10 Lies Men Tell to Get Out Of Spending Valentine’s Day With You
This Saturday is Valentine’s Day, and many couples are gearing up for a romantic weekend. My wife and I have been together for a decade, so we don’t always plan anything super special. We’ve done big, grand Valentine’s Day presents in the past. One year, I even planned out an entire day for her: a massage, champagne at the massage place, flowers, her favorite chocolates, and dinner at her favorite spot. The works. However, if you are relatively new to your relationship (or even just dating), there are some Valentine’s Day excuses that should raise red flags. While some guys might have honestly forgotten about the holiday or have legitimate excuses, some are just avoiding spending the day with you. Here are 10 lies some men tell to get out of Valentine’s Day altogether.
1. “I’m Suddenly Working Late Tonight.”
This is one of the most classic Valentine’s Day excuses because it sounds responsible and unavoidable. Men use it when they want to appear dedicated to their job while quietly sidestepping the holiday. The problem is that the timing is almost always suspicious, especially if late nights aren’t part of his normal routine. Realistically, most workplaces don’t schedule surprise overtime on February 14 unless there’s a genuine emergency. When this line pops up, it’s usually a sign he’s avoiding the expectations of the day.
2. “I Didn’t Realize Valentine’s Day Was Today.”
This excuse works only if he’s genuinely forgetful, but most of the time, it’s a strategic play. Men use it to downplay the importance of the holiday and soften the disappointment of not planning anything. It’s one of the most common excuses because it shifts the blame to “accidental oversight.” The truth is that Valentine’s Day is hard to miss with all the ads, decorations, and reminders everywhere. If he claims total surprise, he’s likely dodging the emotional weight of the day.
3. “I Think I’m Coming Down With Something.”
Illness is a convenient out because it’s hard to argue with. Men often use this excuse when they want sympathy instead of confrontation. The timing, however, tends to be suspiciously perfect, especially if he was fine the day before. Many women notice that the “symptoms” disappear quickly once the holiday passes. Ultimately, it’s usually more about avoiding pressure than fighting off a real cold.
4. “My Friend Really Needs Me Tonight.”
This excuse sounds noble, which is why it’s so effective. Men use it to appear caring and loyal while quietly stepping away from Valentine’s Day plans. The issue is that the “friend emergency” often lacks details or urgency. Real emergencies happen, but they’re not typically scheduled on the most romantic night of the year. If this line shows up repeatedly, it’s a sign he’s prioritizing avoidance over connection.
5. “I Don’t Believe in Valentine’s Day. It’s Too Commercial.”
Some men genuinely dislike the holiday, but others use this line to avoid effort or emotional vulnerability. It’s one of the most popular excuses because it sounds principled and thoughtful. The problem is that the same men who reject the holiday often celebrate other “commercial” events without hesitation. What they’re really rejecting is the expectation to show affection in a meaningful way. If he only objects when romance is involved, the issue isn’t the holiday… it’s the commitment.
6. “I Already Made Plans Before We Started Talking.”
This excuse is common in early dating when a man wants to keep things casual. It allows him to avoid Valentine’s Day without technically doing anything wrong. The problem is that the plans are often vague, unchangeable, and conveniently impossible to reschedule. It’s one of those “cop outs” that signals he’s not ready to invest emotionally. At the end of the day, if he wanted to, he would!
7. “My Family Needs Me Tonight.”
Family obligations are real, but they’re also a convenient shield. Men use this excuse when they want to avoid the romantic pressure of the holiday without seeming selfish. The lack of specifics often gives it away, especially if the “family need” is something that could easily wait. It might sound caring, but it often masks discomfort with intimacy. Recognize the pattern and realize that it’s just an excuse.
8. “I Forgot to Make Reservations, and Everything’s Booked.”
This excuse shifts the blame to circumstances instead of effort. Men use it when they didn’t plan ahead, but don’t want to admit it. The truth is that Valentine’s Day doesn’t require a fancy restaurant. There are countless ways to celebrate. Let’s be honest… he wasn’t motivated to plan anything at all. A man who wants to celebrate will find a way, even if it’s simple.
9. “I Don’t Want to Ruin the Day Because I’m Stressed.”
This excuse sounds considerate, but it’s often a way to avoid emotional closeness. Men use it to frame their withdrawal as protection rather than avoidance. Stress is real, but it doesn’t usually prevent someone from spending time with a person they care about. It’s one of the Valentine’s Day excuses that hides discomfort behind good intentions.
10. “Let’s Celebrate Another Day Instead.”
This is the softest version of avoidance, but it’s still avoidance. Men use it when they want to dodge the pressure of Valentine’s Day without completely shutting the door. The problem is that the “other day” rarely happens unless you push for it. This line keeps expectations low and effort minimal. If he’s genuinely interested, he’ll follow through.
What These Excuses Reveal About the Relationship
When a man leans on Valentine’s Day excuses, it’s rarely about the holiday itself. It’s usually about pressure, expectations, or emotional readiness. Understanding the meaning behind these patterns can help you decide what you want moving forward. You deserve clarity, consistency, and someone who shows up when it matters. Valentine’s Day doesn’t define a relationship, but how someone handles it can reveal more than they realize.
Have you ever heard one of these Valentine’s Day excuses? Share your story in the comments.
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