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Ideas for hosting a grown-up Valentine’s movie night

This Valentine’s Day we’re celebrated not only romantic partnerships but also friendships. In the comfort of your own home, you can bring people together for a grown-up movie night and make it a night to remember. This is how to do it.

Also see: Tips to prepare a love-inspired meal for Valentines Day

We’re in the month of love, so you can bet restaurants will be crowded and maybe even overpriced. It can be overstimulating, or depressive particularly for people who are not in romantic relationships. But love can still be celebrated and you don’t have to miss out on the fun. Hosting a Valentine’s Day movie night for adults is one way to enjoy the spirit of love. It can be a night of curated comfort, tasty snacks and just an all-round lovely vibe.

Set the scene

The idea is to make your living room feel like a private cinema, and lighting is key here. Ditch the overhead fixtures, and use warm string lights and flickering candles instead. Make the guests’ seats comfy and cosy as you see fit: consider a low seating lounge area with floor pillows to create that intimate atmosphere.

Curate your menu

The event calls for more than just popcorn. Go for something with a bit of flair, such as creative charcuterie boxes. Individualise them to avoid plate passing in the dark. Some more ideas include:

  • A signature cocktail/mocktail like a Pink Lemonade Gin Fizz or chocolate Martini
  • Dark chocolate truffles or fondue station, for something sweet
  • Spicy glazed pecans for something crunchy

Also see: Long distance love? Here‘s how you can celebrate Valentine’s Day

Choose your cinematic vibe

Base your movie on your guests’ personality instead of just going for rom-coms. Do they like classic romances, modern and witty films, or steamy and atmospheric? Get their input beforehand so the experience is enjoyable for everyone.

Finishing touches

Small details will make the night memorable. Make your invitations look like movie tickets, or provide a ‘concession menu’ that lists the pairings you’ll present. Keep the night interactive by having a movie trivia, or just have engaging talks during breaks. Let your imagination run wild!

Valentine’s Day is not just for couples. It’s about sharing in the idea of love, whether it’s towards a partner, your friends or even your pets. This is great way to disengage from the consumerist nature of the day, and genuinely spending time with people you love and appreciate. 

First published by Woman & Home

Compiled by Shaneen Noble

Also see: Tips to prepare a love-inspired meal for Valentines Day

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