Let’s face it, making plans these days is difficult. For one, most of the social things we love to do outside of the home are either completely closed or there are tight COVID restrictions that make for uncomfortable outings. On top of this, we have ever changing state phases and regulations that make it difficult to know what our entertainment options are at any given time.
Many people are finding themselves at a crossroads. On one end of the spectrum we crave getting out of isolation and having a semi-normal outing. On the other end, it’s often too much work to make plans and get out (you know, the mask, the limited options, the limited seating, the distancing etc). Then if you add children in that mix, whew… getting out needs to really be worth it if we are packing the circus along.
Nonetheless, we need things to look forward to. Living the same day over and over during the COVID pandemic makes for a cranky society. We need to plan things to do, otherwise we are left lonely, frustrated and undernourished. Take a look at the events below and see if one can quench your thirst when making plans this Valentines day. Good luck!
10 COVID Friendly Valentine’s Day Events- Vancouver, WA/Portland, OR
Love Struck! Drive-In Valentines Movie Experience
When: Feb 12th-14th
Classic drive in? Dinner and dessert? A bottle of wine? Sold! Each night two different romantic movies will be showing, just pick a night and make sure to buy tickets beforehand! This drive-in experience will be taking place at Washington Square Mall.
Portland Night Market – Celebrating love
When: Feb 6th-8th
Looking to pick up something special for Valentine’s Day? Try the Portland night market! The market has COVID regulations in place to ensure safety for patrons and they are keeping open circulation in the building for continual airflow. Layer up in some warm clothing, grab some delicious dinner from the food carts and make a night of shopping local this holiday.
Cupid’s 12 Roses of Valentine’s Day Run Challenge 2021
When: Feb. 14th
Love running? Consider participating in a 12 mile virtual run with your sweetheart. If you are a go-getter, you can add on an additional mile to complete the 13.1 half marathon. Packets of gear have already started shipping! Sign up today to participate.
Valentine’s Day Dinner by Plum Hill Vineyards
When: Feb. 14th
If you really want the Valentine’s Day feel, head on down to Plum Hill Vineyards (50 mins from Vancouver, WA). Spend the evening sipping wine while enjoying a four course meal catered by Bella Donna. This limited event will take place in the on-site heated barn, but make sure to dress warm just in case. Guests must purchase tickets beforehand to ensure a reservation.
Virtual Wine Tasting
When: Varying dates
Want something a little more low key? Try virtual wine tasting. While nothing compares to the dimmed tasting room ambiance and old vineyard feel, virtual wine tasting is still something out of the norm that would definitely warrant some fun. This Valentine’s Day, grab some bottles of delicious wine and plan a unique night in with your sweetheart. Check out the link to view the best virtual tastings of 2021.
LOVE THE TREES! Volunteer Planting at Sandy River Delta
When: Feb 14th
This is an all-ages volunteer event put on by the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership. If you love the outdoors and have a green thumb to lend, consider spending some time loving on Mother Nature this Valentine’s Day by volunteering. Registration is required.
Fiesta Latina -DJ Trambo Virtual Event
When: Feb 13th
If Latino music is your thing, this one is for you. This virtual zoom party consists of 4.5 hours of live music that ticket holders can stream from their home TV. Plan a night of dancing or whip up some latin food and let DJ Trambo provide the entertainment. Rock Da House will also will donate 10% of all proceeds to support Mental Health across Canada. Good event, good cause.
Aphrodisiac VDay Cooking Class (ONLINE)
When: Multiple dates
You read that right. Spice up your night by engaging in a virtual cooking class this Valentine’s Day. This interactive class sets couples up to learn about the history of aphrodisiacs, how food affects the libido and how to create a sensual meal.
Famous Museum Tours- 12 Free Virtual Tours
Any date
History buff? Love art? You can experience it all from the comfort of your home. In 2020 museums from all over the world participated in providing virtual tours for guests to enjoy for free. This Valentine’s Day, cozy up with your sweetheart and visit the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, Musée d’Orsay in Paris or Guggenheim in New York (just to name a few)!
Alcohol Inks Valentine Special
When: Feb 14th
This in-person event is hosted by Vancouver Art Space and is suited for ages 15+. Advanced and budding artists alike will enjoy making colorful tiles using the resist technique. Tickets should be purchased in advance.
Enjoy!
-Written by Emily De La Torre, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Vancouver, WA
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