It’s become more popular than ever to hate on Valentine’s Day.

Haters complain it’s an invented holiday, a day dreamed up by florists and jewelers and card companies. But if you dread Valentine’s Day because you think it’s too commercial, then you’re doing it all wrong.

And if you see February 14 as an excuse for couples to be all lovey-dovey in public, then you need to realize this day is as much for you as anyone else.

Valentine’s Day is the best, and here’s why: We get a chance to celebrate love and affection for an entire day. It’s an excuse for us to be festive, love others, and smother those closest to us in hugs and kisses. Not to mention, the red and pink candies really do taste better than their ordinary hues.

So before you stress out over gifts or allow February 14 to pass you by, we’ve come up with a few fun ideas to use this holiday to show hospitality to your family and friends by celebrating Valentine’s Day together.

You may just find yourself wishing Valentine’s Day rolled around more often.

If you’re married, focus on quality time with your spouse. Just because commercials tell us we need to cover the chocolate-jewelry-flowers bases, that doesn’t mean those are our only options. Instead, plan activities that strengthen and celebrate your relationship.

Eat breakfast in bed. Spend a couple hours dreaming about your future together at a local coffee shop. Hold hands while walking around town. Create a Lady and the Tramp moment with spaghetti and candlelight. Turn off your phones and cuddle on the sofa while watching classic black-and-white films for added romance. Write each other love letters. Slow dance in the kitchen. Turn this day into a celebration of your love for one another!

If you have kids, make even the smallest moments festive. Flip heart-shaped pancakes at breakfast. Go for a family bike ride if the weather’s warm, or build a sheet fort in the living room if the weather’s on the colder side. Watch home movies. Get out glue sticks and construction paper, and make valentines to deliver to grandparents later. Bake cookies with red sprinkles or icing and nibble them while they are still warm from the oven. Teach your children that love is best celebrated with quality time and fun rather than expensive presents.

If you’re single, don’t worry! Valentine’s Day is so much more than spending time with a significant other. Meet your friends for brunch and drink way too much coffee. Bundle up and hit the trails with your dog. Fill little bags with treats to give to family members, coworkers, or neighbors. Send care packages with heart-shaped confetti to friends in different states. Call your parents and tell them how much you love them. Offer to babysit for your married friends with kids to give them a much-needed date night. Volunteer at a local nursing home to spend time with elderly men and women who don’t have visitors. Invite your friends over to watch movies and drizzle the popcorn with chocolate.

And if you’re dating, we suggest adding Ina Garten’s Engagement Roast Chicken to your dinner menu. You’re welcome. 🙂

How are you planning to spend Valentine’s Day? What’s your best Valentine’s Day memory?