Roses are red, violets are blue, why not add a twist to this Valentine’s Day for your sweetheart and you?
If you need a break from traditional flowers and chocolates, consider these unique, budget-friendly tips while planning a memorable Valentine’s Day for that special someone in your life.
The Central Florida ArtsFest offers couples and families a chance to leave the typical dinner behind in favor of live performances.
Revise the typical “dinner and a movie” date by bringing the indoors, out. Pack a picnic basket for a peaceful night under the stars. Valentine’s at Leu Gardens offers couples an outdoor evening retreat. “Movies in the gardens remind some people of the old Drive-In Movie. For others, it is a more intimate experience,” says Tracy Micciche, events and marketing coordinator at Leu Gardens. “Where else in Central Florida can you take a stroll around a botanical garden before a movie? And the best part is you can have a romantic dinner in the gardens.” This year’s feature presentation, An Officer and a Gentleman, will take place on Monday, February 14 at 7:30 p.m.
For those with a creative side, team up with your sweetie and decorate pottery at Painted by Hue. After selecting pottery from an assortment of styles, show off your artistic skills while painting your new masterpiece. “[We] provide a relaxed, casual and creative atmosphere for date night, allowing couples to create gifts of art from the heart,” says Gisela Rogero, owner of Patined by Hue in Waterford Lakes. On Saturday, February 12, join in on a special reservation only Sweethearts Date Night.
“Couples will receive a Painted by Hue personalized keepsake and enjoy their choice of chocolates & berries or cheese & crackers and are welcome to bring in their own favorite beverage,” says Rogero.
Looking for a night out that will be sure to strike up good conversation? The “Valentine’s Couples Special” at Firkin and Kegler, may be right up your alley. “Each couple will have the opportunity to enjoy two bowling games each, two pairs of rental shoes and one pitcher of soda or beer for $25 plus tax,” says Sarah Aviles, from the events department of Firkin and Kegler. Couples from young lovebirds to the merely young at heart can take advantage of this promotion on Valentine’s Day from 5:00 p.m. to close.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take a journey down the Winter Park Chain of Lakes during “Love on the Water Week.” Reminisce over fond memories during a two and a half hour trip on the water, including a serene lakeside picnic including bubbly and chocolates. “Our Valentine’s Day special is one of the best kept secrets in Central Florida because planning an outdoor adventure can really enhance your relationship by working together and exploring new sights and creating special moments,” says Lauren Postal, owner of Peace of Love Kayaking. Each trip guarantees plenty of towering cypress trees, lush ferns, a variety of flourishing flowers and breathtaking views of exquisite estates. “This is truly an amazing chance to see central Florida at its finest,” adds Postal.
Or you could appreciate the arts with your darling during the annual Central Florida ArtsFest. “This year, ArtsFest offers you the chance to leave your typical dinner and a movie date behind and celebrate Valentine’s Day enjoying unique love-themed performances for free,” says Emma Kruch, communications manager, United Arts of Central Florida.
Watch three actors play fifteen characters, in five restaurants, on one fateful night in the off-Broadway hit, First Course Love. “The arts in Central Florida are abundant with hundreds of quality organizations big and small – there’s something for every taste and pocketbook,” says Kruch. This year, consider tossing aside old, recorded soundtracks, for an evening of live music conducted by the Orlando Concert Band. “More than flowers, better than chocolates – That’s Amore,” she says.
Why settle for a traditional dinner and a movie date night? Add a twist to your Valentine’s Day this year with a little sugar and spice and everything nice!
Article by Carol Galbicsek
