedis, and maybe some questionable home hair treatments.
Upgrade the experience with a luxury flower-and-snack bundle—because fresh blooms and artisanal treats make everything feel more indulgent.
8. DIY Wine and Chocolate Tasting
Why go to a fancy tasting when you can set up the experience at home?
How to do it:
- Pick a few wines—red, white, rosé, or even sparkling.
- Pair with chocolates—dark chocolate with merlot, milk chocolate with pinot noir, white chocolate with a crisp sauvignon blanc.
- Make it interactive—rank the pairings, guess the tasting notes, and debate which combo is best.
Skip the last-minute shopping—order a pre-made chocolate and wine pairing set, complete with flowers for an extra elegant touch.
9. Adventure Day – Try Something Totally New
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to shake things up and do something unexpected.
Here are some ideas for all genders and friends:
- Pottery or candle-making class – create a keepsake while laughing at your artistic failures.
- Indoor rock climbing or trampoline park – because being an adult doesn’t mean you can’t act like a kid.
- Go-kart racing or axe throwing – unleash your competitive side.
- Paintball – let’s not forget this competitive classic that always brings a smile to everyone’s face, no matter whether they win or lose (and there’s the perfect drinks out night or afternoon to finish the activity, right?)
10. Rent a Cozy Cabin for a Weekend Getaway
Sometimes, the best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with friends is to get away from it all. Whether it’s a cabin in the woods, a lake house, or a beachside retreat, a change of scenery makes for the perfect reset. Pack your bags, leave the stress behind, and prepare for a weekend of pure relaxation, fun, and quality time with your crew.
How to Make It a Trip to Remember
- Set a vibe for the weekend. Decide whether it’s going to be a chill, cozy retreat (think fluffy socks, hot cocoa, and movies) or something more adventurous (hiking, kayaking, or exploring local hidden gems).
- Bring entertainment. Load up on board games, card games, and a classic movie lineup. A friendly competition of poker or a late-night horror movie marathon is a must.
- Cook together. Instead of eating out, plan themed dinners—taco night, homemade pasta night, or even a DIY fondue setup. The best part? Cooking together is half the fun.
- Go tech-free (kind of). Turn off notifications and embrace deep, unfiltered conversations by the fire. There’s something magical about midnight heart-to-hearts in a cozy setting.
Want to add a touch of luxury? Surprise your friends with a fresh flower delivery—because waking up to a bouquet of roses on the breakfast table makes the whole experience feel straight out of a feel-good movie.
11. Plan a “Galentine’s” or “Palentine’s” Brunch
Brunch isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Skip the packed restaurants and host your own Valentine ’s-themed brunch with your best friends. Think fluffy pancakes, mimosas, and a playlist full of feel-good tunes.
Brunch Must-Haves
- Signature drinks. Set up a DIY mimosa or Bloody Mary bar with different juices and garnishes.
- Over-the-top breakfast foods. Heart-shaped waffles, pastel-colored macarons, and a decadent chocolate fondue station.
- Aesthetic matters. Decorate the table with vases filled with fresh flowers and potted greens for a fresh, cozy vibe.
- Dress code: Extra. Whether it’s satin robes, themed outfits, or just an excuse to wear something fabulous, make it a moment.
Hosting at home? Seamlessly order same-day or next-day delivery from Ode a la Rose and enrich your table with a gorgeous Valentine’s Day bouquet like Anastasie, who just screams “casual brunch” vibes.
12. Go Vintage Shopping and Pick Out Outfits for Each Other
Forget basic mall shopping—thrift stores, flea markets, and vintage boutiques are where the real fun is. Head out with your friends and challenge each other to find the most ridiculous, stylish, or unexpected outfits.
How to make it more fun?
- Set a budget. $10 challenge? Thrift store couture? Decide the rules before you start.
- Style each other. Instead of shopping for yourself, let your friends pick an outfit for you. The more outrageous, the better.
