In the mid 1900’s, Valentine’s day was about candy and romance. Even though the “lovey, dovey” stuff and sweet treats were big, there were closer details about people’s ways to share love. Most guys would confirm their valentine by writing girls a lace trimmed letter, with items like flowers, heart-shaped candy, or a piece of small jewelry. Now in 2026 men go both ways of getting over the top gifts or store-bought letters to get out that “extra work”.
Other than the flowers, letters, and going out for dinner, candy has been a popular choice. In 1960 candies like Baby Ruth, 100 Grand Bar, Butterfinger, and Milk Shake bars were really popular, and only a nickel each. It was the total opposite in 1980 with all sweet candies like Nerds, Pop Rocks, Sour Patch Kids, and Big League Chew. It cost 5 times more than it did in 1960. Now in the big 2026 the candy M&M’s, Nerds Gummy Clusters, and Swedish Bubs are the top picks even though the price rose from five cents in 1960, to about two dollars in 2026. “If I got a gift for Valentine’s day, I would want skittles and a bubbl’r”, that is what eighth grader Kolten Miller said.
Sometimes a special someone isn’t really into candy. But the website Wire Cutter says that’s okay, and gives lots of ideas to consider instead of that sugary treat. One of the many ideas was getting fluffy socks to lounge in or style with the perfect outfit. Or if a close partner is into skincare, the Red-light Therapy Mask that will lessen inflammation and make faces baby soft would make the perfect gift. She could also be a dog mom. If so, the custom dog pillow would be a good choice. It is a cushion with a dog printed on the front and back, that can be brought everywhere and anywhere without missing a favorite fluff-ball.
Boyfriend or not, there are many other things to do than wishing to be in a relationship. Kids have to deal with this every Valentine’s day and do other things to celebrate the holiday, like baking a fresh batch of heart shaped cookies with a mom or dad, or maybe doing a Valentine’s day themed puzzle with a relative. Elementary kids give candy and small objects like scented stickers or fidgets to their classmates, so an option is to do that to some close friends.
Everyone has different opinions on Valentine’s day. It could be whether a piece of candy or flowers would make a better gift, or if they want something to last a long time or not. But through-out the centuries people have realized Valentine’s day is really just to show that one cares for the other so much even if they just say it face to face.
