Celebrate your anniversary with a twist this year as we navigate through these challenging times. With the ongoing pandemic, traditional anniversary plans may need to be put on hold, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it a memorable and extraordinary occasion. Discover innovative and creative ways to commemorate your special day, from planning a cozy picnic in your own backyard to organizing a virtual dance party with loved ones near and far. Let’s explore these unique ways together and create lasting memories, even in the midst of a pandemic.
Virtual Celebration Ideas
Host a virtual dinner
One fun and intimate way to celebrate your anniversary is by hosting a virtual dinner. Set up a video call with your loved one and prepare a delicious meal together. Choose a recipe that holds sentimental value or try something new that you’ve never cooked before. Light some candles, dress up, and create a romantic atmosphere in your own homes. Share your meal and enjoy each other’s company while virtually dining together. It’s a great chance to connect and create new memories, even if you can’t be physically together.
Plan a movie night
If you’re looking for a cozy and relaxing way to celebrate, plan a virtual movie night. Choose a movie that holds special meaning to your relationship or explore a new genre that you both enjoy. Sync up your streaming platforms and hit play simultaneously, then connect over video call to watch the movie together. You can even prepare some popcorn and snacks to enhance the movie-watching experience. Cozy up in your favorite blankets and share your thoughts and reactions throughout the film. It’s a great way to enjoy a shared activity and feel closer, even when you’re physically apart.
Take a virtual tour
Travel may be restricted during a pandemic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore new places together. Take advantage of the many virtual tours available online and embark on a virtual adventure with your partner. Whether it’s touring famous museums, exploring iconic landmarks, or even virtually walking through beautiful natural landscapes, there are endless options to choose from. Research destinations that hold meaning to both of you or simply pick a place you’ve always wanted to visit. Immerse yourselves in the wonders of the world while creating lasting memories from the comfort of your own home.
Attend an online concert or performance
If you and your partner are music or theater lovers, attending an online concert or performance can be a fantastic way to celebrate your anniversary. Many artists and performers have adapted to the pandemic by offering virtual shows and concerts that you can enjoy from the comfort of your home. Research your favorite artists or discover new ones and book tickets for a virtual show. Set up a cozy space, get dressed up, and create a concert-like atmosphere in your own living room. Sing along, dance, and let the music transport you to a magical world of celebration and love.
Play online games or trivia
For couples who enjoy a little friendly competition, playing online games or trivia can be a delightful way to celebrate your anniversary. There are numerous online platforms that offer multiplayer games and trivia challenges that you can enjoy together. From classic board games like Scrabble or Monopoly to interactive trivia games, the options are endless. Challenge each other’s knowledge, engage in friendly banter, and have a blast competing for the title of champion. It’s a light-hearted and fun way to celebrate your love and create some unforgettable memories.
Outdoor and Socially Distanced Activities
Have a picnic in the park
If you’re fortunate enough to have access to outdoor spaces, a picnic in the park can be a lovely and socially distanced way to celebrate your anniversary. Pack a delicious picnic lunch with all your favorite treats, grab a cozy blanket, and head to a nearby park. Find a secluded spot where you can enjoy each other’s company and the beauty of nature. Take this opportunity to reconnect, play games, and simply enjoy being in each other’s presence. It’s a serene and romantic way to celebrate your special day while taking in the fresh air and sunshine.
Go for a hike or nature walk
Escape the confines of your home and get out into nature for a memorable anniversary celebration. Research nearby hiking trails or nature reserves and embark on a scenic adventure together. Lace-up your hiking boots, pack some snacks and water, and hit the trails hand-in-hand. As you explore the great outdoors, take in the breathtaking views, listen to the sounds of nature, and enjoy each other’s company. It’s a rejuvenating and peaceful way to celebrate your love while getting some fresh air and exercise.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard
If you live near a body of water, renting a kayak or paddleboard can be a thrilling and active way to celebrate your anniversary. Spend the day exploring the calm waters, navigating through scenic spots, and enjoying the serenity of being on the water. Whether you’re racing each other or leisurely paddling side by side, the experience will surely create cherished memories. Don’t forget to capture the beauty of the moment with some photos or videos to look back on. It’s a refreshing and adventurous way to celebrate your love for each other and the wonders of nature.
