GREEN LIVING
Sustainable Valentine's Day Gifts and Dates Ideas
By Bria Zegarelli
February 2026
Despite its many positive aspects, Valentine’s Day is often notorious for its excessive commercialization, with common complaints being that it promotes overconsumption instead of an emphasis on actual love and care. If you’d like your Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day this year to be more sustainable but also still thoughtful and genuine, consider the following gift and date ideas for your loved ones, regardless of whether it’s your partner or your friends!
Gifts
Homemade cards:
Instead of buying a card from a store, you can make a homemade one, which will save you money and be extra special since it comes straight from the heart!
Houseplants:
Flowers are a classic Valentine’s Day gift, but if you want something longer-lasting, consider buying your partner or loved one a rooted plant that can survive for multiple years. It can add both fresh air and a keepsake-of-sorts to your home!
Custom painting:
Whether commissioned or homemade, a custom drawing or painting can act as a heartfelt keepsake for years to come. There are many artists on social media who have reasonable prices!
Knitted or crocheted accessories:
Knitting or crocheting clothing items are a great way to gift something homemade while still also giving something practical, especially during the Winter months when there’s a general need for mittens, scarves, and hats. If you don’t know how to knit or crochet, you can always support a small business that can do customized projects!
Scrapbooks:
You can never go wrong with a scrapbook, as this is a classic heartfelt, thoughtful gift for your partner! And it doesn’t have to be just photos; a scrapbook that compiles things like receipts from restaurants you’ve been, paper souvenirs from travels, and tickets from concerts or shows is also equally as special since it highlights memories you’ve made together! You could even turn the idea into a craft-night date or Galentine’s get-together with friends!
Ethical jewelry:
Buying more ethical forms of jewelry–such as vintage or secondhand pieces, as well as lab-grown diamonds and moissanite (strong diamond alternative) instead of mined diamonds–is a wonderful way to commit to more sustainable practices within the jewelry industry, especially during Valentine’s Day when this is such a popular gift.
No-waste makeup and skincare:
If you want to gift beauty- and skincare-related items for Valentine’s Day, consider purchasing from brands that offer no-waste, minimal, or refillable packaging.
Fair-trade chocolate:
Chocolate is a classic and delicious Valentine’s Day gift, but instead of buying from any brand, consider checking to see if the brand from which you’re purchasing is fair trade, meaning that they prioritize ethical, sustainable labor and environment practices.
Custom bouquet:
Instead of spending extra money on pre-made bouquets that are often mass-produced, make your Valentine’s Day flowers extra special by picking the flowers out yourself and making a custom bouquet for your partner. Trader Joe’s is a popular option for doing this, and this activity can also be turned into a fun Valentine’s Day date or Galentine’s activity as well!
Dates
Farmer’s market + homemade meal:
Support local businesses and farmers by buying some produce from a farmer’s market, and then have a romantic, homemade meal later that day!
Pottery painting:
Go to a pottery-painting store and design some plates or bowls that you can use for special occasions in the future! This is a great way to do something fun while also having a customized keepsake.
Nature/sightseeing date:
If weather permits, one of the most sustainable date options would be going on a nature walk at a local park or nature reserve! You could also do a general sightseeing date around Pittsburgh, such as going to Phipps or Mt. Washington. With a sightseeing date, you can appreciate your surroundings while also spending time with a loved one!
At-home spa or game night:
Instead of spending extra money on new products or a spa treatment, spend time together at home by lighting some candles and having a DIY spa night! Not only will you most likely be using products you already have, but you’ll also be able to have a relaxing night in! If you prefer something a little more upbeat but still comfy, consider having a snack and game night at home instead. This is also a great Galentine’s activity to do with friends!
Show tickets:
Support the arts by going to an orchestra or theatre show as a special night out! Currently, Wicked is playing at the Benedum until February 15th, so that could be a nice option if you want to gift an experience rather than an object!
By Meghan Rodgers
The rich jewel-like color of this Beetroot Ginger Soup makes this recipe perfect for a vegan Valentine’s Day dinner. Serve it as a luscious starter or save it for a show-stopping main course, along with croutons or crusty bread.
What’s more? This healthy recipe is so simple — just six basic ingredients.
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