The weather might be cold in Toronto, but we’re ready to heat things up with an extra special Valentine’s Day this year. From ice skating at WinterViews to an intimate dinner at one of the city’s best restaurants, here are some ideas to make this holiday one you or your loved one won’t forget!
Here’s a list of 20 romantic things to do for Valentine’s Day in Toronto this year.
1. Take them to a Valentine’s-themed Candlelight Concert
What’s more romantic than a Valentine’s Day special Candlelight Concert to celebrate love in Toronto? Sit back and relax while the classically-trained Listeso string quartet takes on some of the most romantic love songs of all time at The Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto. After all, what could be more endearing than a candlelit concert inspired by music from the likes of Romeo and Juliet?
2. Dine “under the sea” at Ripley’s Aquarium
Ripley’s Aquarium in Toronto will be hosting their super popular Valentine’s Day Dinner again this year, where you and your date can enjoy an intimate three-course meal within their epic shark tunnel or beside the tropical Rainbow Reef exhibit. There will also be a live band performing, and your tickets will get you access to the Lover’s Lounge after your meal.
3. Hit the city’s newest sauna and ice bath studio
Sweat it out with your date at Alter, the city’s latest wellness destination to focus on hot and cold exposure, featuring a spacious sauna, four-person ice baths, breathwork classes, and cozy lounge spaces to unwind in. For Valentine’s Day, Alter is offering a Two for $75 Package from February 1 – 15, where you and your date can book either a self-led drop-in or instructor-led class.
They also have two special edition Supportive Connections Classes on February 10 and 14, focusing on how you and your partner can rely on each other for support in the sauna and ice bath. You’re sure to leave feeling refreshed and closer than ever, having strengthened your bond through breathwork, movement, and alternating between hot and cold temperatures.
4. Laugh it off at a comedy show
If you or your partner enjoy a good comedy show, check out Relationship Status: Valentine’s Day Comedy Show at the Caliban Arts Theatre on February 14.
Whether you’re single, divorced, coupled up, or in a situationship of sorts, you’re guaranteed a night of laughs from some of Canada’s best comics and their take on various dating situations. Doors open at 7 p.m. and tickets are $20 for singles and $35 for couples.
5. Enjoy dinner at one of the city’s best restaurants
Our city has no shortage of amazing world-class restaurants, with new ones popping up so frequently it’s hard to keep track. The city has something for all budgets and palates, from cheap and delicious eats to Michelin Star fine dining.
If you’re searching for something new to try this winter, consider one of these establishments which opened up over the past year or so.
6. Pick up some sweet treats at The Winter Chocolate Show
If your Valentine is a chocolate-lover, be sure to stop by The Winter Chocolate Show in advance and surprise them with some decadent goodies. Happening on February 10 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., the festival will take over the Appel Salon at the Toronto Reference Library, where you’ll be able to indulge in tastings from local vendors, sit in on seminars and panels from chocolate experts, and purchase your own to take home.
7. Ice skate and book a private cabin at WinterViews
Toronto’s largest outdoor patio has transformed into a winter wonderland called WinterViews, complete with a skating rink, cozy cabins, firepits, and more! Found at 229 Richmond St W, you can ice skate for free, warm up with a seasonal beverage at the Back Country Lodge, or book a more private dining experience in one of their 10 Northern Cabins complete with a personal fire pit you can roast marshmallows over.
8. Attend an 80s-themed prom party
Step back in time and dance the night away at the Totally 80s Prom! The Bata Shoe Museum is throwing a 1980s-themed Prom Party on Valentine’s Day, featuring appetizers, a retro photo booth, DJ playing 80s hits, and access to the museum’s current exhibitions. Attendees and encouraged to dress up in their best 80s-inspired fit for the occasion. Tickets start at $35.
9. Visit STACKT Market’s Sweet City Fest
For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss Sweet City Fest which takes over STACKT Market from February 9 – 19! Pick up some goodies from over 100 local vendors, sip on hot beverages, peruse art exhibits, and engage in various other activities. There will also be live performances, workshops, community events, and other forms of entertainment.
