Do you remember what it was like to celebrate Valentine’s Day as a kid in school? The holiday always felt so festive!
Classroom parties meant for trading carefully handmade cards, anonymous candygrams or carnations shared between friends, and all the chocolate and candy hearts your own young heart could desire. (If you’re like me, you’d painstakingly set aside the TRUE LUV and UR MINE hearts for the cutest kid in class, and they either never noticed or never said.)
This Valentine’s Day, we’re bringing nostalgia back. Just because you’re too old for class parties doesn’t mean you’re too old to shower your loved ones with affection this February! Whether you plan to celebrate with a new romantic interest, your lifelong love, your kids, or your gal pals, below is a list of things to do in Greeley, Colorado, to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day date.
Order Something Sweet for Your Sweetheart
An idea that’s tired? Snagging the same box of chocolates that you purchased for your valentine last year.
An idea that’s wired? Ordering a custom-made sweet treat from a local Greeley spot.
Love is sweetest when shared, and what better way to say “be mine” than to dig into a hand-made pie from Ellie’s Corner. Caramel Apple Toffee is a sweet and sticky medley sure to warm your heart. With over 12 flavors and a variety of sizes and custom orders, this family run pie shop is a sure bet.
If you prefer even more variety, we love Mom's Popcorn! Pick up a bag with your valentine’s favorite flavor or classic cheddar caramel popcorn mix. There are also select handmade treats available. It’s a perfect valentine for everyone, especially the little ones.
Take a Trip Back in Time at the UCCC
If you share a love for history, pick up tickets to see “Churchill” at the Union Colony Civic Center on February 14. The show, with elements of “The Crown” and “The Darkest Hour,” features veteran British actor David Payne bringing Churchill to life on stage. It’s set in 1963, when Churchill was awarded honorary U.S. citizenship by President John F. Kennedy and reflects on his life in politics, his relationship with America and America’s presidents, and his memories of the two special women in his life—his wife Clementine and Queen Elizabeth. Shows are at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; tickets available at UCStars.com.
Elevate the Traditional “Dinner and a Movie” Date
While we love cuddling up over a bowl of popcorn as much as the next person—the classics are classics for a reason—opt for a slightly fancier take on the dinner-and-a-movie date by visiting the Kress Cinema & Lounge.
From their menu (A French 75 and charcuterie at the movies? Yes, please!), to the vintage atmosphere, to the speakeasy in the basement (Shhh! It’s the perfect place for a nightcap), the Kress makes this otherwise no-frills Valentine’s Day date feel elevated and especially romantic.
Make Your Life Partner Your Dance Partner
If you can finish the line “Heel-toe, do-si-do, come on, baby, let's go…” this is the date for you.
Give the gift of country swing classes from Greeley’s very own Country Kick Up. Whether you attend a drop-in class on a date or choose to register for private lessons or group courses, you and your partner will be a confident dancing duo in no time with the help of Country Kick Up’s instructors.
Bonus: You can feel good about spending your money on this date night! A portion of Country Kick Up’s admission costs go back into our community through charity donations and scholarships for local students.
Date Night Deals
If Valentine’s Day leaves you feeling unromantic, blow off some steam at Greeley Hatchet House. With single and double date deals (including dessert and free drinks), throwing a has never been so fun.
Too much physical activity? Grab a drink at Wiley Roots Brewing Co. and participate in Dungeons, Dragons & Drafts. If you’re worried about not having experience, that’s okay! This round is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to use their imagination.
Teen Game Night
Have a teenager at home? Drop them off at the Rodarte Community Center before you head out for the evening. They’ll love attending the Valentine Teen Night Out on Friday, February 13, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. It’s exclusively for students ages 10-15 or youth in grades 5-8. Enjoy indoor games, crafts, and quality time to hang out with their besties for some fun. Admission is just $3 with a student ID or $4 without one. Find out more online at GreeleyRec.com.
However you celebrate, we hope you take some time to laugh and let loose with the special people in your life this Valentine’s Day. Find even more community events and things to do in Greeley, Colorado, when you visit visitgreeley.com/events.