As a guy, I have always felt a little bit of pressure when Valentine’s Day is around the corner. I know it is kind of silly for me to put that pressure on myself, but I honestly like to get my wife and daughter some thoughtful gifts or take them on a fun outing or treat my wife to a romantic dinner for two. I think it is wonderful that we have 364 days in the year to tell people how much we care about them, and I try to do that on the daily with the wonderful ladies in my life. But this one day, there is always a little something extra special about it and so I like to take the time to really show my wonderful wife and my amazing daughter just how much I love both of them.
Whether you are spending the holiday with your whole family or just having a special day with your significant other, here is a list of some great things to do around Denver and in the mountains this year:
With the whole family –
Orchid show at the Botanic Gardens – through Feb. 20th – They are hard to grow in this climate but orchids are some of the most beautiful tropical flowers out there and the Botanic Gardens has been working hard to grow hundreds of them to make for quite the collection.
David Wilcox at Swallow Hill Music – 71 E. Yale Ave – Feb 10th & Feb 12th – With such an intimate setting, this is a perfect place to bring the family to listen to folk singer/songwriter David Wilcox strum along on his solo guitar while singing his heart out.
Learn about chocolate – Denver Botanic Gardens – While it is great to learn about all the amazing plants at the Gardens, this time of year calls for a special educating workshop on the cacao tree and how their beans are transformed into delicious chocolates. Once you’ve learned a thing or two, get ready to create your own box to take home.
Valentine’s Day 5k – Washington Park – Feb 12th – Get out your best Valentine’s Day costume and get ready for a fun run around the park with this yearly 5k tradition. Don’t forget to get a picture with cupid before you leave the event!
Just for the two of you –
Heart for a romantic overnight stay in the mountains – I could list off the many places that would be great for a romantic weekend getaway but there are so many great places close to Denver it is hard to decide. A few of my favorites would be Estes Park, Breckenridge and if you just want a little city getaway, head up to Boulder for the night.
Vegantines on Valentine’s Day at White Lies – Feb 14th – If you are a vegan lover, this is the night for you. This is White Lies’ first dinner in honor of the holiday, which will include a full course meal and drink to go along with it.
Paint and sip at various locations - Whimsy Paint and Sip Art Studio (8246 Northfield Blvd. #1425), Sipping n Painting Highland (2563 15th St., #102) and Canvas and Cocktails (248 Clayton St.) – This is one of those fun things to do with your significant other because it really shows your artistic (or lack of) abilities while having a few drinks.
Get married (yes you read that right) Denver clerk and recorder’s Valentine’s Day celebration – 201 W. Colfax Ave – Feb 14th – Denver Clerk and Recorder Debra Johnson will be hosting the 10th annual event which will have judges and clergy on hand to perform free marriage ceremonies for couples. If you think you are ready to tie the knot this holiday, here’s an event you don’t want to miss.
Hope you have a wonderful Valentine’s Day, whether you spend it with your whole family or just a romantic time with your significant other. Make sure to spread the love!