By: Kayleigh Bracht

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and with your wallet still empty from Christmas, you’re probably wondering how you can still make Valentine’s Day special without breaking the bank.

Whether this is your first date or you’ve been together for years, there are plenty of activities you can do that are green and inexpensive.

“I think Valentine’s Day is a Hallmark holiday,” said junior business organization major Elizabeth Beddow. “I’d rather stay home and get a pint of ice cream or some Chinese.”

If you want to enjoy the night in with someone, consider renting a movie at a Redbox. They are conveniently located at drugstores, grocery stores and gas stations around the area and they are only $1.20. Netflix is also a popular choice for picking a movie to watch, and if you are a member, chances are your subscription is already paid for the month.

If movies aren’t your thing, try a video game session. Challenge each other to some Mario Kart or get on our feet and get your workout on to your favorite dance game.

Before you pop the movie in or get your game on, why not try cooking a nice dinner with your sweetheart? The two of you can try a new recipe or recreate one of your personal favorites and after it’s finished you can have an indoor picnic and enjoy your delicious dinner on a blanket on the ground.

“Cooking something you’ve both never made before is always fun and exciting,” said senior dance major Kristen Weibel.

If you’re interested in hanging out with friends, try hosting a game night. Games like Pictionary and Cranium can help bond you to your partner and make for an interesting and exciting night.

Want to go out on the town? Why not hit a local café show? There may be a small cost at the door, or none at all. Spend time with your date while you both check out some new area talent.

If you’re more interested in quieter art forms, head to the Akron Art Museum. If you are a student or a faculty member, it’s free with your Zip Card.

If outside is where you prefer your setting, maybe ice skating is the perfect date idea for you. Lock 3 is located only a few blocks away from The University of Akron campus and is only $3 to rent skates.

Also just $3 is the ice rink in Falls River Square in Cuyahoga Falls. There is also an indoor rink in North Canton called Center Ice Sports Complex if you wish to skate indoors.

A stroll through the woods or a snowy hike could pull you out of your winter blues and get the blood pumping through your veins. How about taking a sled out to the highest hill in your city?

No matter what your fancy, there is always something to do to make your day special without draining your bank account.