Commercialized or not, we think Valentine’s Day should just officially become a universal day of love; we could all use a little more love in this world, non? Should you choose to embrace the day and celebrate the cuddly feelies, you can enjoy it in any state – coupled, solo, bff, squad. Here’s some of our picks on what to do this Valentine’s Day in Vancouver.
You’re the sweetest: Beta5 Chocolates Pop-Up has all the sweet treats to make your day extra special. Open daily 12 – 7pm until February 14 (3345 Cambie Street.) Other limited time heart-day items can be found at sweet shops including French Made Baking, Ladurée, and Thomas Haas. Also winding down on the 14th is CityFood’s annual Hot Chocolate Festival. Browse the 60+ crazy flavours and choose a cup of indulgence from one of the 29 participants across the city.
Get your hearts racing under the big top with amazing acrobatics and equestrian arts. Cavalia’s Odysseo brings 65 horses and 48 artists in an exciting live show.
Donut miss this Cartem’s tasting: A four-course savoury and sweet donut tasting with wine and port pairings. $45, at the downtown location. Or, grab some kiddies in your life and head to their Kits location for a free donut decorating session!
Looking for a singles’ event? Here’s a juicy one: Evo is hosting a speed-dating event at Juice Truck on February 14. Open to Evo members only, so you can meet other cool car-sharing cats – at least you’re guaranteed one thing in common. (Not a member yet? Register now and get 30 minutes of free drive time!)
A Vietnamese food buffet is love. Mr. Red Cafe hosts a two-day V-day buffet on February 13 and 14. The 13th is Family Day in BC, so bring the clan – $28 for adults, $17 for kids 7-14 years, free for kids under 7. Both locations.
Summon your inner Blades of Glory self and strap on a pair of skates for a free twirl around Robson Square Ice Rink (skate rentals $4, cash only.)
Or for a bigger dose of fresh air, bundle up and join a snowshoe tour! Cypress, Seymour, and Grouse all offer various tours – even better, some options pair it with fondue. (if you’re bringing the fam, take advantage of the full day of Family Day activities at Grouse.)
Be a good Instagram Husband. Take her on a Vancouver Mural Fest walking tour through Mount Pleasant and snap that perfect new profile photo.
A glass of wine is good for the heart, as they say. The Vancouver International Wine Festival runs February 11 – 19, featuring a range of intimate events from seminars to dinners in addition to the main Tasting Room event.
Spa-la-la: the weather’s been extra rough this season – why not book in for a spa day to take care of that winter skin or tight muscles from all the snow shoveling (or snowboarding)? Bonus if you score a deal – Groupon’s got lots of great offers (and often with additional savings on top, like the extra 20% off promo that ends today!)
The no-fail plan? Book a mini getaway – pick one from our favourite spots that are just a short drive away. A marathon session of Netflix gets elevated when you’re snuggled up in a cozy cabin away from home. Hang out in your PJs together, no overcrowded dinner reservations required.
Happy Heart Day, loves!