The Ideal Way to Spend Valentine's Day, According to Your Sun Sign

Valentine's Day is easy to love or hate, often depending on your relationship status. When you're single, you might be all about embracing Galentine's Day with your BFFs. Attached? Maybe you're looking forward to receiving a breathtakingly colorful bouquet from your partner or sharing a box of decadent sweets. Either way, you'll do well to look to the sky for insight into your ideal Valentine's Day plans.

Although it's just one small part of your personal astrology, your Sun sign — the sign you likely refer to yourself as based on your birth date — does play a major part in who you are at your core, shaping your sense of self and identity, individual style, vitality, self-esteem, and confidence.

The quality of your Sun sign offers helpful intel, too. Each element (fire, earth, air, water) has a fixed sign (Leo, Taurus, Aquarius, Scorpio), a cardinal sign (Aries, Capricorn, Libra, Cancer), and a mutable sign (Sagittarius, Virgo, Gemini, Pisces). The fixed crew are known as the most likely to be resolute, often refusing to budge on their view or plan; the cardinal group tends to initiate projects and offer a big-picture perspective, but can lack follow-through; the mutable club is the most adaptable but also changeable. (Related: Guide to the 12 Zodiac Signs and Their Meanings)

You can look to your powerful, personal astrological wiring for insight on your preferences any time of year and it can be especially useful when coordinating your perfect V-Day. (And, ahem, your sign can point you in the direction of an amazing sex position, too.) Here, how every sign — single or coupled — can make the most of the mushy mid-winter holiday.

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

Aries (March 21–April 19)

Single: As a fire sign and the first sign of the zodiac, you love to jump on the latest trends, being the first to try, see, do, or experience just about anything—from the new crop-top trend to the buzzy, just-opened outdoor bar in your city. Grab a couple of your single BFFs and snag reservations at (or takeout from) that hot new restaurant everyone's been talking about. Think: A brunch replete with glasses of rosé before some friend- and bubbly-fueled online shopping to curate your spring lewk.

Coupled: Ruled by Mars, the planet of action, you're innately competitive, driven to play and win. Get your adrenaline pumping alongside your partner by making a date to cheer on your favorite sports team. As the cardinal fire sign, you're all about making grand plans and getting physical, so set the stage for steaminess by heading out for a run and working up a sweat together. (FYI, exercising works really well as foreplay.)

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

Taurus (April 20–May 20)

Single: As the fixed one in the earth crew, you have distinct, concrete opinions—and one of those is that you deserve to treat yourself! Whether you have your friends over or fly solo on V-Day, you'll be most blissed out by staying on your home turf, enjoying a beloved wine or CBD product, ordering your go-to comfort food (think: pizza, truffle mac 'n' cheese, ramen), and watching movies or shows you've seen at least 1,000 times. Hey, you already know this game plan is 10/10, and there's nothing wrong with that.

Coupled: Ruled by relationship-oriented Venus, the planet of love and beauty, you'll undoubtedly want to amplify the romance with your sweetheart. Your best bet: Go pick up or order delivery of your favorite luxe dessert, and get home early enough to plant yourself on the couch to binge Cheer or YOU on Netflix with all the cozy blankets and maybe your fave vino. Given your grounded and sensual nature, indulging then maximizing comfy time at home—where snuggling can slowly morph into languorous lovemaking—will make you happiest.

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

Gemini (May 21–June 20)

Single: Thanks to your curious, buzzing mind and social butterfly nature, you're the queen of having a packed calendar. So, chances are you already have a tentative game plan in place. And as the mutable air sign, tentative is what you prefer. Whether you're aiming to meet up for a socially distanced cocktail, concert, or brunch with your besties, you'll be open to seeing where the moment leads. Embrace it, as that's the way you're bound to have the most fun. (Related: How to Decode Zodiac Sign Compatibility)

Coupled: Ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication, lively, animated conversation is basically your version of an aphrodisiac. Although you'd be content to enjoy that with your sweetheart one-on-one, you'd be even more over-the-moon to spend time together and with friends. Plan a virtual group date (think: game night or a mixology class) with a few other couples. Having the opp to connect with your wider social circle and build on all your bonds makes for a memorable time.

