The definition of Valentine’s Day is getting a major remix in 2026. New search data from Google shows that Nigerians are ditching the standard dinner-and-roses playbook for something much more personal—and occasionally unexpected. The trends this year are all about hyper-specific experiences, “glow-up” dates, and capturing the perfect aesthetic for the ‘gram.

It is no longer just about romance. It is about unique experiences. Here is what is trending on Google Search in Nigeria this February.

The Rise of the “Glow-Up” Date

Nigerians are prioritizing self-care as a love language this year. In a surprising twist, search interest is spiking for “valentine couple package for dental”, proving that a bright smile is the new box of chocolates.

Couples are also looking for relaxation over rush, with searches for “spa couples valentine package ideas” and “combo deal for valentines in a spa or salon” climbing fast. The focus has shifted from a stressful night out to a pampering session for two.

The “Experience” Flex

Dinner is nice, but a getaway is better. Nigerians are dreaming big this year, with top searches including “romantic weekend getaway lagos” and the adventurous “valentine cruise trip near nigeria”.

For the younger demographic, it is all about the visuals. A breakout search trend this year is “valentine photoshoot ideas for boys,” showing that men are just as invested in capturing the memory (and the outfit) as their partners.

Galentine’s and The Squad

The move from “couples only” to “everyone invited” continues to grow. The concept of Galentine’s Day is officially mainstream, with friend groups searching for “Galantine’s Day party” ideas to celebrate their circle. It’s less about a quiet night for two and more about a loud, fun celebration for the crew.

It’s All About the Aesthetic

When it comes to gifting, the generic is out and the “money bouquet” is in. Searches for this elaborate gift style are climbing as people look for a way to combine generosity with serious visual flair. Customization is key, with searches for specific “cake designs” trending alongside the bouquets.

3 ways to Level Up Your V-Day

Planning these elaborate dates and getaways can be a lot of work. This is where tech comes in handy to save the day. Lifestyle editors and influencers are using AI tools like Gemini and Nano Banana to take the stress out of the prep.

• Plan the Ultimate Escape: If you are eyeing that “romantic weekend getaway” or “cruise trip,” you can ask Gemini to compare itineraries and find the hidden gems that fit your budget perfectly.
• Visualise the Vibe: Planning a “money bouquet” or a specific “photoshoot” concept? Use Nano Banana to generate mood boards and reference images. Showing a clear picture to your photographer or vendor is the best way to ensure the final result matches your vision.
• Find the Best Deals: For those looking for “combo deals” at spas or salons, AI assistants can help scour the web to find the best packages available in your area.

Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications Manager for West Africa at Google, commented:

“The 2026 trends show that Nigerians are being more intentional than ever about how they celebrate love—whether that’s celebrating their circle of friends for Galentine’s or putting extra effort into creative, personalized gifts like money bouquets. It’s exciting to see how people are using Search not just to find products, but to find inspiration and the ‘how-to’ for making their celebrations unique.”

Insights and lists below

Insights Search interest for Galentine’s Day has seen a steady increase year by year and reached its peak in 2025. In the first week of February searches went up +140%.  “Valentine’s messages for boyfriend long distance” spiked +380%, “what can a girl buy for her boyfriend on valentine’s day” went up +200% and “valentine’s message for new relationship” increased +180%  the first week of February. Searches for Valentine bags quadrupled (+300%) and Valentine hairstyles spiked +270% in the first week of February.
Top Valentine’s day activity searches Spa couples valentine package ideas Activities for valentine’s class party in nigerian schools Games for youth valentine program in church Valentine couple package for dental Romantic weekend getaway lagos Combo deal for valentines in a spa or salon Cheap good restaurants for valentine’s day Activities in church for youth during valentine’s sunday service Valentine cruise trip near nigeria Valentine photoshoot ideas for boys	Top creative gifting searches Nail polish valentine gift Valentine gift bag Pink flowers for her Money bouquet for valentine Valentine games for adults Valentines letters for friends How to make a gift box for valentine What flowers are good for valentine’s day bouquet Letter for valentine
Top “food trends” searches Valentine cake ideas Bento cake designs with cupcakes for valentine Valentine foil cakes Valentine themed cupcakes Red wine on valentine’s day Brownie for valentine Best valentines day treats not candy for kids Valentine snack box How to make cake decorations for valentine’s day Valentine’s food tray	Top Galentine’s searches (past month) Valentine’s day quotes for best friend girl What is galentine How to make valentine’s day sweetheart bracelet for your best friend Funny valentine messages for friends What can i make my friends for valentine’s day if they are boys Galentine’s day gift ideas Is galentine’s day for singles Valentine’s day messages to send to my best friend Valentine letter for your friend Activities to do on valentine’s day with friends