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Ways to Say "I Love You": Your Guide to Valentine's Day


From sweet treats to date night activities, there are plenty of ways to show your romantic partners or beloved friends “I Love You” by celebrating Valentine’s Day the Downtown Raleigh way. ❤️

If your business is offering Valentine’s Day events, specials, or products please contact communications@downtownraleigh.org to be included in this guide.

Ticketed Events & Reservations


Gifts

Curate | 15 W Hargett St.

Hot sauce valentines

DECO Raleigh | 207 S Salisbury St.

Fragrant candles

Decree Company | 135 E Martin St.

Letterpress cards 

Ealdwine | 412 S McDowell St.

Men's high-end leather shoes

Quercus Studio | 201 S Salisbury St.

Handmade fine jewelry

The Self Care Marketplace | 12 W Martin St.

Artisan self-care products

TG Floristry | 130 E Morgan St.

Custom flower bouquets

Find more Downtown Raleigh retailers here

 

Sweet Treats for Your Sweetie

Amitie Macaron | 227 Fayetteville St.

Captain Cookie and the Milkman | 500 E Davie St.

The Cupcake Shoppe Bakery | 104 Glenwood Ave

Escazú Chocolates | 936 N Blount St.

Layered Croissanterie | 911 N West St.

Sugar Euphoria | 606 N Person St.

Yellow Dog Bread Company | 219 E Franklin St.

 

Date Ideas

Embrace the local, Downtown Raleigh spirit by trying whiskey & Videri chocolate pairings at Whiskey Kitchen.

Go on an atmospheric walk through one of the many Downtown Raleigh art studios & galleries like 311 Gallery, CAM, Artspace, and others

Try something new at one of Joy Worthy Co's many Valentines-themed events or workshops.

A movie date is a classic choice so get your tickets for two at Marbles IMAX Theater

Let all your stress melt away at Adara Spa during a couple’s massage.

The Carolina Ballet is hosting breathtaking and romantic performances of Rhapsody in Blue.

If you’re a competitive couple, see who can get the highest score playing games at Boxcar Bar and Arcade or Side Quest Game Lounge and Bar.

Escape your normal routine and have a sweetheart staycation at the Longleaf Hotel.

Take a romantic Sip N’ Stroll walk around the city with your favorite alcoholic beverage from a participating bar. 

If your furry friend is your one true love, head to Hause of Dogs to pick up canine-friendly sweetheart cookies.

 

Wine & Dine 

Sparks will fly at House of Art's Valentines-themed pop-up bar, House of Love.

Get that perfect bottle of wine by doing a tasting at The Hippo Wine Bar + Shop.

Indulge in some freshly-baked desserts and craft cocktails at Bittersweet.

Death & Taxes offers a luxury drinking & dining experience inside one of Downtown Raleigh’s oldest buildings.

Find some skyline views on the rooftop at The Willard Rooftop Lounge or head underground for an intimate dive-bar experience at Neptunes Parlour.

Soak in the charming and romantic vibes of historical City Market with dinner at City Market Sushi.

Make Date Night a Date Day and grab brunch at The Flavor Hills.

 

Romantic Activities and Events 

Stupid Cupid Shindig | Unlikely Professionals

Thursday, February 8th

No matter how you prefer to celebrate (or not celebrate) Valentine's Day, Edge of Urge and Unlikely Professionals want to party with you. Stop by for local vendors and a FREE wine tasting!

Valentine's at The Willard | The Willard Rooftop Lounge

Friday, February 9th – Sunday, February 18th

Head to The Willard Rooftop Lounge before or after your dinner for a special dessert and champagne pairing for two overlooking the Downtown Raleigh skyline.

Valentine's Day Speed Dating | Incendiary Brewing Taproom

Tuesday, February 13th

The only thing Incendiary Brewing loves more than beer, is love. The evening will include a series of 3-minute mini dates, plus some time in between to grab a round of drinks.

Pop-Up Shops Valentine's Day Paint, Sip & ShopPop-Up Shops at Martin Street

Wednesday, February 14th

Unleash your creativity and indulge in a fun-filled evening of painting, sipping, and shopping with your loved ones. Hosted by Pop-Up Shops tenants Art by SRG and Needle & Thread Co.

“Love Candle” Making Bar w. Complimentary Champagne | The Self Care Marketplace

Wednesday, February 14th

Customize a pre-poured candle to include herbs, botanicals, and crystals with the intention to encourage Philautia Love more commonly referred to as “Self Love” and to celebrate & destigmatize Eros Love known as “Erotic Love."

Swift Me Away: A Taylor Swift V-Day Dance Party | The Pour House Music Hall

Wednesday, February 14th

Enter your "Lover" era at Pour House's Taylor Swift dance party night.

Valentine's Dinner & Cocktails | 10th & Terrace

Tuesday, February 13th – Saturday, February 17th

Bring your special someone to Overlook restaurant for a three-course Valentine’s dinner and drinks experience. 

Heartbreak Hotel: A Post-Valentine's Party | Longleaf Hotel

Sunday, February 18th

The Longleaf Lounge is throwing a post-Valentine’s Day Party with DJ Luxe Posh featuring break up songs and all things anti-V-Day.