- Have a fashion show. Once you’ve picked your finds, strut your stuff in a mini fashion shoot—bonus points if you pose dramatically in front of a thrift shop mirror.
Top off the day with coffee and pastries from a cute café, because shopping is cardio, and you deserve a reward.
13. Make DIY Valentine’s Cards (But with a Twist)
Forget the cheesy, store-bought Valentine’s cards—make your own, but make them ridiculous, dramatic, or completely over-the-top.
- Set up a craft station with cardstock, stickers, glitter, and markers.
- Write the most extra, dramatic messages possible. Think, “I’d fight a thousand dragons for you” or “You complete me more than coffee does.”
- Deliver them in unexpected ways. Tape one to your friend’s car, slip one into their bag, or surprise them with a card and a small bouquet of orchids—because nothing says “I appreciate you” like flowers.
Want to make it even easier? Check out our custom flower-and-card bundles, so you can send a heartfelt surprise without the glitter explosion at home.
14. Plan a “No-Phones-Allowed” Dinner
We all love a good group hangout, but how often do we actually put our phones away and stay fully in the moment? Make this dinner all about real conversation, laughter, and connection—no screens allowed (if you’re in your 30s, you’ll just love the nostalgia of the Interned being wired and not wiring us)!
How to Pull It Off
- Pick a cozy restaurant or set up a candlelit dinner at home. Bonus points for dim lighting and an aesthetic flower centerpiece.
- Create a phone basket. Everyone drops their phone in before dinner starts—first one to grab theirs has to pay for dessert.
- Have conversation starters. Deep questions, funny icebreakers, or “Who in this group is most likely to…” debates.
By the end of the night, you’ll realize how refreshing it is to be fully present—plus, no one will be distracted by notifications during dessert.
15. Write a Love Letter to Your Hollywood Crush (The Drama)
Everyone has that one celebrity they’d drop everything for. Keanu Reeves? Timothée Chalamet? Zendaya? Well, now’s your chance to profess your undying love—on paper.
How to Make It Extra Fun?
- Go full drama. Use over-the-top, Shakespearean-level romance. “Oh, Ryan Gosling, the way you smirk in every film has ruined me for all mere mortals.”
- Handwrite them for authenticity. Break out the fancy stationery (bonus points for wax seals).
- Read them aloud in your most serious voice. Whoever delivers the most passionate performance wins.
- Mail them? Maybe. Not saying you should actually send them, but hey, some celebs do respond to fan mail…
Complete the mood with candles, roses, and a box of chocolates, because why not make this the most dramatic night of your life?
16. Dress Your Imaginary Date – Historical Edition
In eras past, love and courtship were grand affairs, filled with ornate fashion, elaborate etiquette, and the undeniable allure of mystery. This Valentine’s Day, step back in time and imagine yourself preparing for the most opulent, dramatic, and history-inspired date of your life.
How to Bring Your Time-Traveler Date to Life
- Select an Era: Would your ideal date be a regal Victorian gentleman, a 17th-century French aristocrat, or a dashing 1920s flapper? Or perhaps a Renaissance artist, paint-stained and brooding, waiting to sketch you in candlelight?
- Find the Perfect Attire: Raid your closet (or a thrift store) for pieces that match the aesthetic. Flowing dresses, corsets, tailored coats, top hats, lace gloves—every great romance requires impeccable fashion.
- Craft Their Story: Is your date a knight returning from battle, a forbidden lover from a rival family, or a noble rogue with secrets whispered in the candlelight? Spin a tale as elaborate as the fashion itself.
- Present Them to Society: Once dressed, introduce your fictional companion to the group, as if at a royal ball. “May I present Lord Theodore Blackwood, heir to the Blackwood estate and rumored poet of the King’s court.”
- Capture the Romance: Take photos and stage dramatic, era-appropriate moments—perhaps a delicate glove-drop, an intense balcony farewell, or an unread love letter left on a velvet seat.
