DESPITE all our high hopes for 2021, we’re going to be celebrating this year’s Valentine’s Day under Level 3 lockdown, which might mean tweaking some of your traditional romance plans.
The last 12 months have taught us a lot, and one of the many lessons learned is not to miss out on a chance to celebrate with the ones you love.
ALSO READ: Virtual conference for men to engage
So rather than skipping out on the festivities this Sunday, why not embrace this day of love wholeheartedly by trying something different? Here are some ideas.
1. Takeout and reminisce
You might be a bit reluctant about going out for a romantic dining experience, but it’s still great to support local eateries which have also had a tough year. So why not order your favourite meal as a takeout option, get out those old photos from the pre-pandemic days, eat, laugh and reminisce! This is a great time to make some exciting plans to keep the good times rolling.
2. Night under the stars
Something as simple as putting a blanket out in the garden and sipping some champagne (yay, it’s legal now!) while enjoying a picnic under the stars is a simple yet effective way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved one. If you’re really looking to take this to the max, you can even set up the tent and have a camp-out with a fire and roasted marshmallows.
3. Home drive-in
Depending on your home equipment and capabilities, this can take on a number of forms. For the basic option, make some popcorn and get your cool drinks and snacks together, then head out to the car with your laptop, tablet or smartphone and watch your favourite movie together. You can make it something really soppy like ‘Love Actually’ or ‘The Notebook’, otherwise you can toss the day on its head with something like ‘Star Wars’ or ‘Terminator II’. If you have a projector of sorts, you can set up a bit more of a drive-in experience against a wall or sheet outside and enjoy the great outdoors.
4. Let loadshedding be your light
Take a trip back in time to the days before technology! Granted, this is a daily occurrence for most South Africans, but let’s not dwell on that part. Switch off all the lights, hide all the gadgets, and get out the candles for a really old-school evening of romance. Hopefully there’s still electricity when the evening concludes – maybe just check the loadshedding schedule ahead of time.
5. Enjoy some ‘live’ music
Many of us are missing going to live music concerts and rocking out to our favourite bands, and while live music is not likely to be an option for a while yet, you can simulate the experience at home. Some artists will actually be performing on the day (this one’s for you, Josh Groban fans!) so you can actually livestream the event at home. Alternatively, find a live concert online and enjoy the music together…without those long bathroom queues and sticky floors!
These are just a few ideas for your romantic weekend, but with lockdown restrictions easing you can even head out for a picnic in the park or at the beach, or enjoy a cocktail at your favourite spot. Take advantage of this Valentine’s Day with something memorable.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 060 784 2695
Instagram – zululand_observer