Visit a drive-in theater
For a nostalgic and unique anniversary celebration, consider visiting a drive-in theater. With the pandemic changing the way we experience entertainment, drive-in theaters have made a comeback. Check local listings for drive-in movie screenings and choose a film that holds significance to your relationship or simply enjoy a new release. Pack your favorite movie snacks, blankets, and pillows, and cozy up in your car as you enjoy the film from the comfort of your vehicle. It’s a throwback experience that will transport you to simpler times and create a memorable anniversary celebration.
Go stargazing
There’s something undeniably romantic about stargazing, and your anniversary is the perfect occasion to indulge in this enchanting activity. Find a secluded spot away from city lights, spread out a blanket, and lie down together to marvel at the night sky. Try to identify constellations, spot shooting stars, and simply relish in the beauty of the universe above. Use stargazing apps or do some prior research to deepen your knowledge of the cosmos and make the experience even more engaging. It’s a tranquil and awe-inspiring way to celebrate your love while being surrounded by the vastness of the universe.
Romantic At-Home Ideas
Cook a gourmet meal together
Turn your anniversary into a culinary adventure by cooking a gourmet meal together. Choose a recipe that you’ve both been wanting to try or one that holds sentimental value to your relationship. Gather the ingredients, put on your aprons, and work side by side to create a delicious masterpiece. Experiment with flavors, savor the aroma filling your kitchen, and enjoy the process of creating something special together. Once the meal is ready, set a beautifully decorated table, light some candles, and indulge in the fruits of your labor. It’s not just about the food but also the love and effort you put into making the meal that makes it extra special.
Create a DIY spa day
Pamper yourselves and create a blissful spa day at home for your anniversary. Transform your bathroom into a soothing oasis with scented candles, relaxing music, and plush towels. Prepare some homemade face masks, scrubs, and bath salts using natural ingredients. Take turns giving each other massages, indulge in luxurious baths, and simply unwind and recharge together. Let the stresses of everyday life melt away as you focus on self-care and rejuvenation. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate your love while treating yourselves to some well-deserved relaxation and pampering.
Have a backyard camping adventure
Rekindle the spirit of adventure by having a backyard camping adventure for your anniversary. Set up a tent in your backyard, complete with cozy blankets, pillows, and twinkling string lights to create a magical ambiance. Prepare a picnic-style dinner and roast marshmallows over a fire pit or grill. As the sun sets, immerse yourselves in the coziness of the tent, tell stories, play games, and enjoy each other’s company under the starry night sky. Falling asleep to the sounds of nature and waking up to the gentle morning breeze will make this anniversary celebration truly unforgettable.
Set up a romantic indoor picnic
If outdoor picnics aren’t an option, bring the picnic indoors and set up a romantic indoor picnic for your anniversary. Clear a space in your living room or bedroom, lay out a checkered blanket, and arrange a spread of your favorite finger foods and snacks. Add some fairy lights, soft music, and candles to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Sit back, relax, and enjoy each other’s company as you savor delicious bites and share heartfelt conversations. It’s a simple yet effective way to celebrate your love while creating a romantic and memorable ambiance within the comfort of your own home.
Take a dance lesson at home
Dancing has always been a romantic and intimate way to connect with your partner, and your anniversary is the perfect time to indulge in a dance lesson. Find an online tutorial or class that teaches the dance style of your choice, whether it’s salsa, waltz, or even a fun choreography to your favorite song. Clear some space in your living room, dim the lights, and let the music guide you as you sway and twirl together. Not only will you learn a new skill as a couple, but you’ll also have a lot of fun in the process. Dance like nobody is watching and celebrate your love through the power of movement.
Alternative Date Night Ideas
Solve a virtual escape room together
If you’re looking for an exciting and immersive anniversary experience, try solving a virtual escape room together. Many escape room companies have adapted to the online world and offer virtual experiences that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home. Work as a team to solve puzzles, decipher clues, and unravel the mystery within the allotted time. The adrenaline rush and sense of accomplishment when you succeed will make for a thrilling and memorable celebration. It’s an exciting way to challenge your problem-solving skills as a couple and create lasting memories.
