20 Best Valentine’s Day TV Episodes

If you don’t already feel love in the air this time of year, then maybe you can see it on the screen as you watch the cutesy love-filled Valentine’s Day episodes from your favorite TV shows. Many writers take the holidays very seriously when implementing them into shows because it adds a natural timeline to the story and breaks up the everyday routine of the characters. Valentine’s Day is usually about couples getting together for dinner dates paired with flowers and chocolates, but some characters hilariously hate the adorable holiday and will happily say so to anyone who will listen.

This Valentine’s Day, if you find that you simply want to sit in front of the television with a loved one or by yourself and get in a good laugh, we suggest checking out the episodes on this list. There are plenty of characters who either love the holiday, loathe the holiday, or find some way to turn the whole day into a complete and total disaster. See which is which, and enjoy your holiday binge!

To further add to your Valentine’s Day watchlist, read more here:

20 The Office — “Valentine’s Day” (Season 2, Episode 16)

Everyone knows couples exchange gifts on Valentine’s Day— well, apparently everyone except Dwight from The Office. When Dwight receives a personalized mini-Dwight bobblehead from Angela, he is completely baffled and has nothing to give in return. Eventually, he gets the bright idea of giving her a key to his house, something that clearly took no thought, but Angela accepts it as a heartfelt gift. Meanwhile, Phyllis’ boyfriend practically bought out an entire store as her deliveries only get bigger throughout the day.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

While some people in the office are excited about the romantic holiday, the audience watches Pam, the secretary who has the pleasure of delivering everyone’s presents, get more and more frustrated because her boyfriend did not bother to get her anything. This annoyed feeling is all too relatable and a bit sad, but because it is coming from a character, it is simply a comedic situation you don’t want to miss. Stream on Peacock Premium

19 That ’70s Show — “First Date” (Season 1, Episode 16)

Eric has been pining for his neighbor Donna for quite some time by this point in That ’70s Show, and he asks her out on a proper date that just so happens to fall on Valentine’s Day, the same day Donna was supposed to study with Hyde. She agrees to go with Eric, and he has every intention of asking her to make their relationship official. Unfortunately, Hyde’s feelings for Donna come up as well, and the two best friends exchange some unpleasant words. In the end, love prevails, and Donna and Eric become a couple.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Eric and Donna are one of the most frustratingly real teenage couples in all of TV history, and watching them go back and forth in their relationship for most of the first season had fans pulling out their hair. “First Date” finally brings the two together as an official couple, and it is the start to a really beautiful, and sometimes hilarious, love story. Stream on Peacock Premium

18 New Girl — “Operation: Bobcat” (Season 6, Episode 16)

New Girl is filled with quite a few holiday episodes, but none are as sweet as “Operation: Bobcat.” Winston has a 21-stage marriage proposal plan until he gets down on one knee and asks Aly to marry him. Unfortunately, all that goes out the window when he accidentally rejects Aly’s spontaneous proposal. Jess and Winston then try to speed up his plan and get Aly to say “yes” on the most romantic day of the year. Meanwhile, Schmidt and Cece celebrate their “bone-iversary” on top of a roof and end up calling Nick to rescue them.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

From the very beginning, Winston has always been a bit more unique than his roommates. When he comes up with a plan, there is absolutely no stopping him. He loves hard, and more importantly, he deserves to be loved back with the same amount of passion. “Operation: Bobcat” is wild and chaotic, but that is just like the love shared between Aly and Winston. Stream on Hulu

17 Friends — “The One with Unagi” (Season 6, Episode 17)

Because Monica had to work on Valentine’s Day in this Friends episode, she and Chandler decided they were going to celebrate a bit later and exchange homemade presents. This idea is perfectly fine until they realize they both forgot about their little gift agreement. Chandler ends up gifting Monica a mixtape that she absolutely loves until she finds out Janice made it for Chandler years ago, and Monica gifts Chandler a sock puppet that Phoebe actually made. The rest of the gang do their own things as they have already celebrated the holiday, but Ross does learn a thing or two about strength and sushi in this episode.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Firstly, watching Rachel and Phoebe take down Ross and make him admit that they are “unagi” is something fans can watch over and over again. However, the sweet and relatable mess-up with the gifts is what really makes this a perfect Valentine’s Day episode. Everyone wants to feel loved and appreciated on the special holiday, but sometimes, we, like Chandler and Monica, just have to admit that life gets in the way of things. Stream on Max

