For under $50, Orange County offers lots of options to spend time with those you love.
Valentine’s Day has been rumored to exist as far back as the 14th century (if not further), with potential roots in Christianity and a so-called “St. Valentine,” who as legend has it would secretly marry couples to spare husbands from having to go to war.
Later, the day became associated with symbols like Cupid, the Roman god of love, and modern iterations find it foremost to be a holiday in celebration of love.
Whether you’re in need of some self care, hosting a “Galentine’s Day” or just want to spend time with your significant other, we have some special ideas to help you spread the love this Valentine’s Day that’ll be kind to your wallet, too.
Fill your Heart with Art
Paint Something Sweet at Pinot's Palette
Sip wine and paint a Valentine’s-themed creation taught by local artists at Pinot’s Palette in Orange County. Research shows that taking time to create art can have a myriad of health benefits including for your mental health.
When: Feb. 14. Check locations for times and other dates. Where: Orange County locations in Aliso Viejo, Brea, Huntington Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita and Tustin
Cost: $29-$45 per person
Contact: pinotspalette.com
Enjoy the Museum at OCMA's Art Happy Hour
On Valentine’s Day, the Orange County Museum of Art is hosting its monthly happy hour and pop-up talk. Guests can enjoy free admission to the museum and a discussion on current exhibitions. Afterwards, specially-created cocktails are available and designed to complement the evening’s featured work.
When: 5-6 p.m. Feb. 14
Where: Orange County Museum of Art, 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa
Cost: Admission is free, cocktail not included
Contact: ocma.art
Get Lost in the Music
Take in Live Music at the Laguna Beach Music Festival
The Laguna Beach Music Festival, presented by the Philharmonic Society of Orange County, is presenting its 23rd annual music festival featuring musician Caroline Shaw at the Laguna Playhouse. Shaw is the 2013 Pulitzer Prize winner in Music and the winner of three Grammy Awards, having previously collaborated with artists including Yo-Yo Ma, Renée Fleming and Dolly Parton. Shaw will be joined by a string quartet and chorus for the evening.
When: 8 p.m. Feb. 14 and 15, 3 p.m. on Feb. 16
Where: Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Cost: Tickets start at $41 per person
Contact: philharmonicsociety.org
Salsa, Swing and Seduce Your Way to Romance At Atomic Ballroom
Atomic Ballroom in Irvine offers group and private ballroom and other style dance classes for people of all levels and abilities. On Valentine’s Day, couples can enjoy two dances for the price of one (beginning salsa and swing), followed by an after-class social dance. The day after, the ballroom is hosting a Galentine's Day seduction workshop with Lola Demure for those looking to “unleash your inner goddess.” Atomic Ballroom Studio is the winner of multiple awards including the 2012 Los Angeles Times Readers’ Choice Awards – Best Dance Club in Orange County, and Best Dance Studio on the Orange County Hot List in 2013 and 2014.
When: 7:45 p.m. Feb. 14, for the couples only Valentines' Dance Date. Noon Feb. 15, for the Galentine’s: Empowered Seduction Workshop
Where: Atomic Ballroom, 17961 Sky Park Circle, Suite C, Irvine
Cost: $50 per couple on Feb. 14, $50 per person at the door on Feb. 15
Contact: atomicballroom.com
Enjoy Drinks and a Meal
Go Wine Tasting in Laguna Beach
Laguna Canyon Winery offers self-paced wine tasting, during which tasters may try between eight to 12 wines from a selection of reds, whites and rosés. Tasters can also enjoy live concerts on the venue’s 160-inch video screen while they sip. On weekdays, including Valentine’s Day, no reservation is required.
When: One-hour self-paced sessions available from noon to 5:30 p.m. Feb. 14
Where: Laguna Canyon Winery, 2133 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Cost: $36 per person
Contact: lagunacanyonwinery.com
Just Thai It
Lots of restaurants serve special meals on Valentine's Day. Often, they are expensive. At Thai Fix, the prices aren't outrageous and they'll serve you heart-shaped rice along with curry and other dishes, garnished with a fresh flower.