Have a themed costume night
Inject some fun and playfulness into your anniversary by having a themed costume night. Choose a theme that you both find exciting, such as favorite movies, historical eras, or even superheroes. Spend the day preparing your costumes, including makeup and accessories, and transform yourselves into different characters. Complete the evening by hosting a costume party for two, complete with decorations, music, and themed snacks. It’s a fantastic way to let your imaginations run wild, unleash your inner child, and celebrate your anniversary with laughter and creativity.
Try a DIY paint and sip session
Unleash your inner artists and have a DIY paint and sip session for your anniversary. Set up a painting station in your home with easels, canvases, brushes, and acrylic paints. Choose a picture or scene that holds special meaning to your relationship or simply follow an online tutorial. Pour yourselves a glass of your favorite beverage and let the creativity flow as you paint side by side. It’s not about creating a masterpiece but rather the process of creating together and enjoying a relaxing and artistic experience. Celebrate your love and artistic talents in a unique and personal way.
Write and perform a love song or poem
If you have a knack for music or writing, consider writing and performing a love song or poem for your anniversary. Pour your heart into lyrics or verses that express your love and appreciation for your partner. You can create a heartfelt ballad, a catchy tune, or even a spoken-word piece. Practice your creation together and perform it for each other in a private and intimate setting. The vulnerability and creativity involved in this activity will deepen your connection and create a truly personal and sentimental anniversary experience.
Take a virtual cooking or mixology class
Expand your culinary skills and take a virtual cooking or mixology class for your anniversary. Many renowned chefs and bartenders offer online classes where you can learn new recipes and techniques from the comfort of your own kitchen. Choose a cuisine or cocktail that you’ve always wanted to master or surprise your partner with their favorite dish. Follow the instructor’s guidance, experiment with flavors, and indulge in the delicious results of your efforts. It’s a wonderful way to bond over a shared activity and create a special anniversary meal or cocktail together.
Surprise and Sentimental Gestures
Create a personalized photo album or video montage
Take a trip down memory lane and create a personalized photo album or video montage for your anniversary. Gather your favorite photos and videos that capture your journey as a couple. Arrange them in a chronological or thematic order and add captions or voiceovers to accompany the visuals. Whether it’s a physical album or a digital montage, the effort and thoughtfulness behind this gesture will surely touch your partner’s heart. Relive your cherished moments together and celebrate the love you’ve built over time.
Plan a surprise delivery or virtual serenade
Surprise your partner with a heartfelt delivery or virtual serenade for your anniversary. Arrange for a bouquet of their favorite flowers, a box of their preferred treats, or a special gift to be delivered to their doorstep. Alternatively, surprise them with a virtual serenade where you or a professional musician perform a song that holds meaning to your relationship. Coordinate with a local performer or musician to create a personalized and intimate musical experience for your partner. The element of surprise will make your anniversary celebration even more magical and memorable.
Write love letters to each other
In this age of instant communication, take the time to write heartfelt love letters to each other for your anniversary. Express your deepest emotions, recount your favorite memories, and articulate why you love and appreciate your partner. Put pen to paper and let your words flow freely, capturing the essence of your love in written form. Exchange the letters on your anniversary and take turns reading them aloud to each other. It’s a profoundly intimate and sentimental gesture that will deepen your connection and serve as a beautiful keepsake for years to come.
Recreate your first date or significant moment
Relive the magic of your first date or another significant moment in your relationship by recreating it for your anniversary. Recreate the ambiance, the activities, and even the outfits to transport yourselves back to that special time. Whether it’s recreating the first meal you shared, revisiting the location where you first met, or even restaging a particular event, the effort and attention to detail will make this anniversary celebration truly exceptional. Reminisce together, share stories, and marvel at how far you’ve come as a couple.
