When Valentine’s Day rolls around, it’s easy to feel the pressure to buy gifts—cute stuffed animals, heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, or matching pink pajamas. And while there’s nothing wrong with those, I realized a while back that what my girls remember most isn’t what they get, but how we spend the day together.
So instead of buying gifts for my five daughters, we started a new tradition: a huge Valentine’s Ice Cream Bar! It’s fun, simple, and honestly… way more exciting than another teddy bear.
Why an Ice Cream Bar?
Because, let’s be real—what kid (or adult) doesn’t love ice cream? There’s something so special about laying out all the flavors and toppings, letting everyone build their dream sundae, and just enjoying the moment together.
But beyond the treats, this tradition reminds my girls that Valentine’s Day isn’t about things—it’s about love. And love, to me, looks a lot like five giggling girls covered in sprinkles, swapping spoons, and making the biggest, messiest sundaes they can.
How to Set Up a Fun and Easy Valentine’s Ice Cream Bar
If you’re looking for a simple but memorable way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your kids, create your own ice cream bar at home!
Gather the Essentials
✔️ Ice Cream Flavors – I like to grab a mix of classics and a couple of fun ones like cookie dough or cookies & cream. Bonus points for a festive pink or red flavor! We always splurge for our favorite ice cream on Valentine’s Day.
✔️ Toppings, Toppings, Toppings! – The more, the better! Some of our favorites we’ve tried:
- Crushed Oreos
- Mini marshmallows
- Gummy bears
- Chocolate chips
- Caramel and hot fudge drizzle
- Chopped nuts
- Whipped cream
- Sprinkles (because it’s Valentine’s Day, after all!)
✔️ Fun Bowls & Spoons – I love using cute little ice cream cups or even waffle bowls for an extra treat.
✔️ Drinks – A simple fruit punch or strawberry milk adds a fun touch!
Let the Kids Take Over
The best part? Letting the kids go wild! I set everything up buffet-style and let them create their sundaes however they want. Sure, someone will inevitably add way too many sprinkles, and another will mix gummy bears with caramel sauce (questionable choice, but okay), but that’s part of the fun!
I don’t stress over perfection or aesthetics—this is all about them and making memories together.
Enjoy the Moment
Once everyone has their sundaes, we all sit together and just enjoy. Sometimes we watch a fun movie, sometimes we just talk. No phones, no distractions—just us. And honestly? That’s what makes this tradition so special.
Years from now, my girls might not remember what they got for Valentine’s Day when they were little, but I know they’ll remember this—the laughter, the sugar rush, and the simple joy of being together.
So if you’re looking for a sweet, stress-free way to celebrate with your family, give this a try next Valentine’s Day! Let me know your favorite ice cream topping and if you try an ice cream bar!