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- Louisville offers over 30 events for Valentine’s Day, including options for couples, friends, and even exes.
- Activities range from romantic dinners and candlelit hikes to craft markets and pottery classes.
- Several “Galentine’s Day” events are available for those celebrating friendship.
- For a unique experience, the Louisville Nature Center will name a cockroach after your ex and feed it to a turtle.
There’s no shortage of ways to show your sweetie how you feel this Valentine’s Day.
From fancy, romantic dinners to Galentine’s Day parties and everything in between, here are more than 30 events, in date order, to help you celebrate your loved ones this Valentine’s Day in Louisville.
WHAT: The Louisville Nature Center will name a cockroach with the name of your choosing and feed them to their turtle, Francis. Participants will receive a personalized certificate or receive a video of the cockroach that you named being fed to him. Every donation goes toward improving visitors’ experience, from repairing trail boardwalks to enhancing the Nature Play Area.
WHERE: 3745 Illinois Ave.
WHEN: now through Feb. 5
COST: $20 for a certificate; $30 certificate and video; $50 certificate, video and donating a little extra to a great cause.
MORE INFORMATION: Louisville Nature Center reserves the right to decline submissions. louisvillenaturecenter.org.
Valentine’s Day Escape Package
WHAT: Show that special someone you care by treating them to a one-night getaway at Shaker Village. Includes a night in a king or queen guest room, an in-room gift to share with that special someone, and drink vouchers for a special Valentine’s adult beverage. Enjoy breakfast for two at The Trustees’ Table.
WHERE: The Inn, Shaker Village, 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg
WHEN: Feb. 6 and 7
COST: $243 plus tax for two
MORE INFORMATION: Reservations are required for breakfast. shakervillageky.org/the-inn.
WHAT: The annual Shakespeare in Love Gala features music from the Jerry Tolson Jazz Trio, theatrical performances from Kentucky Shakespeare, strolling entertainers, tarot readings, poetry buskers from Sarabande Books, raffles, DJ, dancing, Brown-Forman cocktails, hors d’oeuvres by Proof on Main, desserts, and the 66th season announcement.
WHERE: 21c Museum Hotel, 700 W. Main St.
WHEN: Feb. 7, 7-11 p.m.
COST: $150 per person, $250 per couple, $1,200 for a group of 10, $50 dancing and drinks only (9-11 p.m.)
MORE INFORMATION: Cocktail attire. Deadline for reservation is Feb. 1. Special room rate for those who want to spend the night at 21c Museum Hotel, $179. kyshakespeare.com/gala.
WHAT: The Huber Orchard & Winery annual chocolate and wine pairing event includes complimentary chocolates from Schimpff’s Confectionery, expertly paired with Huber’s award-winning wines.
WHERE: Huber Orchard & Winery, 19816 Huber Road, Starlight, Indiana
WHEN: Feb. 7, 14, 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Feb. 8, 15, 22, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
COST: Tickets start at $15
MORE INFORMATION: 812-923-9463; visithubers.com.
WHAT: The vendor market features local vendors, sweet treats, and gift ideas for your valentine.
WHERE: Jefferson Mall, 4801 Outer Loop
WHEN: Feb. 7, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Feb. 8, noon to 6 p.m.
COST: Admission is free
MORE INFORMATION: eventbrite.com.
WHAT: Bring your Valentine, bestie or child to this paint party and paint an adorable heart-covered owl, big eyes, soft colors, and all the love vibes. BYOB friendly and supplies are provided.
WHERE: A Purposeful Ponte Studio, Austin Office Building, 1939 Goldsmith Lane
WHEN: Feb. 7, 3 p.m.
COST: $41.54
MORE INFORMATION: The studio is on the 2nd floor and there are no elevators in the building. eventbrite.com.
WHAT: Celebrate the season of love with music by DJ Jazzy V, exclusive brunch menu, special drinks, group karaoke and a canvas kit.
WHERE: Lovely Events Hall & Services, 728 S. 26th St.
WHEN: Feb. 7, 2-6 p.m.
COST: Tickets start at $35
MORE INFORMATION: For ages 21 and older. eventbrite.com.
WHAT: Create your own small art-book. Learn the art of zine making. Great for making unique valentines to keep or give away. Snacks and libations provided. Adult workshop.
WHERE: KMAC Contemporary Art Museum, 715 W. Main St.
WHEN: Feb. 7, 10 a.m. to noon
COST: Start at $35, $30 KMAC members
MORE INFORMATION: kmacmuseum.org/adult-workshops.
