Sometimes holidays like Valentine’s Day just sneak up on us and by the time we get around to planning, every reservation or ticket is booked up. At the end of the day, this day is about spending time with the person/people you love so elaborate activities or fancy dinner reservations aren’t needed to have fun! I’m sharing below 5 easy, affordable date ideas that are easy to execute last minute.

1. Indoor picnic

It’s too cold most places to set up an outdoor picnic but an indoor one can be just as fun! Lay down some blankets in the living room, light some candles and pour some wine. For food, a charcuterie board would be fun as would ordering pizza/takeout. If you’re up for it, make a pillow fort too!

2. Virtual game night

There are thousands of fun online games to play with your significant other from trivia, truth or drink, mystery solving, scavenger hunts and more. If you want to get deep, the New York Times came out with a list of 36 to ask someone if you want to fall in love. Even if you’ve been dating for years, you might learn something new about your partner!

3. Trader Joe’s 4 course meal

There’s a popular trend on TikTok where couples go to TJ’s and buy an drink, appetizer, main course and dessert. They play rock, paper, scissors to decide who gets to pick out the option for each course. TJ’s has so many frozen apps and entrees that little to no cooking needs to be involved! This is the perfect idea for anyone who’s looking to have a unique date night that involves food.

4. Try a new counter service restaurant

All the table service restaurants are booked up but I guarantee you can find some great casual counter service restaurants that have space! This would be a great opportunity to try a new cuisine or type of food that you’ve never eaten before if you want to be adventurous.

5. Peruse Facebook for local events

You’d be amazed by how many events are going on in your community that you had no idea existed. Just go to the events section of FB and the “local” tab and you’ll find festivals, pop-ups, concerts, comedy shows, exhibits and more!