While couples are busy making reservations for Valentine’s Day dinners, a slew of singles (and couples looking for something different) are turning to alternative ways to celebrate the holiday. Eventbrite has revealed a surge in events in the U.S. geared towards singles and friend groups, flipping the script on what is traditionally a holiday for romantic one-on-one time.
Based on data from events listed on the ticketing platform over the past year, there is a marked increase not only in IRL dating events but also in non-traditional events that celebrate friendships. Attendance at Valentine’s Day events grew by 92 percent last year, while dating and singles events increased 42 percent. Galentine’s Day events were up 85% last year.
“We are currently witnessing our own ‘roaring 20s’. People are enthusiastic to go out and meet new people and have a shared experience, be it a Galentine’s Day cocktail-making class or a 90s trivia night,” said professional matchmaker and Eventbrite dating expert Maria Avgitidis.
For girls' and guys' nights out on Valentine’s Day, Eventbrite suggests checking out a trivia night, charcuterie workshop or a dance party. Eventbrite has also revealed trending events geared towards going out solo—from treating yourself to a local food tour to a serene sound bath. Creativity is key if you are a couple looking for something different, and the platform shares some creative ideas like checking out a speakeasy, playing board games or taking a couples yoga class.
A surprising bit of info was also discovered in analyzing Valentine’s Day event data—Baltimore is apparently the most romantic city, based on the percentage of Valentine’s events scheduled in February 2024.
For more romantic ideas or ways to celebrate your friends or yourself, check out Eventbrite’s list of unique Valentine’s Day celebrations.