When those short, bleak winter days have you down, there’s nothing quite like a party full of pink decor and chocolates to lift your spirits. Whether you’re hosting a Galentine’s Day gathering, a soirée for your kids’ class card swap, or just something festive for the adults (whether they’re happily single or coupled-up) in your life, we’ve got tons of Valentine’s Day party inspiration for you right here. From decorations and games, to food and favors (and yes, cocktails) we guarantee your guests will feel the love.
Cookie Swap
Why relegate this sweet activity to Christmas? Have each person bring their favorite Valentine’s Day cookie. Your contribution? Treats that celebrate some truly inspiring women in the world.
Rom-Com Movie Night
Gather round to binge your favorite Valentine’s Day movies, and remember, any good marathon needs plenty of perfectly poppable snacks, which is exactly what makes this indulgent mix of cereal, popcorn, marshmallows, and chocolate so great.
Game Night
While you’re celebrating your own friendships, play this matching game, which tasks participants with the challenge of pairing up famous BFFs and couples, like our very own Gayle and Oprah, of course.
Wreath-Making Party
Does anything say Valentine’s Day quite like pink and flowers? If you’re hosting prior to February 14, center the event on a fun activity, like making floral wreaths for the occasion.
High Tea
Plan a menu around the classics—tea sandwiches, scones, and mini bites. And don’t forget to give the table an ultra-feminine touch. These floral napkin rings in the color scheme of your choice are a totally approachable DIY project.
Pay Homage to Celebrity Heartthrobs
There’s no better excuse than Valentine’s Day to gush with your girlfriends. Set the tone of the ultra-girly event with these balloons that resemble the classic Valentine’s Day conversation hearts and then play a celeb-themed game like Heads Up!
Make Glittered Votives
This DIY, which results in irresistible glittered votives that’ll look great on your bookshelf long after Valentine’s Day, is easy enough for a group—as long as you don’t mind some residual sparkle.
Spa Party
If you’re getting your gals together for manis and pedis, do this DIY ahead of time and hand these scrubbers out as party favors.
Valentine’s Day Olympics
Organize a Valentine’s Day olympics with all kinds of fun, easy games. This ring toss, made from painted old-fashioned soda bottles and pipe cleaners twisted into hearts, is a great option for your lineup.
Cupcake Decorating
Make heart-shaped cupcakes, then set out plenty of icings and toppings so each guest can DIY dessert.
Mimosa Brunch
Who needs a date when you can have a DIY mimosa brunch with your besties? Make sure your bar cart is the star of the show with a multi-colored balloon arch.
DIY Hot Chocolate Bar
Set up a station with all the fixings—marshmallows, whipped cream, and, okay, Baileys. Then, send guests home with a custom hot chocolate mix.