Cancer (June 21–July 22)

Single: It's fitting that you're repped by the Crab, Cancer, because you have a protective, hard-shell exterior you'll hide behind. In reality, you're a mush who easily falls into all the feels. See if you can own that endearing aspect of yourself this V-Day by spending time with loved ones — family or friends who are basically your family — enjoying your favorite meal together, whether safely socially distanced or over Zoom. Whether you're catching up over pasta and wine outdoors at your fave Italian spot or staying in to make that recipe that's been passed down through generations, you're the first to admit that it's possible to express what's in your heart through delicious food.

Coupled: As a deeply feeling water sign ruled by the maternal moon (which serves as the astrological emotional compass), you're motivated to take care of your partner — and, let's be honest, you're a foodie. Spend Valentine's Day cooking up a meal you both adore. Or, if you're burned out in the kitchen, ordering a gourmet meal. Connecting in this way can set the tone for more sensual pleasures you're a fan of, like making out for hours or taking a bath together.

Leo (July 23–August 22)

Single: As the ruler of the fifth house of romance, you might (secretly or not-so-secretly) wish for the Hollywood version of V-Day, complete with roses, fine dining, and dramatic declarations of love. But your fun-loving, fiery nature makes it easy for you to make the most of your current situation, which could look like perusing your favorite online boutique for pretty new bling or doing a home spa day with your BFF while re-watching Bridgerton. As long as you're tapping into that desire to feel regal, you'll be content.

Coupled: Ruled by the confidence-bolstering sun itself, you're all about living life to the fullest, which often means gravitating to all things luxurious and posh. Treating your partner and yourself to upscale pleasures often helps you set the tone for romance. Warm-up by giving one other full-body massages and sipping on champagne, then explore that over-the-top role-play or exhibitionistic fantasy you've been dreaming about. You know you deserve it.

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

Virgo (August 23–September 22)

Single: When asked what your favorite hobby is, you might very well say self-improvement — unironically. As the mutable, pragmatic earth sign, ruled by the communication planet Mercury, you're health-conscious and dig researching everyday ways to feel your best. Tailor your V-Day to suit this natural inclination by checking out that new yoga streaming service or booking a virtual class with your go-to meditation instructor, then treating yourself to a cold-pressed juice or an inventive cocktail made with fresh muddled fruit. Pleasures that excite and soothe you mentally and physically will be especially satisfying.

Coupled: The ruler of the sixth house of wellness and daily routine, you take pride in working on your wellness and being of service to others. For that reason, it's likely that you show your S.O. how much you care by reading studies to find them the perfect immune-boosting herb or baking up a healthier version of their favorite cookies. Make the most of V-Day by spending time scouring a local farmer's market and picking out all the prettiest winter produce before heading home to pull together a healthy, farm-to-table meal together. You'll feel accomplished and even more connected.

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

Libra (September 23–October 22)

Single: The cardinal air sign ruled by social, beauty-loving Venus, you're a major fan of any and every excuse to connect with others, whether you're hosting a party or greeting new people while out and about. Treat yourself to a blowout and mani (if that's considered COVID-safe in your area), then grab to-go cocktails from that hot new bar with your single GFs. Enjoying one another's company and being in the moment will be enough, but you could also find yourself flirting up a storm with that cutie you connected with on the apps. You'll be right in your element.

Coupled: Not only is Libra ruled by Venus, the planet of love, but it oversees the seventh house of partnership — so Valentine's Day was pretty much made for you. You'll be most satisfied if your S.O. acknowledges that by planning an old-school romantic evening. From a fancy meal to thoughtful, heartfelt gifts (a bouquet of your fave flowers), you're hoping your partner pulls out all the stops. Do the same in return, and you'll both feel swept away.

Scorpio (October 23–November 21)

Single: An emotional water sign that's co-ruled by action-oriented, sexy Mars and transformative Pluto, you're positively in touch with your sexuality and deepest desires. If swiping through possible matches on the apps doesn't translate to a hot date or hook-up on V-Day, you could be frustrated and in your feelings (like fellow Scorp Drake). But try to see the lovefest as an opp to amplify the way you love yourself. You could find you're perfectly satisfied by exploring your current fantasies through solo play — and maybe taking that new toy or lubricant for a test drive.

Coupled: Connecting with your partner in the bedroom — in a way that feels gratifying not only physically but emotionally and mentally — is a must for you, as the ruler of the eighth house of sexual intimacy and emotional bonds. You'd be thrilled with a sumptuous meal (preferably one you've had time and time again, as you know and tend to stick with what you like); however, you'll be even more pleased to devote time to fulfilling a longtime fantasy, experimenting with a fetish, or switching up your typical foreplay. When it comes to elevating your sex play and intimacy, V-Day's as good an excuse as any.