Related: Friends: The 10 Most Romantic Gestures We Saw on the Show

16 Grey’s Anatomy — “Valentine’s Day Massacre” (Season 6, Episode 14)

In this Grey’s Anatomy episode, Meredith and Cristina’s idea of a perfect Valentine’s Day is spending it at the hospital with back-to-back surgeries to handle, not on a double date with Derek and Owen. Lucky for them, their pagers save the day, and the group heads to the hospital to save lives. Lexi finds herself trying to do something different for Valentine’s Day to get over Mark, but her new hair color gets everyone’s attention as well as their unsolicited advice. Ben slowly but surely works his magic on Miranda, as he seems to be the only one who enjoys planning lovely dates far in advance.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

For those of you who are not all about the big teddy bears and grand romantic gestures on Valentine’s Day, this episode is perfect. The majority of the characters either loath the holiday or just are not feeling the magic in the air. However, fans do love getting to see Ben make Miranda slightly uncomfortable and embarrassed as he makes sure she knows he wants to give her the world as well as his heart. Stream on Netflix

15 Arrested Development — “Marta Complex” (Season 1, Episode 12)

In Arrested Development, Lucille unknowingly throws an anniversary party for her daughter Lindsay and her husband Tobias — she was under the impression she was throwing a Valentine’s Day party — but while everyone should be filled with love and joy, there is a lot of hesitation at the party. Lindsay is starting to realize she no longer loves Tobias, and Michael, Lindsay’s brother, is wrestling with the fact that he loves his brother’s girlfriend, Marta.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Hilarious antics are always going down within the Bluth family, but this time, a language barrier is what causes all the chaos. Gob thinks Marta is cheating on him because she has been a bit distracted by someone named “hermano.” Clearly, neither he nor Michael know the word means “brother.” There are plenty of secrets to unravel in this episode, and it will give any first-time watcher a bit of insight that might make them appreciate their family a little bit more. Stream on Netflix

14 Frasier — “Three Valentines” (Season 6, Episode 14)

While trying to make sure everything is perfect for his Valentine’s Day date at Frasier’s apartment, Niles manages to ruin the entire evening before it even begins. In this Frasier episode, he cuts himself with scissors, sets fire to the couch, and throws his dinner on the fire to put out the flames. Across town, Frasier receives mixed signals from Cassandra, the new marketing manager, and does not know if they are on a date or just doing business. This confusion lasts all night, even when the two end up in bed together.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

“Three Valentines” is one of the best episodes in this sitcom from the ’90s, as the actors really commit to some of the best physical comedy written for the show. Audiences cringe when Niles brings out the ironing board, just knowing something is going to catch fire. Then, Frasier’s predicament feels a bit too realistic with the frustration that comes with the what-are-we-doing-here scenario too many of us have experienced with others. Stream on Hulu

13 How I Met Your Mother — “Desperation Day” (Season 6, Episode 16)

While Barney tries to prove to Robin that he can pick up any woman he wants the day before Valentine’s Day, which he has so respectfully deemed “Desperation Day,” Ted and Zoey have problems figuring out exactly how committed they want to be in their relationship. Elsewhere in this How I Met Your Mother episode, Lily misses Marshall because he’s still in Minnesota, and fearing they will miss out on their Valentine’s Day tradition, she goes to Minnesota in hopes she will be able to bring him home.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Every holiday is crazy with this gang because someone — usually Ted — is either trying too hard to make everything perfect, or they have a hatred for the holiday and just want to boycott it altogether. Here, we see a slight turn of events where Barney actually learns to embrace the lovey-dovey holiday after striking out on his made-up one. This is when audiences start to see that he really is capable of being a good guy for the right reasons. Stream on Hulu

Related: How Every Main Character in How I Met Your Mother First Met Each Other

12 The Office — “PDA” (Season 7, Episode 16)

While Michael and Holly are blinded by their second chance at love in The Office, everyone else at work is absolutely disgusted by their affection. The two constantly hug, kiss, and touch in front of their co-workers, and a meeting about PDA in the workplace is held in their honor. Surprisingly, the two are shocked to be called out in front of everyone, and Michael decides it is time to take their relationship to the next level. Because all eyes are on Michael and Holly during this Valentine’s Day special, Jim and Pam are able to get away with being drunk while at the office.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Michael and Holly’s relationship has frustrated many, but in “PDA,” after the very affectionate pair are called out and almost call it quits, we see a more mature side of Michael emerge. Rather than breaking up, they decide to take things a step further and move in together. Fans are happy to see things work out for the pair, but the best part about this episode is seeing Pam do her absolute best to act sober at work. Stream on Peacock Premium

