No romance needed—7 unique ways to celebrate “anti-Valentine’s Day” in Birmingham
Reading time: 4 minutes
The countdown to Valentine’s Day is on, but believe me when I say you don’t need to be boo’d up to celebrate the season of love. Whether you’re reeling from a romance gone wrong or want to show love to the friends in your life, we’ve got you covered. Here are 7 unique ways to celebrate “anti-Valentine’s Day” in Birmingham.
1. Treat yourself to a solo day in Birmingham
Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday this year, so it’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a day all for you before or after work. Whether you take in the peaceful scenery at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens or browse records at Seasick Records, enjoy the opportunity to show love to number one in your life—you!
2. Get out your romance rage at Birmingham Rage Room or Civil Axe Throwing
Does the idea of Valentine’s Day in Birmingham bring up more feelings of anger than love? Let it all out at Birmingham’s Rage Room or Civil Axe Throwing, two local options that give you the chance to smash, throw and break your heart out.
- Birmingham Rage Room Location: 2616 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
- Birmingham Rage Room Hours: Daily Noon-10PM
- Civil Axe Throwing Location: 3004 4th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
- Civil Axe Throwing Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 2:30-10PM | Friday 2:30PM-12AM | Saturday 11:30AM-12AM | Sunday 2:30-8PM
3. Indulge in cuddles—puppy or kitten cuddles, that is
Craving some puppy love? You don’t have to be in a relationship to experience something sweet on Valentine’s Day in Birmingham. Instead, go solo or bring your BFFs to Gatos and Beans, Birmingham’s cat café where you can sip a cup of coffee while petting adorable kittens. Or, if you’re looking to bring a pet home to feel the love all the time, head to one of Birmingham’s amazing humane societies.
- Location: 4348 3rd Ct S, Birmingham, AL 35222
- Hours: Monday 3-6PM | Friday-Saturday 11AM-7PM | Sunday Noon-6PM
4. Commemorate a breakup with the perfect cookie
If you haven’t experienced the deliciousness that is a breakup cookie from Church Street Coffee & Books yet, trust me—you want to add this to your list. Grab a few as Valentine’s Day gifts for best friends or coworkers, and of course, make sure you get one (or two) for yourself. It’ll be the best ‘breakup” you have ever experienced.
- Location: 81 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213
- Hours: Daily 6AM-6PM
5. Enjoy a 5-star meal with friends
Don’t wait for special occasions to enjoy an elevated meal. Miss the crowds and enjoy all the deliciousness by grabbing your loved ones and enjoying a Valentine’s-Day-level dinner… after Valentine’s Day. Need some inspiration? We’ve got you covered:
- 7 spots that offer private dining
- Birmingham’s innovative tasting event, {small batch}
- 5 local cooking classes
6. Work out any anti-Valentine’s Day frustration at a fitness class
Looking for a fun way to show yourself love this Valentine’s Day? Birmingham has plenty of fun workout studios with classes that emphasize loving yourself and making healthy choices. Plus, killer playlists full of love songs and breakup anthems alike will fuel the workout. Here are a few of my top recommendations for a workout that will have you feelin’ the burn and the self-love:
7. Romanticize your own life with fresh flowers
To me, Valentine’s Day is all about finding love in each little moment, whether or not you’re in a relationship. If you’re in an anti-Valentine’s Day mood, you can still find fun ways to celebrate love. Follow the TikTok trend of romanticizing your life, and buy fresh flowers to brighten up your home at your local Piggly Wiggly—no roses necessary.
How are you celebrating Valentine’s Day in Birmingham this year… or not? Tag @BhamNow to let us know!