When: 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Feb. 14
Where: Ladera Ranch and Huntington Beach
Cost: $13.95 to $25 per entree
Contact: thaifixrestaurant.com
End Your Day With a Comforting Classic
Mountain Mike’s Pizza is serving special, customizable heart-shaped pizzas and heart-shaped cherry pie dessert pizzas all month long. Enjoy a whole-hearted meal for two for under $50.
When: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday-Saturday
Where: Orange County locations include Brea, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, Lake Forest and Rancho Santa Margarita
Cost: Large heart pepperoni pizza: $27.99, price varies for additional toppings; dessert pizza: $5.99
Contact: mountainmikespizza.com
Take in Orange County's Cultural Scene
Stroll Through the Mission
Taking a stroll through the lovely and historic Mission San Juan Capistrano is another great option for celebrating Valentine’s Day this year. Admission includes audio tours, the “En Plein Air” art exhibit, “Father Bill Digital” exhibit featuring photographs and documentation taken of the site, the “Legacy of Saint Sera,” the Native American Museum and Interpretive Room and the South Wing Padres’ Living Quarters, which shows a day in the life of the padres living at the mission during the 18th century.
Withing walking distance is the historical Los Rios Street and River Street Marketplace with lots of shops and dining options.
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 14. Check the Mission's website for other dates and times.
Where: Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano
Cost: $9-$18 general admission
Contact: missionsjc.com
Shop For Vintage Treasures on the OC Fairgrounds
The OC Fair and Event Center is hosting its Redo Vintage and Maker’s Market on Feb. 14 and 15. Shoppers will find specially-curated vintage and handmade items from home decor to clothing and accessories. The event will be accompanied by live music and a variety of food and beverage options.
When: 2-7 p.m. Feb. 14
Where: Orange County Fairgrounds, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. In the Anaheim Building, Los Alamitos Building, OC Fair & Event Center and OC Promenade.
Cost: General admission varies: Friday, Feb. 14, early bird 2-5 p.m. $20, 5-7 p.m. $15; Saturday, Feb. 15, 8-10 a.m. $12 and 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. $10. Parking is $12.
Contact: ocfair.com
10. Find a Valentine by Speed Dating
Looking for love and tired of dating apps? British speed dating organization My Cheeky Date is hosting a “Be My Valentine Bash” speed-dating event on Valentine’s Day at the Floe Lounge in the Irvine Marriott Hotel. My Cheeky Date gives daters the opportunity to connect in person with other singles and also offers additional matchmaking services.
When: 7 p.m. Feb. 14
Where: Irvine Marriott, 18000 Von Karman Ave., Irvine
Cost: $39.95 per person ages 25-39
Contact: mycheekydate.com
Laugh It Off in Fullerton
The Boo’d Up or Lonely Valentine’s Day Comedy Show at Chako's Social in Fullerton will showcase comedians including Madeleine Lemay, Chelsea from Rialto, Darren Carter and more with dinner and drinks available in downtown Fullerton. Ticket includes a raffle ticket.
When: 7 p.m. Feb. 14
Where: Chako’s Social, 101 South Harbor Blvd., Fullerton
Cost: $10 per person
Contact: chakossocial.com
Cuddle Up With a Classic Movie on the Big Screen
The Lido Theater in Newport Beach will be screening James Cameron’s classic romantic film “Titanic,” the 1997 Academy Award winner for Best Film starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet on Valentine's Day. The film is part of the theater’s past Academy Award winners showcase which culminates on March 2.
When: 7 p.m. Feb. 14
Where: The Lido Theater, 3459 Via Lido, Newport Beach
Cost: $12.50 per ticket
Contact: thelidotheater.com
Share Your Love with Furry Friends
Give love to furry friends who need it most! Volunteer at your local animal shelter. Volunteer activities can range from pet care to administration, marketing and more. There are locations throughout Orange County, plus plenty of opportunities to adopt.
When: Check the operating times at your local animal shelter.
Where: Animal shelters in or near Orange County can be found in: Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Long Beach, Newport Beach, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, Seal Beach, Tustin and Westminster
Contact: ocanimalallies.org
Hike or Bike through Orange County's Parks
A simple stroll or bike ride through nature can be a great way to connect with your loved ones. Many of Orange County's regional parks are connected by a regional trail system, maintained by OC Parks. Find a park and trail near you at: ocparks.com/parks-trails/regional-trails