WHAT: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Stitzel-Weller. Enjoy a bourbon and chocolate pairing and create your very own cocktail using mixology techniques and hand-crafted syrups designed by Garden & Gun Bartenders. Learn about the history of the cocktail itself as well as how to pick up flavor nuances between bourbon and chocolate.
WHERE: Stitzel-Weller Experience, 3860 Fitzgerald Road
WHEN: Feb. 7, 3 p.m.
COST: Tickets start at $55
MORE INFORMATION: bourboncountry.com/events/mixology-class-valentines-day-edition.
WHAT: For the girls, gays, and theys who want to vibe, vent, and aggressively pipe frosting onto something that can’t talk back with their besties. Decorate cupcakes, drink caffeine and get roasted. Includes four seasonal cupcakes and unlimited roasting. This is not a class, it’s an experience.
WHERE: The Cottage on Eastview, 10407 Eastview Ave.
WHEN: Feb. 7, 12:30-2 p.m.
COST: $37.10
MORE INFORMATION: eventbrite.com.
WHAT: Learn the basics of decorating pre-baked sugar cookies with expert cookie designer Jillian Mora, owner of A Traveling Cupcake, while sipping on a special Valentine’s Day cocktail. Materials provided. Program fee includes Jillian’s royal icing and cookie recipe, one complimentary general admission ticket to Shaker Village and one voucher for 20% off dining at The Trustees’ Table (excluding alcoholic beverages).
WHERE: Shaker Village, 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, Ky.
WHEN: Feb. 7, 3-5 p.m.
COST: $85
MORE INFORMATION: For ages 21 and older. Reservations are required. shakervillageky.org.
WHAT: Celebrate your besties at the ultimate Galentine’s bash with shopping at the vendor market, enjoy food and beverages, photo ops, hourly giveaways and interactive activities.
WHERE: Van Gogh Room, Mellwood Art Center, 1860 Mellwood Ave.
WHEN: Feb. 8, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
COST: $10
MORE INFORMATION: womanownedwallet.com.
WHAT: PNC Broadway in Louisville presents the show based on the classic American novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The Tony Award-winning new musical is an unforgettable journey of love, wealth and tragedy that brings the Roaring Twenties to life on stage.
WHERE: Whitney Hall, Kentucky Center, 501 W. Main St.
WHEN: Feb. 10-13, 7 p.m.; Feb. 14, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 15, 1 and 6:30 p.m.
COST: Tickets start at $58.30
MORE INFORMATION: kentuckyperformingarts.org.
WHAT: Gather your girlfriends and create a unique ceramic decorative tray with crushed glass and resin. No experience necessary. Materials are provided.
WHERE: 10525 Old Taylorsville Road
WHEN: Feb. 12, 6:15-8:30 p.m.
COST: $57.38
MORE INFORMATION: eventbrite.com.
WHAT: Call your besties and get ready for a Ladies’ Night Out: Galentine’s Edition at Westport Village. Features exclusive cocktails from Prova Spirits at Osteria Italian Seafood; $5 print photobooth with adoptable puppies from Kentucky Humane Society at Three Dog Bakery; bracelet-making bar at Milk & Honey; Hawley Trucker Hat Bar pop-up at Darling State of Mind; complimentary Vitamin B12 shots at Scout Aesthetics and shops will be offering special deals for shoppers such as free gifts with purchase or one-night-only discounts. Westport Village will also be providing free gifts including tote bags, mini jewelry cases and martini glasses, while supplies last.
WHERE: 1315 Herr Lane
WHEN: Feb. 12, 5-8 p.m.
MORE INFORMATION: westportvillage.com/event/galentines-night-out.
WHAT: Valentine cabaret with the Louisville Chorus performing a program of love songs, a buffet dinner, open bar, raffle with a chance to win $2,500 in restaurant gift cards and silent auction where you can bid on unique items and experiences while supporting the arts.
WHERE: Woodhaven Country Club, 7200 Woodhaven Road
WHEN: Feb. 13, 6 p.m.
COST: $100 per person, $700 fora table of eight ([email protected])
MORE INFORMATION: Reservations only. louisvillechorus.org.
WHAT: Candles light the path underneath the stars on this Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day hike. Hike at your leisure, either on the candlelit short trail (about 3/4 mile), or the unlit longer trail (1 3/4 mile). Warm up around the fire afterward with a s’more and hot chocolate, or head indoors, where you can visit the reptiles and enjoy snacks and drinks.
WHERE: 3745 Illinois Ave.
