Valentine’s Day this year falls on a Saturday, which means expectations will be high. It also means that some of the area’s most romantic destinations will fill up quickly, so make those reservations now! Of course Cupid’s special day is not just for couples. It is also a perfect time of year to show our friends, neighbors, co-workers, kids, and even our furry loved ones how much we care. Still feeling guilty about your epic fail in the Christmas card department? Right that wrong and send out a few Valentines!
As for what you can do beyond the usual candle lit dinner options, here are a few suggestions:
Valentine’s Day Cruise from the Blockade Runner – Saturday 2/14 and Sunday 2/15-The Loveboat leaves on the hour from 11 am until 4 pm. $25 per person. The cruise is hosted by Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours and features a romantic tour of the area plus beverages, chocolates and a goodie bag.
http://www.wrightsvillebeachscenictours.com/
Cape Fear River Cruise on the Henrietta Paddle Wheeler – 2/14-6:30 pm until 9 pm. Invite your Valentine to cruise along the scenic Cape Fear River. The dinner dance boards at 6 p.m. and sets sail at 6:30. Enjoy our Captain’s Buffet, entertainment, and a cash bar aboard North Carolina’s largest riverboat. The cruise is $56 per adult, $35 for children ages 2 to 12, available by advance sale only. http://www.cfrboats.com/proddetail.php?prod=1084
The Cape Fear Heart Ball – 2/14-6 pm until 11:30 pm. Support a great cause and enjoy one of the region’s premier black-tie events. For over 16 years, the Heart Ball has attracted the city’s largest companies and leaders. This year it will take place at Union Station on the campus of Cape Fear Community College. Guests will enjoy silent and live auctions, a seated dinner and live music and dancing. By attending, you help build healthier lives free of cardiovascular disease and stroke. http://wilmingtonncheartball.ahaevents.org/
Hugs and Fishes at the N.C. Aquarium at Ft. Fisher – Friday 2/13 thru Saturday 2/1-Kids will play games, make crafts and enjoy nature education programs. Staff supervise all activities. Dinner, snacks and breakfast provided. For $55 per child, they will enjoy fully supervised activities plus dinner, snacks and breakfast. HOURS: 6pm to 9am. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
http://www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher
That’s A Moray! Valentine Dinner-N.C. Aquarium at Ft. Fisher – Why should the kids have all the fun? Now the grownups can enjoy an evening of dinner with exhibit views, dancing, cash bar, and a memorable photo opportunity. HOURS: 6:30-10pm-reservations required: http://www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher
Live at Birdland-Kenan Auditorium – UNC-Wilmington – 2/14-7 pm. Ticket prices range from $5 to $22. Calling all jazz lovers! The Arts in Action Performance Series at UNCW presents Live at Birdland at Kenan Auditorium. The famous Birdland night club was founded in New York City in 1949. Frequent performers included jazz greats Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonius Monk. UNC-W’s Live at Birdland recreates that atmosphere, showcasing the Birdland Big Band directed by Tommy Igoe and showcasing classic jazz pieces as well as new arrangements by such luminaries as Sting, Herbie Hancock, and Lennon/McCartney. http://uncw.edu/presents/
Valentine’s Day Jazz at the CAM – Saturday 2/14-6:30 pm until 8 pm. The Cameron Art Museum presents a special Valentine’s Day edition of Jazz at the CAM featuring the romantic tunes of Julie Rehder & Jack Krupicka Quartet. Dinner and drinks available at CaféJohnnie’s until 9pm-$5 to $10
http://www.cameronartmuseum.org/