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

Sagittarius (November 22–December 21)

Single: As the mutable fire sign ruled by joyful, expansive Jupiter, it's natural for you to feel optimistic and fortunate. You're also into going big — sometimes to extremes, but hey, as long as you're having fun! Your YOLO attitude could inform spontaneous moves, and on V-Day, you might be tempted to hop in a car with your besties and check out a neighboring area you've never explored before. Whether you find yourself doing an outdoor wine tasting or combing through a local art fair, you're bound to make new friends along the way.

Coupled: As the ruling sign of the ninth house of adventure and higher learning, you gravitate to eye-opening opportunities that allow you to broaden your mind and fulfill your wanderlust. If grabbing your passport and heading somewhere far away isn't quite an option, you might want to hit the road to enjoy a safe wintry weekend getaway with your partner. Trying — and learning about — exotic foods and drinks, taking in local art or architecture, and getting swept up in stimulating, philosophical conversations with your sweetheart can feel fully enlivened.

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

Capricorn (December 22–January 19)

Single: Ruled by taskmaster Saturn — the planet of rules, regulations, and slow, steady hard work — you're a pragmatist and traditionalist at heart. Meaning: You're definitely into the classic trappings of V-Day. Yes, you can embrace those while flying solo on the holiday...by treating yourself to a sweat-dripping, heart-thumping workout. You love a challenge, so working one-on-one with a personal trainer or trying a new hiking route is right up your alley, and can leave you feeling accomplished, centered, and ready to take on any of life's curveballs.

Coupled: Hopefully, you and your S.O. are both fans of spending time getting physical outside. After all, as an earth sign, you feel most at peace and grounded when you're out and about in nature. That said you might enjoy sharing one of these pastimes with your partner: Try a challenging hike and/or a picnic for two out in your favorite forest preserve or community park. If it's especially wintry out, go skiing or have a good, old-fashioned snowball fight, then head inside and snuggle up while sipping your fave drink — whether that's green tea, an Old Fashioned, or hot cocoa with plenty of marshmallows.

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

Aquarius (January 20–February 18)

Single: Ruled by game-changer, eccentric Uranus, you're not a fan of convention whatsoever, preferring to let your freak flag fly whenever possible...and you tend to be naturally cynical. For those reasons, you're the first sign to roll your eyes at V-Day. But you can still celebrate your way buying some cheeky anti-V-Day merch or showing love for people in your community by signing up for a volunteer event. Despite your desire to strike out on your own, you're also a humanitarian and light up when you give back.

Coupled: As an air sign and ruler of the eleventh house of networking and friendship, you tend to rack up platonic connections, which means you often have a ton of invitations to choose from. Spending time with friends and your S.O. is totally an option you'd adore, but so too would be leaning into your quirky interests by binge-watching your fave sci-fi flicks, taking a virtual science museum tour, or tuning in for a streamed indie band concert or stand-up act you're wild about.

Pisces (February 19–March 20)

Single: As the mutable water sign and the last sign of the zodiac, you're empathetic and creative. Expressing yourself through various art forms — from theater or poetry to dance — can help you work through often deeply-felt emotions. On V-Day, owning and fueling this need serves you well. Consider this your excuse to invest in a new artistic quarantine hobby, whether it's learning to play a new instrument, paint with watercolors painting, or embroider. Indulging your powerful imagination in these ways can boost your confidence and centeredness.

Coupled: Ruled by Neptune, the planet of dreams, you're the definition of a hopeless romantic whose head is in the clouds. The same energy that fuels your escapism can be channeled toward spiritual pursuits, which could serve as a beautiful way to connect with your S.O. Tune into that sharp intuition of yours to see if an activity like a virtual Tantric sex class, reiki session, or sound bath feels like the right way to spend the holiday with your sweetheart. Or maybe you want to experiment with aromatherapy or try a meditation app. Either way, a soulful, sensual pastime can bring you even closer.

Maressa Brown is a writer and astrologer with more than 15 years of experience. In addition to being Shape's resident astrologer, she contributes to InStyle, Parents, Astrology.com, and more. Follow her Instagram and Twitter at @MaressaSylvie.