With Valentine’s day right around the corner, many couples are saving up to splurge on the big day. Some prefer to go big for a romantic show of affection for their dates, but many are looking to save and do something more inexpensive, but personal. Here are some ideas for dates that won’t break the bank.

“I think that celebrating Valentine’s day is a great way to take a break from your busy life and spend meaningful time with your significant other,” said Martin McConnell, 12. “Even if you aren’t going big on the prices.”

1. Netflix & Home-cooked meal: Spend an evening cooking with your partner, for your family, or for yourselves, and sit down to watch a movie on a streaming service.  This chicken parmesan recipe, this stuffed peppers recipe, or this chicken marsala recipe, could make for a great meal behind the small screen.
2. Chick-Fil-A date: Hit the roads and head to a nearby fast-food restaurant, dine in, and enjoy. Everyone loves Chick-Fil-A and it won’t hurt the wallet to enjoy an 8 piece nugget meal.
3. Spend a day at the IMA: Head over to the Indianapolis Museum of Art with your loved one, and enjoy your time looking at art with your valentine. The inside is open from 11 am to 5 pm, and tickets for adults cost $18 while tickets for those up to 17 years old are only $10. More information can be found on their website.
4. Hot Chocolate at a coffee shop and going for a walk: Perhaps visit a cozy coffee shop with your significant other to get hot chocolate in this cold Indianapolis weather. Some nearby coffee shops include Geist Coffee and Global Village Coffee at 96th street and Brookschool road, or Sunrise Cafe on Main street in Fortville.

Whatever you chose to do with your loved one this Valentine’s day, the price does not matter. It is the thought that counts.

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Katelynn Hexamer

Valentine's Day gifts