Minimalist Valentine’s Day Ideas
I never thought I’d be married. I thought I just wasn’t “one of those people” and that I wasn’t cut out for marriage. Then I met Brent and he literally swept me off my feet on our first date. Since then, it’s been one incredible experience after another and nearly 7 years later, we’re still in the “honeymoon phase”.
Now, I’m not a relationship expert but I am incredibly proud of ours and I attribute our success as a couple to our commitment to “dating” each other. We’re always pursuing new and exciting experiences, trying new foods, making fools of ourselves attempting to master new skills and I swear that’s what keeps our relationship so strong! We’re also minimalists in the making which means when it comes to special occasions, we prefer experiences over things. Valentine’s day is no different so we’ll be enjoying some of these minimalist Valentine’s day ideas ourselves and we hope you will too!
6 Minimalist Valentine’s Day Ideas
Cooking Classes
We’re foodies, and if you’re here there’s a good chance you are too! Kitchen Door Catering offers a variety of really interesting cooking classes. Everything from knife skills to fresh pasta making is available and it’s a great, interactive way to spend some quality time together.
Unique Dining Experiences
Chef’s night at Sugarmoon farm is still one of our favorite things to do for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. We’ve been several times and it never gets old. A few times a year, the farm brings in a guest Chef who takes over the kitchen and designs a set menu around a theme. There’s live music, wine pairings (or cocktails if you prefer) and it’s all done family-style on large harvest tables.
Foodie Valentine’s Day Ideas
In Halifax, Dine Around happens in February which makes this the perfect time to explore some new restaurants and foods. More than 70 restaurants offer set menus at specific price points (ranging from $10 – $50) along with some unique new menu options. There are few things more romantic than an intimate dining experience, trying new foods together!
Weekend Staycations
Nova Scotia winter travel is worth embracing! There are so many cozy winter getaways to choose from and many offer special Valentine’s Day packages. I’d highly recommend those that offer fireplaces & hot tubs like the Tidal Bore Rafting Resort or Irwin Lake Chalets!
Nova Scotia Ice Wine Festival
I know what you’re thinking… “but Sara, I don’t like Ice Wine”! This is a common misconception that we’re putting a stop to right now! The Ice Wine festival features ALL Nova Scotia wines including our award-winning Tidal Bay & some fantastic sparkling wines along with reds, rose’s and (of course) ice wine. The festival happens during Valentine’s Day weekend and offers different tastings and events to suit your style.
Discovery Centre’s: Discover Love
We love the idea of a slightly riske adults-only event! And, we’re going! I truly believe that having fun together (even if that means blushing at a sex-themed event) is incredibly important. It’s too easy to fall into a routine and forget to explore new ideas, so attending an event like this is a great way to mix things up a bit.
Need More Minimalist Valentine’s Day Ideas?
Don’t worry friends, we’ve got you! Check out our experience gift guide that’s got 49 other experience-based gifts or our ultimate foodie gift guide. We’ve also got these guides ready and waiting for you:
- Gift ideas for travelers
- Boozy gift ideas for people who drink
- Unique gift ideas (straight from our own wish list)
I hope this round-up of minimalist Valentine’s Day ideas is helpful to you. We also hope it inspires you to prioritize experiences, over things. When it’s all said and done, it’s the memories we make with the people we love that really matters. Wishing you, dearest blog reader, the best Valentine’s Day ever whether you’re celebrating with someone you love or treating yourself to a well-deserved day of self-love.









Love the ideas! Nothing better than a staycation in NS in the winter time! Our favourites include White Point, Quarterdeck and Irwin Lake Chalets!
Going to check out Antojo’s tonight for their Dine Around menu after seeing your story on Instagram! Can’t wait 🙂
OMG get ready to fill your belly – the “tacos for 2” was HUGE!!!!! We’d also recommend adding the chips and sals + margaritas to the list, they were awesome!
Oh, and don’t forget to try ALL the hot sauces and then report back on your favorite 😉
These would all be wonderful things to do! I’d especially love a staycation and lots of yummy food! ❤️
We’ve never tried the Chef’s Night at Sugar Moon Farm! Sounds amazing!
Also, I just wanted to note that in your e-newsletter that you sent out the hyperlink you provided was missing a ‘g’ in the url. It is linked to dashboardlivin.com! But hopefully people will figure it out!
I’m so excited about this ‘Dine Around’ event! I didn’t know it was a thing before you guys posted info on Instagram! Thanks a million! 🍽😋
Cooking classes are the best recommendation! I also love diving into a new recipe with my partner on our own, sometimes it’s a flop but usually its just so fun!!!
That’s a great idea too!
I love it too Sara. And definitely Appreciate an experience far more than flowers, chocolates or an expensive gift. We have too much “stuff” already. Love a nice dining experience! A cozy cabin in the woods with a roaring fire and wine would be pretty special too!
I’m not a big valentine’s day fan but do not knock anyone who uses the day to show their love. My hubby and I almost 20 years ago( we will be married for 30 yrs in june) decided that every year we each would pick a day and do a special “just because day” with all the treats of a regular valentine’s day. I love it because its always a surprise and he loves it because we get two amazing love filled days each year.
My hubby of 25 years! Yes, you read that right are also still in the Honeymoon phase. We are all about experiences over stuff and have made memories instead of giving gifts , for occasions, for most of our marriage. We definitely will be ” dining around ” Halifax this month!
Thanks Sara 🤗
Ooooh that’s so awesome! I can’t wait to hear which restaurants you check out!
Great ideas,especially love the cooking experience. I agree sharing new food /dining experiences especially on Valentine’s is a great way to connect. ❤
Totally! Or any day!
Thanks for the bday ideas ! I think it’s worth mentioning that unfortunately a lot of the dine around menus have “black out dates” for feb 14 (and some for the 15th as well) and are not offering the deals on this date! Still a great idea to take advantage for for an early valentines celebration or just to Indulge in this month though! Treat yo self!
Vday** lol
A few of them do yes, but there are lot’s that don’t as well!
I’m a fan of giving experiences for any occasion! I also love all Holidays and the excuse to show my loved ones that I’m thinking of them <3
As a single gal, I'm very excited for V'day this year. My favourite band happens to be playing in town and having a girl's night out for it!
I just LOVE hearing that! A girls night out sounds like a perfect way to spend the day!
awesome gift ideas. Thanks
Always lots of great info!!