Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is a special day of the year when people express their love and appreciation for each other worldwide. Whether single or taken, Valentine's Day is a great time to celebrate your relationships and create lasting memories.

The History of Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day has been celebrated for centuries, and the origins of the holiday are shrouded in mystery and conflicting mythology. Valentine's Day is often celebrated with grand gestures and declarations of love, but who was the man behind the holiday? The truth is that we are still determining precisely who St. Valentine was. The Catholic Church recognizes three different saints, all named Valentine or Valentinus - all of whom were martyred. One was a priest in Rome, said to be killed by the Roman Emperor Claudius II, for performing weddings for soldiers who weren't allowed to marry. Another man was the bishop in Terni, and the third was a martyr in Africa who possibly died helping Roman soldiers escape from prison. One legend claims that this Valentine fell in love with his jailer's daughter and sent her the very first Valentine before his death, a letter signed "From your Valentine." It's unclear which one was the "real" St. Valentine, but all three were said to have performed acts of charity and kindness.

In the Middle Ages courtly love (conduct by which a knight in love with a lady was expected to act) and romantic love grew in popularity. This code of conduct dictated that a knight would serve his lady without expectation of material gain and that he would be willing to risk his life for her. During this time, it became common for young people to exchange love letters on Valentine's Day. These letters often contained poetic language and expressions of love. The holiday continued to be associated with romance into the modern period..

In the 17th century, English poet John Donne wrote: "A valentine," describing love's physical and spiritual aspects. During this time, valentines were often handmade and given to loved ones. The holiday really took off in the 19th century when Esther Howland began mass-producing valentines in America. Her valentines were so popular that she eventually opened her own business selling them. Hallmark sent it's first postcard in 1910 and grew to be the global industry titan we think of now. Today, many Americans still exchange store-bought valentines with loved ones on Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day Traditions

St. Valentine's Day is a special day to honor love. It is a day when many people celebrate love. Depending on one's tradition, a birthday can be a time to give and receive gifts, celebrate with a special meal, or have a leisurely celebration. There are many different traditions that people follow on Valentine's Day. Some of these traditions are specific to certain cultures or countries, while others are more common. One common tradition in many parts of the world is giving flowers to loved ones. Roses are often given on Valentine's Day, as they are seen as a symbol of love. Another tradition is giving chocolates, which are also seen as a symbol of love and appreciation. In some cultures, exchanging heartfelt letters on Valentine's Day is traditional. This is a practical gesture and can effectively let someone know you care about them. Regardless of the traditions you follow on Valentine's Day; the most important thing is to spend time with those you love.

How to Celebrate Valentine's Day in Denver

If you're in Denver, you're in luck-the city offers plenty of unique and romantic ways to celebrate the holiday. From romantic dinners and special events to outdoor activities and unique gifts, this guide to Valentine's Day celebrations in Denver has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for an intimate escape with your beloved or a fun-filled day with your best friends, Denver has something to offer. Just remember to bring your heart because the Mile High City will show you Valentine's Day you won't soon forget.

If you're in a relationship: Take your sweetheart on a romantic dinner date. Some popular places to dine out on Valentine's Day include Ruth's Chris Steak House, Elway's, and Mizu.

Some of our favorite restaurants are offering prix fixe menus for the Special Day

Babes Tea Room

Babes Tea Room is offering a Valentine's Day Afternoon tea on February 14. Priced at $45 per person and gluten-free/vegan and $29 for children. Including an assortment of savory tea sandwiches, miniature scones served with jam, homemade lemon curd, and Devonshire Cream, Scottish shortbread, homemade Hugs & Kisses-themed petit fours, and a French macaron. Includes unlimited tea tasting.

Red Square Euro Bistro

Red Square Euro Bistro is offering a Valentine's Day 3-course prix-fixe dinner menu on February 14. Priced at $70 per person. The menu will feature some of our most favorite items, as well as dishes created especially for the occasion.

Duo Restaurant

Duo Restaurant is offering a Valentine's Day Denver 2023 special 3-course dinner menu on February 14. Priced at $90 per person.

Briar Common Brewery

Briar Common Brewery is offering a Valentine's Day Denver 2023 menu built for two on February 14. Priced at $60 per person.

More into activities than food? Denver is offering lots of activities for the couples or friends looking for something fun to do!

You could spend evening strolling or biking through Washington Park or Confluence Park. Check out Greenwood Village Tavern before hitting a comedy club like Comedy Works or Voodoo Comedy Playhouse. For daytime; spend the day at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. You can picnic on the lawn while enjoying the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. If you want to relax and enjoy quality time together, spend the Day at one of Denver's spas or go for a couples massage.

Some of our favorites this year include:

Loveland's Annual Valentine's Day Group Wedding

WHEN: Feb. 14, 2023

WHERE: The Budweiser Event Center, Loveland

2023 brings a once in a lifetime opportunity to get married on the ice at The Budweiser Event Center prior to an Eagles hockey game! Experience a romantic ceremony with music you vote on, a customized ceremony, keepsake photos, a lock couples can use to "Lock their love" on the famous LOVE or HEART sculptures in Loveland, gift bags, signature wedding cupcakes, and a chance to win a huge gift basket. What an original way to celebrate your love on Valentine's Day!

Puppy Love Dog Caricatures at The Maven Hotel

WHEN: Feb. 17, 2023

WHERE: The Maven Hotel

The Maven Hotel is offering free Puppy Love Dog Caricatures in the hotel lobby from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. this Friday!

Love Bites: A Valentine's Haunted House

WHEN: Feb. 17-19, 2023

WHERE: 3400 E. 52nd Ave.

13th Floor Denver is getting a Valentine's makeover! Horrific vampires stalk you in the dark. Terrifying monsters lurk around every corner. Love Bites is the perfect experience to spice up this Valentine's weekend. Whether you want to ditch the same old dinner and a movie date, observe Singles Awareness Day, or celebrate with your Galentines, 13th Floor Denver is sure to get your heart pumping. All blood types are welcome.

Lovin' on the Block HE[ART] Installation

WHEN: Thru Feb. 28, 2023

WHERE: Dairy Block Alley

Snap a selfie and steal a smooch at the Lovin' on the Block HE[ART] Installation. Created by Sky Armstrong of Denver's RLY RLY Studio, this sweet and colorful art piece will feature large-scale sculptures of favorite childhood Valentine's candy, including conversation hearts, lollipops and candy necklaces. It will be displayed in the Alley the entire month of February.

If you're looking for a unique and romantic way to celebrate Valentine's Day this year, look no further than Denver. With its stunning mountain views and numerous outdoor activities, Denver is the perfect place to escape everyday stress and spend quality time with your loved ones. From enjoying a romantic dinner at one of Denver's many fine restaurants to going on a scenic hike or ski trip, there are endless ways to remember this Valentine's Day.