My Fav Five: Valentine's Day Alternatives

Valentine's Day is nearly upon us, and while many will be indulging in candlelight dinners and roses, others will be alone this year.

However, just because your compadres are going to be out with their significant other doesn’t mean you can’t have fun.

Here are my fav five Valentine’s Day alternatives.

Attend a Sporting Event

This year, my Valentine’s Day plan will be to attend the Penn State versus Michigan State basketball game.

Last year, I did the same thing, except the Nittany Lions played Illinois, and Jalen Pickett dropped 41 as the blue and white upset the Fighting Illini, which was awesome.

Going to a sporting event is a personal favorite thing for me to do regardless of the day, but being surrounded by others who are so passionate about the same thing provides some comfort when you are single.

Go to the Movies

There seems to be a stigma around that going to the movies by yourself is strange, but that needs to change.

In my opinion, the cinema is one of the few places it makes sense to go alone; you are going to watch the movie, not talk or hang out with people.

While the movies available to see at the moment aren’t the strongest, you can still have a fun time, and it would be a stellar way to spend your Valentine's Day.

Eat some Fast Food

Valentine's Day is not the day to care about your diet. I plan on heading to Chick-fil-A post-basketball game for a spicy chicken sandwich, waffle fries and a strawberry milkshake.

If you don’t have any plans, indulge in your favorite fast-food restaurant.

Whether that's getting a blizzard from Dairy Queen or a Big Mac from McDonald's, grabbing some fast food would be a perfect way to spend your Valentine’s Day.

Go to the Gym

Another fun Valentine's Day alternative would be to go to the gym.

You could lift weights, go on the treadmill or play pick-up basketball. In addition, you can challenge not only yourself physically but mentally.

Often, some of my best self-discovery moments have come when working out or going for a long run, so if you are going to be alone this Valentine’s Day, consider hitting up your local gym.

Galentines/Malentines

Popularized by the television show “Parks and Recreation,” Galentines/Malentines is a perfect way to spend Feb. 14 if you are single.

For those unfamiliar with the concept, it’s a celebration between friends where they just celebrate each other and their relationship. It often involves having a meal and giving out gifts to each other.

There is nothing better than hanging out with people who genuinely care about you, and an event celebrating your relationship with your friend is the perfect way to spend your Valentine’s Day.

Ben Palillo is a fourth-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email bgp5079@psu.edu.