Make a time capsule together
Celebrate your love and create a time capsule together for your anniversary. Gather items that represent your relationship, such as photographs, letters, small trinkets, or significant mementos. Find a sturdy container and fill it with these treasures, sealing it shut to be opened on a future anniversary. Reflect on your relationship, your hopes for the future, and the growth you envision for yourselves as a couple. Bury the time capsule in a special place together, symbolizing the love and memories you’ve shared and the anticipation of what lies ahead.
Gift Ideas for Anniversary
Customize a piece of jewelry
For a timeless and personal anniversary gift, consider customizing a piece of jewelry for your partner. Whether it’s a necklace, bracelet, or ring, choose a design that suits their style and have it engraved with a special message or important date. Opt for meaningful gemstones or birthstones that hold significance to your relationship. The thought and effort put into a customized piece of jewelry will make it a cherished keepsake and a constant reminder of the love you share.
Order a subscription box
If your partner enjoys surprises, consider gifting them a subscription box tailored to their interests for your anniversary. From gourmet food and wine to books, beauty products, or even a monthly date night package, there are numerous subscription services available. Choose one that aligns with their passions or hobbies and provide them with a gift that keeps on giving beyond your anniversary. Each delivery will be a delightful reminder of your love and thoughtfulness.
Gift personalized artwork or home decor
Add a touch of elegance and sentimentality to your partner’s living space by gifting them personalized artwork or home decor. Commission a local artist to create a unique piece of art that reflects your love story, such as a portrait, a painting of a special location, or a custom-made sculpture. Alternatively, choose personalized home decor items, such as engraved photo frames, custom-made pillows, or monogrammed pieces. The attention to detail and personalization will make these gifts truly special and a beautiful addition to your partner’s home.
Plan a future trip or experience
If travel is restricted during your anniversary, plan a future trip or experience together to look forward to. Research dream destinations or exciting activities and create an itinerary for a future adventure. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a thrilling outdoor excursion, or an immersive cultural experience, the act of planning and dreaming together will ignite excitement and anticipation. Discuss your dreams and aspirations, make a bucket list, and solidify your commitment to nurturing your relationship and creating wonderful memories in the future.
Create a DIY gift or coupon book
Put your creativity to work and create a DIY gift or coupon book for your partner. Reveal your artistic skills by handcrafting a thoughtful gift, such as a scrapbook, a customized piece of artwork, or a handmade piece of jewelry. Alternatively, create a coupon book filled with personalized promises for experiences or favors that your partner can redeem throughout the year. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a weekend getaway, or a day of pampering, these customized gifts show your partner how much you care and are willing to invest in your relationship.
Engage in Meaningful Conversations
Reflect on your relationship and set goals
Use your anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on your relationship and set goals for the future. Set aside dedicated time to have open and honest conversations about your journey together. Discuss the highs and lows, the challenges and triumphs, and the growth you’ve experienced as individuals and as a couple. Take this chance to identify areas for improvement, celebrate your achievements, and establish new milestones for your relationship. By setting goals and working towards them together, you will continue to strengthen your bond and ensure a bright future ahead.
Ask each other fun and thought-provoking questions
Deepen your connection and get to know each other even better by asking fun and thought-provoking questions during your anniversary celebration. Prepare a list of questions that will spark interesting conversations and allow you to delve into each other’s thoughts and feelings. Ask about your partner’s dreams, fears, and aspirations, as well as their favorite memories and personal growth. Encourage honesty, active listening, and a judgment-free environment. These meaningful conversations will foster understanding, strengthen your emotional bond, and create a greater sense of intimacy.
Discuss and plan for the future
Your anniversary is an ideal time to discuss and plan for the future as a couple. Engage in conversations about your shared vision for your lives together. Discuss your aspirations, goals, and the milestones you’d like to achieve as a couple. Whether it’s building a family, pursuing career aspirations, or traveling the world, having these discussions allows you to align your dreams and work toward a shared future. Embrace the excitement of looking ahead, support each other’s dreams, and keep the flame of your love burning bright.