WHEN: Feb. 13 and 14, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
COST: $30, $22 LNC members
MORE INFORMATION: For ages 18 and older. 502-458-1328; louisvillenaturecenter.org.
WHAT: Gather your besties and head to Hotel Bourré Bonne for a Galentine party. This high-gloss rooftop party is defined by deep reds, low light, and a night of unapologetic style. Features a premium open bar, hor d’oeuvres and dancing to the music of DJ Junior of Glittertitz.
WHERE: Hotel Bourre Bonne Curio Collection, 133 W. Market St., 6th Floor
WHEN: Feb. 13, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
COST: $125 single, $195 for two, $950 for a private table for eight
MORE INFORMATION: bourrebonneevents.com
WHAT: Treat your Valentine to a special Valentine’s LUV Night (Learn • Understand • Visit) at Second Chances Wildlife Center. This intimate, adults-only evening is designed for couples who love animals and unique experiences. Couples will enjoy a wildlife dating themed presentation, champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, up-close time with wildlife education ambassadors and a take-home memento to remember the night.
WHERE: Second Chances Wildlife Center, 487 Gentry Lane, Mt. Washington, Ky.
WHEN: Feb. 13, 7-8:30 p.m.
COST: Starts at $150
MORE INFORMATION: eventbrite.com.
WHAT: Comedian Gary Owen is known for his unapologetic, rule-defying style, his material draws from his personal life, time in the military and the everyday absurdities that connect people across all backgrounds.
WHERE: Brown Theatre, 315 W. Broadway
WHEN: Feb. 13, 8 p.m.
COST: Tickets start at $35.10. VIP packages available.
MORE INFORMATION: Recommended for ages 12 and older. kentuckyperformingarts.org.
WHAT: Grab your bestie, sisters, mom, or anyone you love spending time with for a fun, low-pressure pottery class designed to celebrate friendship. Features a guided introduction to the pottery wheel, plenty of hands-on time with clay, and individual help throughout the class. Expect messy hands, lots of laughs, and a creative experience.
WHERE: 4601 Jennings Lane
WHEN: Feb. 13, 10-11:30 a.m.; 2-3:30 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m.
COST: $75.48
MORE INFORMATION: eventbrite.com.
WHAT: Express your love by sending a singing valentine from the Thoroughbred Singing Quartet in tuxes. They will sing two love songs and give that special someone a single red rose and a personalized card. Send to a group and receive three love songs, up to five roses, and five cards.
WHEN: Feb. 13, 14, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
WHERE: Jefferson County and Harrison, Floyd and Clark counties in Southern Indiana
COST: $75 single; $250 for a group
MORE INFORMATION: 502-267-7464; thethoroughbreds.org.
WHAT: The Last Refuge is a premier whiskey bar and dining destination set in a restored 1880s church in NuLu. Choose your setting, The Amber Room offers intimate tables bathed in warm light, perfect for lingering and leaning in and The Church Bar delivers a bar-led experience with moody sound, shadowed corners, and cocktails meant to be savored. Serving, cocktails, bourbon, salads, tavern-style pizza, sandwiches and more.
WHERE: 600 E. Market St.
WHEN: Feb. 13 and 14, 4 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Feb. 15, 4-10 p.m.
MORE INFORMATION: 502-208-4900; thelastrefuge.com.
WHAT: Get married without the hassle at the Frazier Museum. Includes a wedding with up to ten guest, champagne toast, cake, one complimentary portrait/ videography of the ceremony and floral decor.
WHERE: Frazier Kentucky History Museum, 829 W. Main St.
WHEN: Feb. 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
COST: $500
MORE INFORMATION: Spots are limited. Contact [email protected] or 502-587-0941. fraziermuseum.org.
WHAT: A romantic night that includes a gourmet meal and entertainment from Hope Darst.
WHERE: Crown Plaza Louisville, 830 Phillips Lane
WHEN: Feb. 14. Doors open at 5 p.m.; dinner, 5:30 p.m.
COST: $238 per couple
MORE INFORMATION: Free parking. wjie.org; givebutter.com/c/lovestory.
WHAT: Couples can have their photos taken on a vintage fire truck, receive a package of Schimpff’s Confectionery heart-shaped red hots, and champagne toast, and tour the museum.
WHERE: 706 Spring St., Jeffersonville, Indiana
WHEN: Feb. 14, 5-7 p.m.
COST: $12, $6 for members
MORE INFORMATION: vintagefiremuseum.org
WHAT: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Love in Three Acts: A Valentine’s Dining Experience.The dinner includes a candlelit three-course dinner, wine, long stem rose, and music by Quintrilogy. The menu can be viewed at VisitBlackacre.org.
