5 Ways to Spend Quality Time with Your Valentine

With Valentine’s Day coming up, love is totally in the air. You might already be thinking about how you’ll make your special someone feel totally loved this February 14th -- what to buy them, how you’ll express your feelings in a card to them, how you’ll try to surprise them.

But perhaps even more important than what you give to your loved one is how you’ll spend the day together. Spending quality time together away from kids, work, and other responsibilities is a great way to rekindle the flame of your love and to make Valentine’s Day feel extra special.

These sustainable date night ideas are a few of my favorite ways to spend a night out with my husband in a responsible, eco-friendly, AND totally romantic way.

Cook Together

Embrace your inner chef and cook a delicious meal together. Cooking at home allows you to have total power over exactly what ingredients go into your meal and what ingredients don’t -- you don’t have that luxury when you eat out. Plus, it gives the two of you the chance to bond and work together. Try a new vegan recipe together, and don’t forget dessert! Just try to send your kids off with a babysitter, so you can spend a romantic evening focused on only each other.

One of my absolute favorite thing to cook is Vegan Alternative to the Famous Spanish Torta.

Go on a Hike

If you live in a warm enough climate, get outside and go on a hike. There’s nothing more romantic than spending time in the great outdoors, all alone with the one you love most. Show the planet a little extra love by picking up any trash you see along the way. You can even bring along a picnic lunch to enjoy in nature -- just remember to pack reusable utensils and dishes.

Get Massages

…and give massages! Set the mood at home by dimming the lights, lighting natural candles, playing soothing music, and using essential oils. Pamper your loved one by giving them a long, relaxing massage in the comfort of their bed. Or, opt for a couple’s massage at a professional spa.

Go Ice-Skating

Lace up your skates and embrace the chilly, wintry weather at the ice rink. It’s a sentimental, active way to spend your evening. Get all bundled up, hold hands, and be prepared to laugh and fall a lot (probably). Warm up afterward by making hot chocolate (made from organic, fair trade cocoa, of course.)

Go to a Museum

Spend the day learning and supporting your community by visiting a local museum. It’s an inexpensive, stimulating date option, one that’s sure to invite a lot of conversation and quality time. Trust me, it’s a totally different experience going on a date to a museum than it is dragging along your kids!

Spend this Valentine’s Day making memories with the one you love, without compromising your eco-conscious mindset and lifestyle.

What are your favorite date night ideas? Let us know in the comments!