Create a vision board together
Visualize your future together by creating a vision board for your anniversary. Gather magazines, newspapers, or printouts of images that represent your aspirations and dreams as a couple. Cut out pictures, quotes, and words that resonate with each of you and arrange them on a large poster board. Whether it’s images of a dream home, a desired location to travel to, or personal growth goals, the process of creating the vision board together will inspire you both. Display the vision board in a prominent place as a daily reminder of your shared aspirations and dreams.
Take a relationship quiz or compatibility test
Add a touch of fun and discovery to your anniversary celebration by taking a relationship quiz or compatibility test. Many quizzes and tests are available online and are designed to assess various aspects of your relationship, such as communication styles, love languages, or personality traits. Delve into the questions together and discuss your responses. Explore the similarities and differences in your answers and use them as a starting point for deeper conversations. The insights gained from these quizzes can facilitate a deeper understanding and appreciation for each other.
Support Local Businesses and Artists
Order takeout or delivery from a favorite restaurant
Support local restaurants and enjoy a delicious meal by ordering takeout or delivery for your anniversary. Choose a restaurant that holds special meaning to your relationship or try a new place that you’ve been wanting to explore. Get dressed up, set a beautiful table at home, and create a restaurant-like ambiance. Indulge in a gourmet meal without having to cook or clean up afterward. By supporting local businesses, you not only enjoy a scrumptious meal but also contribute to the livelihoods of those who work hard to bring joy to their community.
Buy tickets for a virtual concert or theater show
Support artists and entertainers by buying tickets for a virtual concert or theater show for your anniversary. Many performers and theaters have moved their shows online, offering virtual experiences that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home. Research local artists or renowned performers and choose a live-streamed performance that appeals to both of you. Get dressed up, create a cozy space, and immerse yourselves in the magic of live entertainment. By supporting the arts, you help ensure the continued creativity and talent that brings joy to people’s lives.
Purchase artwork or crafts from local artists
Celebrate your anniversary by supporting local artists and adding a touch of beauty to your home. Explore local art galleries or online platforms that showcase the work of talented artists in your community. Choose a piece of artwork that resonates with you and speaks to your love for each other. Whether it’s a painting, a sculpture, or a photograph, the presence of original art in your home will not only enhance your living space but also serve as a constant reminder of your support for local talent.
Book a virtual wine or beer tasting experience
For wine or beer enthusiasts, book a virtual tasting experience for your anniversary. Many wineries and breweries offer virtual tastings where you can explore different flavors and learn about the craftsmanship behind your favorite beverages. Order a selection of wines or beers in advance and schedule a virtual tasting session. A knowledgeable guide will walk you through the tasting notes and provide insights into the production process. Sip and savor the flavors together, ask questions, and enjoy a memorable experience that supports the hard work of these artisans.
Support local musicians by listening to their music
Discover new local talent and support musicians by listening to their music for your anniversary celebration. Search for local musicians or bands in your area and explore their online platforms or streaming services. Create a playlist that includes their songs or albums and enjoy a musical journey together. Whether it’s live performances or recorded music, the joy and passion that musicians bring to their craft will enhance your anniversary celebration. By supporting these artists, you contribute to the vibrancy and diversity of your local music scene.
Have a DIY Craft Session
Make a scrapbook of memories together
Celebrate and immortalize your love story by making a scrapbook of memories together for your anniversary. Gather photographs, ticket stubs, love letters, and any other mementos that represent special moments in your relationship. Get creative with patterned papers, stickers, and decorative elements as you arrange the memories in a beautiful and personalized way. Add handwritten messages, captions, and drawings to complement the visuals. This DIY project allows you to reminisce about your journey and create a tangible keepsake that showcases your love and cherished memories.
Create a customized puzzle with a special photo
Personalize a classic form of entertainment by creating a customized puzzle with a special photo for your anniversary. Choose a significant picture, such as a favorite memory or a shared trip, and have it turned into a jigsaw puzzle. Spend the day putting the pieces together, working as a team to recreate the image. The process of solving the puzzle will symbolize your unity and the strength of your relationship. Frame the completed puzzle as a beautiful reminder of your love and the fun and challenging moments you’ve faced together.
