Valentine Day Food Deals: Save on Romance This Year!

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and while expressing your love is priceless, the cost of celebrating doesn’t have to be! This year, Americans are expected to spend a record-breaking $29.1 billion on Valentine’s Day, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF), surpassing last year’s $27.5 billion. With shoppers planning to spend an average of nearly $200 – up from $189 in 2023 – it’s more important than ever to find ways to save.

Why is Valentine’s Day More Expensive This Year?

Inflation continues to impact consumer spending. Candy prices have risen by 10% over the past year, and dining out costs have increased by 4.1%, according to the latest Consumer Price Index report from the Department of Labor. In fact, a WalletHub survey revealed that 40% of consumers find Valentine’s Day activities unaffordable this year, and LendingTree found nearly half (47%) of people in relationships are struggling to afford gifts due to higher prices.

As Matt Schulz, chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree, puts it, “Most people want to give generously on Valentine’s Day, but tough times often require sacrifice. For many people, that means dialing back on holiday spending.” Even Sweethearts conversation hearts are acknowledging the economic climate with new sayings like “SPLIT RENT” and “SHARE LOGN” alongside the classics.

Sweet Deals to Celebrate Your Love

Don’t let a tight budget dampen your Valentine’s Day spirit! Here are some fantastic food deals to help you save:

• Pizza Hut: Enjoy a large 1-topping Heart-Shaped Pizza starting at just $11.99! Available until February 22nd, so procrastinators rejoice. They’re also offering a special three-course Valentine’s Meal for Two for $50 (Feb 13-15 at participating locations), including appetizer, entree, and dessert choices. Plus, a new Dubai Chocolate Espresso Martini for $10 and a free dessert bounce back card!
• Burger King: Transform your Valentine’s Day into a royal affair! Over 300 Burger King locations are becoming “Love Castles” with Valentine’s Day décor and table service. Reservations are recommended via OpenTable.com for February 14th between 4-9 p.m. local time.
• Portillo’s: Indulge in the Red Hot Meal Deal for $25, featuring eight chicken tenders and fries served in a heart-shaped tin, a large chocolate-covered strawberry shake with two straws, and a limited-edition sauce flight. You’ll also receive a free heart-shaped keychain. Don’t forget you can also ship their Heart Shaped Chocolate Cake!

With a little planning and these fantastic deals, you can create a memorable Valentine’s Day without emptying your wallet. Show your loved one how much you care, without sacrificing your financial well-being!

This story has been updated with new information. Contributing: Fernando Cervantes Jr. and Amaris Encinas, USA TODAY

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