11 The Big Bang Theory — “The Tangible Affection Proof” (Season 6, Episode 16)

All Leonard wants to do on Valentine’s Day in this episode of The Big Bang Theory is show Penny how much she means to him by giving her the best day ever. However, Penny sabotages the whole evening by complaining and fixating on her ex-boyfriend, who just so happens to be at the same restaurant having a wonderful time proposing to his girlfriend. Meanwhile, Bernadette and Howard realize they are much happier with one another; Amy and Sheldon celebrate with a quiet evening at home with pizza and Star Trek; and Raj manages to get a date at his singles party.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

The fact that Raj managed to land a date on Valentine’s Day should be enough for everyone to immediately click straight to this episode, but really, it is heartfelt seeing everyone happy with the person they are with before the credits begin rolling. Penny and Leonard make up; Bernadette and Howard resolve their own problems, and Sheldon learns just how much Amy really considers his needs, even on what he thinks is the most obnoxious holiday of the year. Stream on Max

10 Modern Family — “My Funky Valentine” (Season 1, Episode 15)

Phil and Claire decide to spice things up in this Modern Family episode, so instead of celebrating Valentine’s Day with a regular dinner, the two role play as strangers who meet at a hotel bar. All is well until they decide to head back to the room, and Claire almost gives the crowded hotel a free show. Luckily, Gloria comes to her rescue after she and Jay leave their own Valentine’s Day plans behind.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

As always, everything is a bit chaotic for this blended family, but the holiday was certainly memorable for everyone. Seeing Claire and Phil put aside their “mom and dad” titles for a night is something many parents want to do just for the sake of rekindling their own relationship, and perhaps after watching this episode, some fans may be inspired to have their own unique and romantic evening. Stream on Peacock

9 Gossip Girl — “Crazy Cupid Love” (Season 5, Episode 15)

In this Gossip Girl episode, after Blair and Serena manage to put their past behind them, Blair gets the fabulous idea to get Serena and Dan back together, as they both express they haven’t had a great Valentine’s Day since high school, but everything goes wrong. Dan doesn’t want Serena back, and he expresses that by kissing the now-married Blair. Georgina, who Dan discovered is working for Gossip Girl, snaps a picture of the interaction, and Serena’s heart breaks as she also watches the two passionately kiss.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Even though all the characters have been out of high school for a bit and are moving towards their own versions of success, this episode brings everyone right back to their drama-filled days. You’ll find yourself wanting to scream at the top of your lungs at some characters and smack some sense into others. It really is crazy, there is a cupid who does not know what she is doing, and there is certainly some forbidden love in the air. Stream on Max

Related: The 20 Best Episodes of Gossip Girl, Ranked

8 Parks and Recreation — “Galentine’s Day” (Season 2, Episode 16)

Every year, on February 13th, Leslie from Parks and Recreation hosts Galentine’s Day with all the ladies in the office, so they can get away from their husbands and boyfriends and just have a fun and festive time. At the event, Leslie’s mom talks about a past love, and later, Leslie’s boyfriend gets the bright idea to reunite the two seniors for a perfect Valentine’s Day surprise. While Leslie and Justin try (and fail) to play cupid, romance is in the air for a few other budding couples.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Galentine’s Day has become somewhat of a tradition for many fans and others, as people realize celebrating a cutesy holiday does not have to be exclusively for couples. Seeing Leslie spend some time with her gal pals is reassuring and empowering to many women in the corporate world because it is a reminder that connection and friendship can (and should) come before competition. Stream on Peacock Premium

7 Boy Meets World — “First Girlfriends’ Club” (Season 5, Episode 15)

While Topanga and Cory are at odds with one another for the first time on Valentine’s Day in this Boy Meets World episode, Shawn desperately wants to be a good guy and keep his commitment to Angela. Unfortunately, three of Shawn’s ex-girlfriends decide he needs to be taught a lesson after he ruined their relationships over the past year. Shawn gets handcuffed and put on trial by his former girlfriends, claiming they are just looking out for Angela. Eventually, Shawn is rescued by Jack and Eric, and Shawn realizes he has to change his ways with women.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Rather than focusing on Topanga and Cory’s love life for the millionth time, “First Girlfriends’ Club” gives Shawn the spotlight. More importantly, it shows how a young man is able to reflect on his wrongdoings with previous women to make things right for a deserving girl. It is a really empowering episode, and hearing Jack and Eric admit all guys are pigs is pretty great. Stream on Disney+

6 Friends — “The One with the Candy Hearts” (Season 1, Episode 14)

Rachel, Monica, and Phoebe are tired of dating horrible guys by this point in Friends, and Phoebe gets the great idea to burn everything they’ve kept from old boyfriends on Valentine’s Day. However, even a small and semi-contained fire in an apartment is never a good idea, and the girls end up meeting some rather nice firemen who are used to the “boyfriend bonfire” ritual. Meanwhile, Chandler and Joey go on a double date; Chandler ends up reuniting with Janice for the night, and Ross ruins his own date by inviting his ex-wife to join them for dinner.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Everyone has some things (and people) in their past they would like to forget about, so the girls burning everything from their previous relationships makes sense in a way. However, anyone not blinded by hatred for men could have seen that an indoor fire should have at least been moved to the balcony, but that would have downplayed the natural chaos fans expect from the single girls. Stream on Max

