When you think of February, you often think of love, or more specifically Valentine’s Day. Of course, the meaning and way you celebrate this “holiday” will vary based on your current relationship status. Whether you are single, in a relationship or have kids, we wanted to share some of our own recommendations for making the most out of this day (or week) in Edmonton. Maybe, even some ideas to bring fun into other days of the year. Can you guess which of the TruHome team members recommended which ones?

With Kids

• Valentine’s Day Breakfast: Include your kids in the festivities by making a valentine’s themed breakfast. This is one of my absolute favourite meals, so I love the idea of making it a fun occasion in which the whole family can celebrate this day together. Once you are married with children, this day feels more about taking time to acknowledge and share your love and joy with the special people in your lives. In this case, it definitely includes my sweet boys, Harrison and Elias. I found this fantastic blog called Love & Marriage that features 25 delicious looking Valentine’s themed breakfast recipes. The red velvet pancakes looking especially yummy. If your not much into cooking at home, then I would definitely recommend the latest restaurant to hit the yeg breakfast scene, OEB Breakfast Co. located on Rice Howard Way (it will soon be open on 124th street as well).
• Mini Photo Session: I love getting some professional photos with my kids during the year. Many local photographers offer affordable photo sessions often called “mini-sessions”. The prices typically range from $60-$125.00 for a 15-30 minute session. It is fun for everyone to dress up and make some beautiful memories. The Dress Lounge, is hosting a photography session on February 9th and 10th with Simply V Photography. You can buy tickets here.
• Arts & Crafts With The Kiddos: When I was growing up, my mom always encouraged us to hand make our Valentine’s cards. At the time, I always wondered why we didn’t just go and buy them, but now as an adult I really appreciate the effort my mom put in to get our “creative” brains flowing and to spend quality time with us. Now that Harrison is going to daycare part time, I’m hoping to take a morning to make some personalized Valentine’s cards he can take to school. There are so many great ideas online. Michelle from the Edmonton Mama blog shares a few ones as well. Made Social Co, also offers a fun DIY project of creating a “Limited Edition Valentine’s Day Necklace”.  For only $17.00 dollars, you can purchase the kit and make it at home.
• At Home Date Night: With 2 kids under 3 years old, my husband and I try to make the most of our evenings together once the boys go to bed. Personally, I love when we get a chance to stay in and relax (especially on a colder night). To make Valentine’s a little more special, a trip to 104th street is a great solution to bring a romantic date home. Pick-up a charcuterie board from Cavern to-go, some delicious chocolates from JACEK, and some wine or beer from DeVine Wines and Spirits. Sounds like a perfect Edmonton evening in. Watch a movie, chat or even play one of your favourite board games.

With A Date

• Muttart After Dark: Plan a date night and arrange for a playdate or babysitter for the kids. The Muttart Conservatory offers a great Valentine’s themed night out on February 13th. During the tour, you can plan for dinner at Culina’s with their Hungry For Love dinner with a shareable fondue, delicious main dishes, JACEK Chocolate Couture and wine pairings. You can also purchase some treats from Caramunchies and even make your own corsages to take home.
• Watch A Comedy Show: Take a night on the town to watch Paul Mecurio at The Comic Strip in West Edmonton Mall. This is a great date night activity, especially for a first date because it keeps you entertained (you can avoid those potential awkward conversation moments) and you can gauge yours date’s sense of humour – do you find the same things funny. Paul was a “wall street lawyer” by turned, comedian by night, until his love for comedy won out turning into his full time (very successful) gig. His act will be available for viewing from February 14th – February 17th.
• Murder Mystery Party:  Fun fact, earlier in her career, Caitlin was the general manager of “Hulbert’s” a charming coffee shop/wine bar in the neighbourhood of Belgravia. For A New Year’s party one year, we attended a Murder Msytery and got to act out the scenes as staring characters. Not only was it a super fun night, it was an amazing evening where we met some really awesome Edmontonians. In fact, some of them we still see and call our friends to this day. If you would like to be immersed in the act, be sure to purchase tickets to “Loved To Death: Valentine’s Murder Mystery Dinner” at Tom Goodchild’s Moose Factory.
• Snowshoe & Stargaze: Okay, this one could probably also fall into an option of including the kids and/or even your favourite fur-babies. Drive out to Elk Island Park on Valentine’s Weekend and experience the stunning winter beauty while you enjoy snowshoeing in the snow during a short hike, followed by some goodies, a bon-fire and a lesson on the night sky. You might even get a chance to see the northern lights.

Going Solo

• Speed Dating: Maybe you will find a Valentine’s Date if you sign up for a fun night of speed-dating on February 10th at On The Rocks. Titled “The Valentine’s Dating Game”, featuring comedian Sterling Scott as your host/singles wrangler, it will definitely be a fun time had by all. Meet interesting people, win some prizes and enjoy a live band 69 Ave and DJ Kenny K. They are also hosting an event on February 15th called Valentine, Meet, Mix & Mingle.
• Galentine’s Day: Our amazing friend Coral, owner of Events by ACE’d is hosting a fabulous event for “ladies to celebrate ladies” on February 12th at Wilfred’s. Experience an exclusive interactive cocktail workshop, with a paired menu tasting. Not sure, what Galentine’s Day is? “It’s a legit question — especially if you don’t watch Parks and Recreation, where it finds its origins — but if you aren’t observing this fictional holiday, you are missing out. As Leslie Knope once said, it’s only the best day of the year. And, well, she’s right.” You can buy ticket’s to this awesome event here and be sure to give a big shout out to our beautiful friend – we adore you.