With the end of January and the start of February in sight this week, it’s the perfect time to get excited for all things Valentine’s Day. In Vancouver, that means indulging in themed treats and special menus for two, treating yourself to some quality self-care, and exploring popular local attractions with your loved ones.
From the science of sex to romantic afternoon tea, here are 8 amazing things to do in Vancouver to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year.
Science World After Dark: Science of Love & Sex
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From 6 to 10 pm on Thursday, February 8th, Science World is hosting a special edition of their adults-only After Dark series called “The Science of Love & Sex.” Visitors (19+) can explore the museum’s existing galleries and exhibits, as well as enjoy sensational performances and gain steamy insights from UBC’s ‘sexperts.’
This includes two mini-talks and an “As Me Anything” Q&A with UBC’s Sexuality and Well-Being Lab experts about all things sex, pleasure, and body sovereignty.
When: Thursday, February 8th
Where: Science World
Cost: $32
Saint Valentine Afternoon Tea
Situated within the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa, Bacchus Restaurant & Lounge is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a special Afternoon Tea service, featuring a selection of romantically-themed savoury and sweet delights. This includes gourmet sandwiches, house-made pastries, premium teas, and optional caviar service and sparkling cocktails.
When: February 11th and 12th
Where: 845 Hornby Street
Cost: $72 per person
Minami’s Valentine’s Day Shokai
If you’re looking for a special occasion splurge, you can treat yourself and a loved one to a special Shokai menu at Yaletown’s popular Minami Restaurant. The six-course dinner features fresh premium sashimi, a surf and turf plate, a selection of Minami’s famous Aburi sushi, and a Strawberry Sesame Mousse for dessert.
Note that wine and sake pairings are available at an additional cost.
When: February 14th
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Cost: $225 per person
Love Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge
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Ready to treat yourself and a loved one to a special illuminated experience this Valentine’s Day? North Vancouver’s famed Capilano Suspension Bridge is set to transform for much of February, and if you loved their holiday-themed Canyon Lights display, you’ll definitely want to check this out.
When: Friday, February 2nd to February 25th
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Cost: $59.95 to $66.95 per adult
Happy Valentine’s Sip ‘n Shop Event
Pacific Arts is hosting a special Valentine’s Day market where guests can sip on delightful drinks as they shop for gifts for their loved ones. If you’re looking to shop local and find something one-of-a-kind to give your favourite person (or yourself), it’s worth checking out!
When: Sunday, February 11th
Where: 1448 West Broadway
Cost: $9.85
Valentine’s Day Experience at H Tasting Lounge
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Want to treat your Valentine or Galentine to a romantic evening dining under the stars? This Valentine’s Day, H Tasting Lounge is bringing a special experience to the popular Winterlust domes, complete with six courses and expertly paired champagne and wines. Each dome can comfortably seat two to six guests, and reservations are made for two and a half hours.
When: February 14th
Where: 1601 Bayshore Drive
Cost: $300 plus taxes and gratuity
Candlelight Valentine’s Day in Vancouver
If you’re trying to plan the ideal date night for Valentine’s Day, you can’t go wrong with one of these candlelit concerts. For two nights, Fever’s Candlelight Concert Series is back in Vancouver with special Valentine’s Day-themed performances that jazz lovers are sure to enjoy.
On February 14th and 16th, the Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church will be illuminated by thousands of candles, transforming the space into a romantic experience for two.
When: Wednesday, February 14th and Friday, February 16th
Where: 2733 West 41st Avenue
Cost: Varies
Greater Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival
Chocolate lovers likely need no reminder that Vancouver’s beloved Hot Chocolate Fest is in full swing, but we’ll give one anyway. Hot chocolate enthusiasts have until February 14th to check out over 100 new specialty cups of cocoa at dozens of participating cafes and bakeries – and it’s certainly way cheaper than a night out!
When: January 13th to February 14th
Where: Participating vendors across Metro Vancouver
And that’s a wrap on some ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day – whether you’re in a couple, flying solo, or wanting to mark the occasion with a friend or two.
Happy month of love!