Paint or draw portraits of each other
Tap into your artistic abilities and create portraits of each other for your anniversary. Set up easels, choose your preferred medium (acrylic, watercolor, pencil, etc.), and dedicate time to capturing each other’s likeness on canvas or paper. Don’t worry about being a professional artist; the effort and thought put into this gesture will be appreciated. The act of focusing on your partner’s features and bringing them to life through art will deepen your connection and provide a unique and personal anniversary gift.
Make personalized anniversary cards or love notes
Express your love and creativity by making personalized anniversary cards or love notes for your partner. Gather colorful papers, pens, markers, and decorative elements to create handmade cards filled with heartfelt messages. Write love notes, poems, or letters that convey your deepest emotions and appreciation for your partner. Leave these personalized cards or notes in unexpected places throughout your home, such as in their closet, on their favorite book, or even in their lunch bag. These small gestures will make your partner feel loved, cherished, and reminded of the depth of your affection.
Design and make matching couple T-shirts
Show off your unity and celebrate your love by designing and making matching couple T-shirts for your anniversary. Purchase plain T-shirts in colors of your choice and gather fabric paints, markers, or iron-on transfer paper. Let your creativity shine as you design custom graphics, write meaningful phrases, or incorporate symbols that represent your relationship. Wear your personalized creations together, and let the world see your love and connection. It’s a playful and visual way to celebrate your anniversary and showcase your enduring bond.
Celebrate with a Charitable Act
Volunteer together at a local charity or organization
Make your anniversary celebration meaningful by volunteering together at a local charity or organization. Research causes that are close to your hearts and find ways to contribute your time and skills. Whether it’s serving at a soup kitchen, organizing donation drives, or participating in community beautification projects, the act of giving back will strengthen your bond while making a positive impact on others. By supporting and uplifting your community, you’ll create cherished memories and celebrate your love through acts of kindness.
Donate to a cause that is important to both of you
For a meaningful anniversary gesture, donate to a cause that is close to both of your hearts. Identify organizations or initiatives that align with your values, such as charities focused on education, healthcare, or environmental conservation. Choose a cause that holds significance to your relationship or represents shared passions. You can make a monetary donation or donate needed supplies or resources. By giving back to causes you both care about, you celebrate your love by making a positive difference in the world.
Host a virtual fundraising event or live stream
Combine your anniversary celebration with a fundraising event or live stream for a cause that you both support. Use your special day as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for an important organization. Coordinate with the charity to set up a virtual event, such as a talent show, a cooking demonstration, or a live-streamed concert. Allocate a portion of the funds raised as your anniversary gift to the cause. By using your platform to make a difference, you amplify the impact of your celebration and create a legacy of love and kindness.
Write thank-you notes to essential workers
Express gratitude and celebrate your anniversary by writing thank-you notes to essential workers. In times of crisis, these frontline heroes tirelessly work to keep others safe and provide essential services. Take the time to acknowledge their dedication and sacrifices by writing heartfelt messages of appreciation. Handwrite your notes, detailing how their hard work has made a difference in your life and the lives of others. Mail these notes to local hospitals, grocery stores, or any other organization that employs essential workers. Your small gesture of thanks will go a long way in brightening someone’s day and celebrating the spirit of compassion.
Create care packages for those in need
Spread love and kindness on your anniversary by creating care packages for those in need. Identify local shelters, nursing homes, or organizations that support vulnerable communities. Put together care packages filled with essential items, comforting treats, and handwritten notes of encouragement. Personalize each package based on the recipient’s needs, such as including warm socks for the homeless or puzzle books for the elderly. Deliver the care packages together and celebrate your love by bringing joy and comfort to those who need it most.
In conclusion, celebrating your anniversary during a pandemic doesn’t have to be any less memorable or special. By embracing creativity, connection, and thoughtfulness, you can create unique and meaningful experiences that celebrate your love and strengthen your bond. Whether through virtual celebrations, outdoor activities, romantic at-home ideas, alternative date night activities, surprise gestures, charitable acts, or engaging conversations, you have countless opportunities to make this anniversary a truly unforgettable one. So go ahead and explore these ideas, adapt them to your preferences, and make your anniversary a joyful celebration of your love.