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.
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1
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.
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2
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.
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3
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.
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4
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.
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5
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.
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6
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!
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7
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.
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8
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.
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9
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.
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10
Cupcake Decorating
Make heart-shaped cupcakes, then set out plenty of icings and toppings so each guest can DIY dessert.
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11
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.
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12
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.
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13
Have a Flower Arranging Fête
Not a fan of balloons? Opt for this jaw-dropping giant floral heart instead as a backdrop for your flower arranging gathering. Just buy some inexpensive bud vases and assorted stems.
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14
Wine and Chocolate Tasting
You've heard of a cheese plate, but did you kn0w you can create a similar—but much sweeter—effect with candy, chocolate, and fruit?
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15
An Adult Crafternoon
Get together with your friends to make table toppers that will last all month long. All you need are mason jars and a few craft supplies, including doilies and felt letters.
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16
Breakfast in Bed
Ok—maybe your party won't be in bed, but you can still have your friends come ready to snack on some sweets in their comfiest pajamas. For an extra-impressive spread, go vertical with your dessert board.
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17
DIY Heart Shirts
While you gab, your galentines will have a blast creating custom heart-adorned T-shirts they can cozy up in all winter long.
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18
Go Heavy on Arts & Crafts for Kids
If you're hosting a party for the youngest set, you'll need plenty of interactive activities to keep the kids occupied. Try this art project, which turns regular old crafting glue into fun window decor they can take home.
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19
Create a Photo Booth
This giant balloon heart is easy to craft and would make a great backdrop for a photo booth. Grab an insta camera so your friends can take home keepsakes.
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20
Piñata Party
This kid-friendly party idea is also great for angsty adults nursing a broken heart.