By JUSTIN REESE – Celebrated on February 14, Valentine’s Day is seen as a day of spreading and embracing love with one’s partner. However, not all students have a significant other they can turn to in celebration, but fear not, Valentine’s Day can still easily be celebrated just as equally.

The holiday is about more than just love and affection towards others, but also towards one’s self. There are plenty of solitary activities one can participate in that express the love and embrace of one’s self.

Instead of a couples massage, perhaps a solo massage followed by a facial and heart-shaped Dominos Pizza. Why not make it a whole day of self-care. Sophomore Adeline Loyal had a similar idea, “Self-care is an important practice year-round, Valentine’s Day is no exception.”

If an independent activity doesn’t quite sound right, maybe spending the day with a group of friends would be best. Seeing a movie, getting dinner, bowling, or a game night are all fun activities to do while spending time with friends to embrace love and friendship. Senior Reese McFarlane planned to do just that: “I plan on hanging out with the people that I love and care about. Maybe dinner with all of my friends or a game movie night.”

Perhaps one of the biggest reasons students don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day in a meaningful or fun way is because students typically have school on the 14th. However, this year due to parent-teacher conferences, students will not have classes on Valentine’s Day. This allows for students to spend the day with the people they love, and embracing the love they have for not only those around them but themselves as well. 

Junior Anakin Leydic, clearly happy to have the day off said, “Usually we have school on Valentine’s Day which keeps me from doing much. Maybe this year since we don’t have school I can spend the day doing something fun with my friends or family.”

While Valentine’s Day is typically targeted towards those in relationships, nothing should stop students from celebrating the love they share with others and themselves. Those without a partner can find a good time by taking the day for self-care or surrounding themselves with those whom they care for.  

[Photo by Justin Reese]

Photo Caption: “Reese McFarlane and Jorie Meil embrace Valentine’s Day atmosphere.”