Young Americans Blend Old and New Valentine's Day Traditions, Valuing Desserts, and Gifts as Ways of Celebrating Love, Revealed by a OnePoll Survey for HI-CHEW.
Valentine's Day, a celebration of love and affection, is eagerly anticipated by dating Americans, especially those hailing from the Millennial and Gen Z cohorts. A comprehensive survey involving 2,000 singles seeking partners sheds light on what constitutes the ideal Valentine's Day date for these groups, revealing preferences that blend tradition with contemporary desires.
The survey, meticulously conducted by OnePoll on behalf of HI-CHEW candy, reveals that nearly three in five dating Americans (58%) designate dessert as the date's pinnacle. This sweet conclusion underscores the enduring appeal of ending romantic evenings on a sugary note. However, the perfect date encompasses more than just the final course. According to 40% of respondents, the quintessential Valentine’s Day experience begins with the gifting of flowers or a thoughtful present, accompanied by the chivalrous act of being picked up from one’s home, as preferred by 33%.
The essence of the date, as per 59% of those surveyed, lies in dining out, while a significant portion (33%) finds solace in the shared experience of watching a movie. The culmination of the date, however, is where personal preferences distinctly emerge. While nearly half (48%) yearn for alone time with their date, a close 43% look forward to a goodnight kiss, highlighting the diverse expectations tied to personal connections and intimacy.
This year, an overwhelming 80% of respondents have expressed their intention to celebrate Valentine’s Day, with 63% opting for an outing and 20% preferring the comfort of their home. A notable trend among Millennials is the inclination towards an overnight getaway, a choice favored by a third of this demographic and slightly less (24%) by Gen Z counterparts.
For those who planned a cozy night in, the agenda is clear: indulging in movies or TV shows (61%), preparing a special dinner (59%), and fostering intimacy (51%). Desserts and candy, as expected, remain an integral part of the celebration for 38% of respondents.
Amidst these findings, a representative from HI-CHEW encourages embracing the new alongside the traditional to make this Valentine’s Day memorable. Whether it's experimenting with new desserts, exploring uncharted romantic comedies, or simply enjoying the company of a loved one, the essence of Valentine’s Day remains steadfast: a celebration of love, in all its forms and flavors.
As we mark the sweetest day of the year, these insights not only reflect the evolving preferences of Millennials and Gen Z but also underscore the timeless nature of love—marked by gifts, shared experiences, and the pursuit of meaningful connections. Whether stepping out into the night or crafting the perfect evening in, it's clear that Valentine’s Day remains a cherished occasion, celebrated in myriad ways by America’s young hearts.