Long-distance anniversaries can sting—especially when the day begs to be spent together. But with a bit of planning and creativity, you can still make it feel intimate, joyful, and truly special—even from miles apart.
TL;DR
- Sync up shared experiences with watch-together apps and games
- Add tactile gifts like care packages or touch bracelets
- Mix active and cozy plans such as cooking or stargazing
- Keep it simple and true to your relationship style
- Move the celebration if it feels right for you both
How do you celebrate your long-distance anniversary? Despite the potential for melancholy, it should be a happy day. These virtual anniversary ideas will put a positive spin on the situation and make it super fun.
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Cook Together
This is a fun and sweet date whether you love cooking or are a total beginner. Choose a meal that’s special to you as a couple—maybe your first date dish or a favorite comfort food. Cook the same meal together over video call, from grocery shopping to plating. Once the meal is done, dress up, light candles, pour some wine, and enjoy your dinner date virtually.
A Movie Date
A classic long-distance date idea that never gets old. Pick a movie you both love or one you’ve been wanting to see. Use tools like Teleparty or Apple’s SharePlay to watch in sync while chatting over video call. Order takeout or grab your favorite movie snacks and make it a cozy night in together.
Make A Video For Your partner
Create a short video or montage using clips, photos, and messages that highlight your favorite memories together. Add music or captions to make it personal. It doesn’t need to be fancy—just heartfelt. Send it to them on your anniversary or watch it together during a call for an emotional and meaningful gift.
Play Games
Play online games together for a night of laughs and fun. Options like Jackbox Party Packs or Tabletop Simulator let you compete or cooperate from afar. Whether you love strategy, trivia, or silly games, it’s a great way to connect and enjoy each other’s company.
Write and Illustrate a Story
Write a story about your perfect day together—it could be realistic or completely imaginative. Illustrate it or add digital sketches to make it special. You can either do this as a surprise gift or collaborate in real time using a shared document to co-write and draw together.
Take a Class
Take an online class together! Try cooking, yoga, art, dance, or mixology. You can find tons of virtual workshops that let you learn and laugh together while building new skills. For an extra-special touch, book a private online lesson and make it your date night activity.
Write a Love Letter
Nothing beats a heartfelt love letter. Share how much your partner means to you, reflect on the past year, and talk about your hopes for the future. Handwritten letters add a personal touch that digital messages just can’t match.
Send a Care Package
Send your partner a curated box filled with their favorite snacks, a hoodie that smells like you, a heartfelt note, and small keepsakes. You can even include a touch bracelet so they can feel a “tap” from you anytime. This thoughtful surprise will make their day.
Stargazing
Find a quiet spot outside and look at the stars while on a video call. Use an astronomy app to identify constellations and see if you can both find the same ones. It’s simple, beautiful, and romantic—perfect for ending your anniversary night.
What I Love About You Journal
Buy a fill-in-the-blank journal that prompts you to write about why you love your partner. Add your own inside jokes, memories, and heartfelt notes. Send it as a keepsake they can reread anytime they miss you.
Make a Joint Playlist
Music brings back memories instantly. Spend time building a playlist together that captures your relationship. Use Spotify’s Blend feature to combine your tastes or create a custom playlist of songs that remind you of each other.
Scavenger Hunt
Before you part ways, hide small gifts or notes in your partner’s home with clues to find them later. On your anniversary, send riddles or hints and enjoy watching them search. It’s interactive, thoughtful, and incredibly fun.
Quiz Book for Couples
Try a couple’s quiz book or find fun online questionnaires to learn more about each other. Answer separately and compare your results during your call—it’s both insightful and entertaining.
Get Help
If your partner’s friends or family live nearby, ask them to deliver flowers, balloons, or a sweet surprise on your behalf. It’s a great way to make them feel loved and thought of even when you’re far away.
Push it Back
Remember, your anniversary is just a date. What matters most is your relationship. If celebrating later when you’re together feels more special, that’s perfectly fine. Do what feels right for both of you.
FAQ
What’s the easiest way to watch a movie together long-distance?
Teleparty and SharePlay are the simplest options. They let you stream in sync while chatting, making it feel like you’re on the couch together.
Are there new long-distance gadgets worth trying?
Yes! Touch bracelets like Bond Touch let you send small “taps” that mimic touch. They’re fun for quick, intimate check-ins during the day.
What if one of us isn’t into gaming?
Try easy games like Jackbox Party Packs or mobile trivia games—no gaming skills required. It’s all about fun and laughter, not competition.
Can we stargaze together from different cities?
Definitely! Use apps like Star Walk 2 or Sky Guide to explore constellations together while you chat under the same stars.
How can we make a playlist that fits both our tastes?
Start a shared playlist or use Spotify’s Blend feature to merge your favorite songs automatically into one romantic mix.
Is VR a good idea for anniversaries?
If you both own headsets, VR watch parties or concerts can feel surprisingly close. It’s a modern twist for couples who love tech.
