Unique Ideas for This Year’s Valentine’s Day Exchange
Exchanging gifts and goodies is one of the sweetest parts of Valentine’s Day. And although we typically think of a valentine’s exchange as something that only takes place in classrooms or between sweethearts, you can show appreciation for your friends, family, teachers, neighbors and all the important people in your life, too!
Gifts from the Heart: Valentine Craft Ideas
When it comes to traditional gift exchanges, there’s nothing like a handmade gift to show how much you care! Because no matter who the recipient is, the gifts of thought and time are always the most heartfelt. Here are a few craft ideas for everyone on your list.
For Classrooms: Valentine's Exchange Box with Printout
Put your empty HERSHEY’S Cocoa container to good use with our pre-designed printout. Your kids will have so much fun decorating a keepsake box to hold sweet messages and treats between schoolmates. We’ve even designed card templates you can print and tape candy to, so your little Valentine will be all set to celebrate the day.
For Kids: Heart Pencil Toppers
Doing homework on Valentine’s Day won’t be nearly as daunting when your little pupil is using a pencil topped with a REESE’S White Creme Peanut Butter Heart. Whether you’re gifting these to your kids or working together to make a bunch for their friends, school assignments are always easier when they end with chocolate and peanut butter!
For Your Sweetheart: HERSHEY'S KISSES Candy Roses
A bouquet of roses is lovely … but you can’t eat it. Why not combine two of the most iconic Valentine’s Day gifts into one with these sweet chocolate roses? There is so much joy in giving, especially if you take the time to prepare a surprise for someone you love.
Quality Time Together: Valentine’s Day Games & Activities
Wondering what to do on Valentine’s Day? If candlelit dinners aren’t your style, planning activities can be an inexpensive and fun way to spend time together -- think crafting, baking or playing games! Or embrace Galentine’s Day ideas, like brunch with friends. Maybe take a walk in the park with your parent or mentor. There are so many ways to celebrate every kind of love … how will you ever decide? That’s why we’ve pulled together a few ideas to get you started.
Valentine’s Bingo Game
If you’re looking for a laid-back Valentine’s Day activity, grab the remote—it’s time to play a few rounds of Rom Com bingo. Just print, watch and enjoy! Is there any better way to spend the evening laughing with your family, gal pals or partner?
Valentine’s Day Scavenger Hunt
For the kids, hide candy, like HERSHEY’S Strawberry Creme Hearts, and small prizes around the house or yard. Then hand out a list of all the items they need to find along with a fancy bag to stow their treasures. Hey, it might even become an annual Valentine’s Day tradition that they’ll look forward to each year.
Write a Love Letter
Valentine’s Day is the best time to remind the people in your life how much you love and appreciate them. Write about fun times you’ve shared, include inside jokes, or keep it serious by writing about challenges you overcame together. If you don’t want to write a full letter, try making a list of all the things you admire about your partner, friend, parent or child and ask them to do the same. You might be surprised by how much love goes unsaid.
Sweets to Eat: Valentine’s Day Recipes
Make the holiday extra special with a homemade treat. Since chocolate is a Valentine’s Day staple, you’ve come to the right place for recipes. Here are a few new takes on familiar Valentine’s Day classics:
Chocolate Dessert Waffles
We won’t judge if you make this dessert recipe for breakfast in bed, instead of waiting until after dinner.
HERSHEY’S HUGS & KISSES Valentine’s Cake
A showstopper for sure, this beautiful heart-shaped cake serves 12, making it ideal for a Galentine’s Day get-together or family dinner party.
Love Bug Cupcakes
Do your children have a sweet tooth? Of course they do! But before they enjoy, ask them to help you bake these cupcakes for a special moment together.
No matter how you choose to spend this Valentine’s Day or whom you spend it with, the most important thing is to do it with love. Whether you create a fun craft, play games or bake something to share, if you keep an open heart and show your appreciation for the people you admire, you can never go wrong.
More Valentine’s Day Ideas
Looking for more DIY activities and heart-themed Valentine’s Day recipes? Explore our Valentine’s Day page where you can shop new and classic Hershey’s Candy, discover decadent desserts and get gift ideas for all the loved ones in your life!
If you can’t fit all the love into just one day, bookmark these ideas for special occasions or weekend fun!