WHERE: Blackacre Conservancy, 3200 Tucker Station Road
WHEN: Feb. 14. Reservation times: 5:30, 6:15 and 7:30 p.m.
COST: $200 per couple, larger parties welcome
MORE INFORMATION: Reservations are required and can be made at 502-266-9802. visitblackacre.org.
WHAT: This is a silent party, which means you control the soundtrack to your morning. Choose from three DJ stations, Old School R&B, New School R&B and Love Sucks. Charcuterie-style grazing table with sweet and savory bites, fresh fruit, pastries, cheeses, and Valentine’s Day treats, sips and dancing. VIP Experience, includes entry for four, decorated VIP section, mimosa kit sponsored by Korbel, disposable cameras for the table and brunch access. Dress code, silk pajamas encouraged.
WHERE: Tribe, 430 S. Third St.
WHEN: Feb. 14, 9 a.m.
COST: $30.23 general admission, $284.73 for VIP
MORE INFORMATION: eventbrite.com
WHAT: Couples will paint together, date night with a twist. BYOB (bring your own bottle) friendly, instructions, pre-drawn canvases and supplies provided.
WHERE: Austin Office Building, 1939 Goldsmith Lane, Suite 218
WHEN: Feb. 14, 5 p.m.
COST: $75.48 per couple; $41.54 single
MORE INFORMATION: eventbrite.com.
WHAT: The evening is a total experience with jazz music, wine and spirits tastings, cigar bar, art exhibits, extraordinary chefs, and more.
WHERE: Kentucky Center for African-American Heritage, 1701 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd.
WHEN: Feb. 14, 7-11 p.m.
COST: $79.88
MORE INFORMATION: louisvillejazz.org/event/destination-smooth-jazz-series/
WHAT: Multi-Platinum recording artist and CMA Awards Entertainer of the Year nominee Cody Johnson brings his electrifying live performance to Louisville for a special Valentine’s Day concert.
WHERE: KFC Yum! Center, One Arena Plaza
WHEN: Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m.
COST: Tickets start at $91
MORE INFORMATION: kfcyumcenter.com/events/detail/cody-johnson-live.
WHAT: Crushed Ice Catering presents an intimate immersive culinary experience at The Ice House and features a cocktail hour with bites, three course dinner with wine pairing and a dessert and martini lounge.
WHERE: Ice House Louisville, 226 E. Washington St.
WHEN: Feb. 14, 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
COST: Starts at $160 per person
MORE INFORMATION: When purchasing your ticket, pre-select your entree and provide any dietary restrictions eventbrite.com.
WHAT: Listeso String Quartet presents a multi-sensory musical experience featuring music of Vivaldi, Jules Massenet, Max Richter and other Valentine-themed songs under the glow of candlelight.
WHERE: Pamela Brown Auditorium, Actors Theatre of Louisville, 316 W. Main St.
WHEN: Feb. 14, 6:15 p.m.
COST: Tickets start at $28.50
MORE INFORMATION: Doors open 75 minutes before the show. No entry once it starts. feverup.com/en/louisville.
WHAT: Love rebels can learn about the naughtier side of life at Pleasant Hill during Naughty at Night evenings. This experience begins with a stroll through historic buildings where you’ll hear stories about the naughtier side of life at Pleasant Hill, followed by some forbidden foods, including a signature cocktail.
WHERE: Shaker Village, 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, Ky.
WHEN: Feb. 14 and 21, 5:30-6:30 p.m. and 7-8 p.m.
COST: $30
MORE INFORMATION: Reservations are required. shakervillageky.org.
WHAT: The show features virtually every number one single the band achieved in the United Kingdom or United States.
WHERE: Bomhard Theater, Kentucky Center, 401 W. Main St.
WHEN: Feb. 15, 7 p.m.
COST: Tickets start at $32.45
MORE INFORMATION: kentuckyperformingarts.org.
WHAT: Bring your favorite person to the 9th Annual Clay Date where each duo will make and glaze pieces of pottery to pick up when fired. Learn the basics of hand building and throwing on a pottery wheel from Suzy Hatcher and KMAC educators. Snacks and libations provided. Adult workshop.
WHERE: KMAC Contemporary Art Museum, 715 W. Main St.
WHEN: Feb. 15, 1-4 p.m.
COST: $100 per couple, $90 KMAC members
MORE INFORMATION: kmacmuseum.org/adult-workshops.
Reach features news clerk Gege Reed at [email protected].
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.courier-journal.com ’














