Anti-Valentine's Day Celebrations To Be Held

For some, greeting cards epitomize commercialism (Jessica Rinaldi/Getty Images)

Reported by: Megan Graves

Valentine’s Day sparks serious loathing from some people.

Whether it’s due to the commercialism, the focus on romantic couples, or the bitterness of a personal breakup, anti-Valentine’s Day movements have been gaining popularity.

Some have coined the day “Single’s Awareness Day” (SAD) and connect it with depression and pints of ice cream. Others support creating a new holiday on Feb. 15, to celebrate singleness. While others attempt to reclaim Feb. 14, with “anti-Valentine’s Day” activities.

Web sites like Cafepress.com offer t-shirts celebrating singleness or criticizing love with delightfully bitter sayings like “Cupid: Never trust a child with weapons.”

Even the greeting card companies are cashing in on the anti-Valentine’s Day spirit, designing pessimistic cards to capitalize on the new market. If you find this ironic coming from the greeting card company, you’re not alone.

Whatever your attitude, here are some creative ideas to make the holiday bearable – perhaps even fun:

• Humorous: The New Edgecliff Theatre in Greater Cincinnati is commemorating “Single’s Awareness Weekend” with two one-act shows celebrating singledom.

• Bitter: Host an “Anti-VD” party, where red is forbidden and black decorations and broken hearts dominate. Play the angriest mix of dump songs you can find. Have guests bring photos of ex’s to shred. Create a contest for the best anti-Valentine rhyme.

• Pitying: Indulge in a SAD pity party, complete with romantic comedies and chocolates. Karaoke to the sappiest love songs possible.

• Confident: Get some friends, dress up, and create your own celebration of friendship. Head down to Newport on the Levee for some fun events.

• Charitable: Buy some balloons or a few single flowers and go to a place where you could make a lonely person's day brighter – your local nursing home. Pass out these small tokens and receive the joy that comes from selfless giving.