And if no historical rendezvous is complete without a floral gift, send yourself or your “date” a bouquet of fresh roses or orchids—a true token of romance, as would have been tradition in centuries past.
17. “Guess My Crush” Drinking Game
This game is part confession, part mystery, and all entertainment—especially after a few drinks.
How to Play
- Each player writes down three clues about a secret crush (real or celebrity). Example: “They once played a vampire” or “They wear the same hoodie every day in class.”
- One person reads the clues out loud while the others try to guess.
- If no one gets it right, the writer drinks. If someone does guess correctly, the writer has to spill another juicy detail about the crush.
- Extra challenge: If it’s a real-life crush and the group can’t figure it out, you must send a Valentine’s text to them. No take-backs.
Pair this game with Valentine ’s-themed cocktails—strawberry daiquiris, rosé spritzers, or classic red wine. And if the confessions get too intense? Hand out chocolates as emotional support.
18. Bake & Deliver Anonymous “Secret Admirer” Treats
This one brings back old-school Valentine’s mystery vibes—and it’s all about spreading love, no strings attached.
How to Pull It Off
- Bake something sweet. Cookies, cupcakes, chocolate truffles—anything homemade with a touch of love.
- Attach a note. Keep it short and mysterious: “Someone thinks you’re amazing. Happy Valentine’s Day!”
- Deliver them anonymously. Leave them on a neighbor’s doorstep, a coworker’s desk, or a friend’s locker.
- Make it a group mission. Split up, play secret admirer for a night, and see if you get any reactions the next day.
Want to send a surprise but don’t have time to bake? Order a gourmet dessert-and-flower set for the ultimate anonymous Valentine’s treat.
19. DIY Valentine’s Scrapbook & Memory Exchange
Instead of focusing on romance, why not celebrate all the love-filled moments from your friendships?
How to Create a Valentine’s Friendship Scrapbook
- Bring old photos. Gather snapshots from past trips, parties, and everyday moments that make you smile.
- Write mini love notes. Think, “Remember when we stayed up till 3 AM laughing about nothing?”
- Decorate like crazy. Stickers, doodles, glitter—this is your chance to go full scrapbook mode.
- Exchange pages. At the end of the night, everyone gets a page dedicated to them—a keepsake of love and laughter.
Want to add a finishing touch? Include dried flowers like tulips or pressed rose petals in the scrapbook, so it smells as good as it looks.
20. Valentine’s Day Outdoor Art Challenge
Creativity and fresh air make for the perfect combination, so why not take your artistic energy outside and turn a park, city street, or garden into your personal canvas? This idea mixes friendly competition, self-expression, and a touch of adventure, creating a Valentine’s memory unlike any other.
How It Works
- Pick Your Medium: Bring along sketchbooks, watercolors, or even chalk for sidewalk art. If you’re feeling extra bold, go for a disposable camera and capture the essence of love in everyday life.
- Set a Theme: Choose a Valentine’s-inspired challenge—“Paint the most romantic scene,” “Sketch a stranger’s outfit,” or “Capture a hidden heart in nature.”
- Make It a Game: Time each round and vote on the most creative masterpiece. The winner could receive a bouquet of fresh tulips or a box of artisanal chocolates.
- Turn It into a Mini Art Show: At the end of the day, display your creations and give them titles—extra points for dramatic, museum-style descriptions.
For an effortless romantic touch, bring along a potted green or a fresh Valentine’s bouquet to place in the center of your art space—because every great artist needs inspiration.
That’s a Wrap on 20 Valentine’s Day Ideas for Friends!
From writing love letters to Hollywood crushes to baking secret admirer treats, these ideas prove that Valentine’s isn’t just about romance—it’s about celebrating love in all its forms.
And if you want to add an extra thoughtful touch, nothing says “I appreciate you” like a surprise delivery of fresh flowers, chocolates, or a personalized Valentine’s gift set.
Now, which idea are you trying first?
