COLUMBUS, Ohio — If you're looking for something to do with your significant other, close friends or family this Valentine's Day, there are plenty of events happening in central Ohio.
While some events may be specifically designed for couples, others may be fitting for families and friends wanting to spend the day together. No matter what you do, Valentine's Day is the perfect day to show those you love that you care.
Valentine's Day events
*Please note that not all themed events are happening on Feb. 14.
My Funny Valentine with the Tony Hagood Quintet | Feb. 11 from 2-4 p.m. | If you're a fan of live music and love songs, the Tony Hagood Quintet is performing a concert that will play hits like "My Funny Valentine," "Fly Me to the Moon" and "Cheek to Cheek." Tickets are $25 for non-members in advance, and $30 for everyone at the door.
Renaissance Faire | Feb. 8 from 7-10 p.m. | If you're looking for a fun Renaissance Faire themed-event, COSI is hosting the perfect event for you. The event is only open to those 21 and older and features themed drinks, people in costumes and access to some of COSI's exhibitions. Tickets are $20 per person if purchased in advance and $30 at the door.
Hearts Go Wild | Feb. 10 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. | 21+ only | To celebrate Valentine’s Day and all things love, treat your Valentine to a night out at the zoo! Hearts Go Wild is an exclusive, 21+ event held at the Zoo's Africa Event Center. The event includes a cocktail hour, a raffle, a dinner and a zoo-themed trivia game. Find more information here.
There are three separate events happening at the conservatory perfect for a date night.
Chihuly Nights | Feb. 14 from 7-10 p.m. | You can view the conservatory's 18 different Chihuly installations that are professionally lit. Visitors can also explore the gardens and plant collections and experience current exhibitions.
Cooking class | Feb 12. from 6-8:30 p.m. | You and your partner can attend a cooking class taught by Toby Normoyle where you will learn to make Creme Brulee. The event costs $69 for nonmembers.
Painting class | Feb 13. from 6-8 p.m. | The hands-on art class taught by Miriam Baranov teaches couples how to use watercolor to paint vibrant botanicals. Painters are able to sip wine as they work and will be able to take a walk through the biomes at night. The event costs $50 for nonmembers.
Valentine's Day little or no cost ideas
Valentine's Day carriage ride at Easton Town Center | Feb. 9, 10 & 14 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Feb. 11 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. | Experience the lights of Easton and the beauty of winter from a horse-drawn carriage throughout Easton’s North District and Fenlon Square. Rides are $10 per person, cash only. Children under 15 ride free with a paying adult. Carriages pick up and drop off outside of Zara on Gramercy Street.
Ice skating at Riverside Crossing Park | If you're looking for a fun activity to do on Valentine's Day, head over to Riverside Crossing Park in Dublin for some ice skating. The temporary rink is situated in the lower plaza on the east side of the Dublin Link pedestrian bridge. Admission is $12 per person (complimentary skate rental included).
"Fine dining" at White Castle | In their yearly tradition, many White Castle locations will be transforming their dining rooms into "Love Castles" for couples looking to celebrate over candlelight and sliders. The participating restaurants offer hostess seating, tableside services and festive holiday decor. Book your table here.
Go for a walk or a hike | Columbus has 20 metro parks scattered around the city. Find one closest to you and go for a walk with your significant other. There are also bigger parks that you can visit outside of Columbus like Mohican State Park, Alum Creek, Deer Creek State Park, Griggs Reservoir Park, Delaware State Park, Hocking Hills State Park and more.
"Animals in Love Hike" at Highbanks Metro Park | You can spend Valentine's Day weekend on a 1.5-mile guided hike to learn about how animals share love via odd courtship rituals. This is an 18+ program only.
Want to stay in? Here's some ideas...
Cook a dinner together. Whether it be from your favorite cookbook, YouTube channel or an old family recipe, make something new to enjoy together.
Movie night. Roll out a blanket on the floor, get out the pillows, pop some popcorn and bundle up while watching a movie at home. Make it more unique and craft a charcuterie board that you can snack on during the movie!
Game night. While this may not be for competitive couples, game night can make for a fun and lighthearted night at home.
Write each other a letter. While it may not feel like a big gesture, a letter can go a long way and let's the person know how you feel - plus you can hold on to the letters for as long as you want.
*This list will be updated as we gather information on more events.
