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happy couple two fingers via Shutterstock

Valentine's treats that won't cost more than a supersized Coke*

We’ve done the thinking so you don’t have to. (*well, a little more)

THIS THURSDAY ISN’T just any ‘ol Thursday. It is, of course, Valentine’s Day.

On a day when singletons get to do whatever the hell they like, couples are faced with a difficult balancing act between expressing their feeling and not melting their credit cards.

Still feeling the Christmas pinch, we here at TheJournal.ie HQ feel your pain and have some ideas that won’t break the bank.

If none of these tickle your fancy, remember that a simple expression of love should be enough… shouldn’t it?

The cinema

Yes, the cinema. The preserve of many a wonderful first (or second, or third…) date, it does still exist, you know.

Sure, it may cost the same as a meal out, but at least you know you’ll get to keep your seats for the duration of the film, which is probably longer than a restaurant will give you on the night.

Nothing, and we mean nothing, shows affection like a two-litre drink and a ridiculously sized bucket of popcorn.

For the full effect, this will be in the cinema by then. You’re welcome.

(FilmsActu Movie Trailers/YouTube)

After all, ‘Yippee Ki-Yay’ does rhyme with ‘Valentine’s Day’. If that isn’t a sign, we don’t know what is.

Poetry in motion

For those who want a little more culture in their Thursday night, the Cork Poetry Festival is running from the 13-16 February. With readings, film and music on offer, there is something for everyone.

Before you know it, you’ll have penned your own ‘roses are red’ four-liner, which should give whoever comes up with it first brownie points for life.

Dance

Sometimes you just need to dance. While the dance moves themselves may be classed as a crime against humanity, the aim of One Billion Rising is far better for the species, with hopes of getting one billion women (and the people who love them) dancing to mark the 15th anniversary of violence against women day.

When was the last time that you danced for a good cause?

If that doesn’t satify your urges (dancing urges, obviously), your very own Valentine’s céilí awaits you. And the best bit is, it’s free.

Have a ball for charity

There is a band in Ireland called Fraggle Rock. This we can confirm.

If the name alone doesn’t make you want to get yourself to Athenry in Co Galway this Thursday, maybe doing your bit for charidee will – the Valentine’s charity ball that they’re playing at is in aid of Cancer Care West and the Irish Heart Foundation.

It’s not just for Christmas, you know.

(Deus Ex Nihilum/YouTube)

Say hello to the man himself

Well, kinda.

Did you know that the Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church in Dublin 2 contains the relics of none other than St Valentine?

Well now you know. A word of warning, however. People have been known to get engaged here… so, eh, no pressure.

(Deidre Moran, from Castlebar, Co Mayo, and Stephen Long, from Dunboyne, Co Meath, in Whitefriar Carmelite Church on Aungier Street, Dublin, where Father David Weakliam hosted a special blessing of the rings ceremony with the engaged couple at the Shrine of Saint Valentine. Pic: Julien Behal/PA Wire)

What are your plans for this Thursday? Let us know in the comments.

Read: Which town is the most romantic in Ireland? >

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