10. Make your own personalized candles
Create your own signature candle with your partner at the Valentine’s Day Candle Making Workshop By DSAR. Explore your creative side and personalize your candle with your friend or special someone.
You can also try the classes at Yummi Candles’ workshop in the Distillery District, or Let’s Make It in Richmond Hill.
11. Have a romantic 3-course dinner at IKEA
Yes, you read that right – on February 14, IKEA stores around Toronto will be hosting their annual Valentine’s Dinner for 2, which includes a three-course meal, Nordic Fruit water, and mocktails all for just $34.99 for two people. The only catch is that you’ll have to pick up your tickets from the in-store restaurant in advance, as they will not be available on the day-of.
12. Sample classic Italian fare at Eataly
If the key to your partner’s heart is through their stomach, head to Eataly Yorkville’s Valentine’s Day Taste Around event, where you’ll get to try chef-curated creations from 10 various stations.
Whether you prefer sweet or savoury, there’s something for you, from strawberry tiramisù to limoncello shrimp. The event occurs on February 9 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., and tickets cost $50.
13. Get pampered with your girl friends for Galantine’s
Treat yourself with complimentary spa services, mimosas, live music, and more at Palais Royale with your gal pals on February 11. The Galantine’s Event runs from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and will also feature a market with over 40 local small businesses to shop at. Entry is free.
14. Hit up a retro arcade bar
Bring out the competitive side with your partner at an arcade bar in Toronto. Tilt Arcade Bar in Parkdale has a variety of retro arcade games and 90s consoles in a fun, divey space. FreePlay is another amazing option where you pay a cover for unlimited play, and you can sip on a craft beer between games.
15. Sip and paint at an RnB-themed Paint Party
Unleash your inner artist at the RnB Paint Party – Valentine’s Sip and Paint Night hosted by Locals Link Up. You’ll get to sip wine, groove to RnB, and learn how to paint a masterpiece as guided by a talented instructor.
The event is on February 16 at 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. at 1112 Dundas Street East. Painting supplies are provided and the wine is free while supplies last! Tickets start at $60.
16. Create a heart-shaped succulent arrangement
For those with a green thumb, check out the Valentine’s Day Succulent Heart Workshop put on by Canadian Succulents.
You’ll get to make y0ur own one-of-a-kind arrangement out of mini succulent plants within a heart-shaped planter for yourself or your loved one. Materials are provided. The event takes place on February 11 from 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., and costs $67 per person.
17. Find Love in Another Galaxy at Offworld Bar
Toronto’s coolest sci-fi themed bar is hosting an otherworldly traffic light-themed Valentine’s party on Saturday, February 10. Mix and mingle all the while great drinks are flowing with tasty food. Guests should wear red if they’re taken, green if single and yellow if they’re unsure their status.
18. Get pampered at one of the city’s best spas
If you or your Valentine are in need of a little TLC, there’s nothing like spending the day at one of Toronto’s best spas to help massage those blues away. From The Spa at the Four Seasons Hotel’s luxury queen and king facials to booking a couple’s massage at the Hammam Spa by Cela, there are plenty of places to refresh and recharge alongside your loved one.
19. Shop for Valentine’s Day gifts with a twist
If your date isn’t into the typical Valentine’s Day flowers, chocolates, and sweets, maybe they’ll like something from this themed market with a dark twist. The My Bloody Valentine Market takes place on Saturday, February 10 and you’ll find everything from skull-shaped jewelry to fetish gear and taxidermy.
20. Build your own charcuterie board
You and your Valentine can create a personalized charcuterie board to take home with a Gusto 54 chef at Twist Gallery. You’ll also be treated with a glass of prosecco upon entry, as well as a bottle of wine to share as you build your board. Tickets per couple cost $170, and the event takes place on February 14 from 6 – 8 p.m.