Valentine’s Day is tomorrow, which means love is in the air…along with panic, last-minute planning, and several situationships about to be exposed. If you live in Lubbock, you already know that this holiday hits a little different around here. Romance in West Texas comes with questionable restaurants, at least a few people saying, “I don’t really celebrate.” (liars), and it looks like this V-Day we may even see a little rain…

So, let’s talk for a second about red flags.

I don’t mean the obvious ones. I mean the Lubbock-specific ones.

Photo by أخٌ‌في‌الله on Unsplash

If they say, “We’ll see” when you ask about Valentine’s Day plans, that’s a soft launch into disappointment. “We’ll see” is code for “I did not plan anything and I am hoping you will forget about this conversation altogether.”

Photo by Madison Oren on Unsplash

Another red flag? Suggesting Buffalo Wild Wings “because it’s casual.” I mean, casual is fine, but casual on Valentine’s Day with a two-hour wait and sports games blasting in the background is the opposite of romance. It’s more like an endurance test.

Photo by C. G. on Unsplash

If your date calls it “Valentimes,” RUN. Don’t walk. Don’t even explain yourself. Just get.

Photo by Anh Tuan To on Unsplash

If they insist that Valentine’s Day is “just a corporate holiday, blah blah blah…”, that’s just code for “I’m broke, and simply unwilling to admit it. Instead, I’ll do my best to look superior to the entire ordeal.”

You can, however, use this to your advantage by saying something like, “Oh, my love is free, honey. You can show me how much you love me by taking out the trash, doing the dishes, and cooking dinner for once.”

Then, at least you’ll get a few chores done around the house and a no-fuss meal, if nothing else. Win.

Photo by Denise Jans on Unsplash

Not every Valentine’s Day needs to be perfect, but if your date comes with confusion, low effort, and a side of hot wings, you might want to reconsider…

Choose wisely, Lubbock! Have fun and don’t take yourself too seriously. <3

Keep scrolling for more Lubbock love in the galleries below…

What Went Wrong on Your Date? Lubbock Has Stories

Happily ever after is harder to find in Lubbock than you think.

Gallery Credit: Chrissy

Great Local Lubbock Places for a Date That Go Beyond Restaurants

Looking for a great date that isn’t fine dining and roses? Here are some cute, out-of-the-box ideas for dates in Lubbock.

Gallery Credit: Renee Raven