5 New Girl — “Valentine’s Day” (Season 1, Episode 13)

Jess is a relationship girl, but when she finds herself single for the first time on Valentine’s Day in this New Girl episode, she decides to take Schmidt’s advice and scope out a potential one-night stand. Unfortunately and unsurprisingly, everything goes wrong from the guy’s ex-girlfriend still living with him to Schmidt and Cece spoiling the spontaneous night. In a different part of town, Nick and Julie’s night is ruined as she has to work, and Winston tries to get back together with an old flame only to find that she is hosting a girls’ night in.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Jess trying to have her very first one-night stand is all you need to know about this episode. It is cringy and hilarious, and you will find yourself with a horrible case of secondhand embarrassment. Everyone else’s night seems to conclude on a rather good note, and Cece and Schmidt have a new little tradition (and secret) by the end of the iconic episode: their bone-iversary. Stream on Hulu

Related: New Girl: The 20 Best Episodes of All Time, Ranked

4 Gilmore Girls — “A Vineyard Valentine” (Season 6, Episode 15)

While Rory and Logan are definitely getting serious in their relationship, as the two plan a weekend getaway to Martha’s Vineyard for Valentine’s Day, things between Luke and Lorelai are a bit rocky. Hoping some time away from their daily routine will help mend things, Rory invites her mom and Luke to join them at the beach house in this episode of Gilmore Girls. After complaining about every little inconvenience, Luke eventually comes around to liking both Logan and the time away from work, but not after he’s clearly ruined most of the trip for Lorelai.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

After six and a half seasons of seeing the mother-daughter duo bounce around town and school, it is nice to see them break their routine up a bit. This is also the pivotal episode that fans believe foreshadows the fate of both relationships. Luke’s hostility toward the holiday wedges a gap between him and Lorelai (and they eventually break up), and Logan could not be more smitten with Rory (and he eventually proposes). Stream on Netflix

3 Glee — “Silly Love Songs” (Season 2, Episode 12)

Emotions are belted out as six perfect, and apparently “silly,” love songs are sung that capture how teens truly feel about the people they love. In this Glee episode, viewers get to see Kurt in a very vulnerable position as he finally expresses his feelings for Blaine, but the latter does not reciprocate the romance. Meanwhile, Finn sets up a kissing booth that successfully reunites him with his former girlfriend, Quinn, but not everyone is happy about their old spark returning.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Valentine’s Day is about love and commitment, but it is also about taking a chance. “Silly Love Songs” shows exactly how nerve-racking it can be to bare your heart and soul to someone, but in the end, at least the characters were willing to try. From singing about love to refusing to let go of some feelings, there is a lot to be learned in this holiday special. Stream on Disney+ and Hulu

2 Everybody Hates Chris — “Everybody Hates Valentine’s Day” (Season 1, Episode 14)

Chris desperately wants to get a card, a present, or even a little recognition from a girl on Valentine’s Day, but unfortunately, the only one with their eyes on him is his racist bully, Caruso. Meanwhile, Tonya has her very first boyfriend, and she wants to celebrate the love-filled holiday by giving him a card. Julius, being the over-protective TV dad that he is, will hear nothing of it, and he even tries to put a stop to the puppy love.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

Young love is adorable for many and gross for others. Watching Chris practically beg for someone’s affection in this Everybody Hates Chris episode is sad and hilarious all at the same time, and Tonya’s boyfriend is probably the most innocent kid on the show. In the end, fans will be happy that they are neither Rochelle nor Julius, as those two clearly have their hands full fending off people who simply love their two youngest children. ​​​​​Stream on Hulu

After getting into a fight with his study group in this episode ob Community, Jeff goes back to his apartment and is forced to host an impromptu party. The rest of the crew attend the school’s Valentine’s Day dance, but nothing seems to go right. Britta is mistaken for a lesbian, Abed and Troy have the most civil competition with one another while courting the school’s librarian, and Pierce battles with himself and his growing addiction to painkillers. ​​​​​​​

Why It’s a Must-Watch

After watching the study group get into altercations nearly every time they come together, fans finally get to see Jeff realize he cares for his friends after missing out on the school dance. It’s a beautiful epiphany that is long-overdue, but at least he is able to put some of his anger behind him and move forward with an open mind and heart. ​​​​​​​Stream on Netflix