EAT’s Guide to Valentine’s Day 2015

Valentine’s Day has developed polarizing opinions. While one friend might call it “decadent” and refuse to participate, another might point out it’s a day fabricated to make money. Plus, if it’s not a statuary holiday, what’s the point?

As for me? I love (no pun intended) February 14th. With V-Day falling on a weekend this year, it seems there’s no real excuse to skip celebrating. And so, here are some tips for celebrating and making the most February 14th this year. My tips are merely guidelines. Love, after all, demands some spontaneity. Got other plans? Share them with us on Twitter: @EatMagazine!

Do hand out Valentines

I’ll never forget those mini cards I’d exchange in elementary school. Social courtesy meant everyone in the class had to be on the receiving list, but best friends and crushes always got a little something extra. Let’s bring back the Valentine for all — neighbours, co-workers, and family. If handing out Valentines takes the form of an edible treat, here are my picks:

Bon Macaron

You’re living under a rock if you haven’t discovered that macarons are the new cupcake. With flavours like sour cherry and goat cheese and fig, say ‘I love you’ with class.

Yonni’s Doughnuts

Who needs a dozen red roses when doughnuts are on the menu? February’s feature treat is a chocolate cake doughnut with a lemon raspberry glaze and heart sprinkles.

Don’t forget the small details

Based on my past dates, here are the three things you definitely don’t want to forgot on the big night:

• Your wallet. Okay, you could technically forget the wallet, but showing up without payment is a real mood killer.
• Your manners. Put away the iPhone for a night. Does this meal really need to be photographed?
• Your appetite. Eat, overindulge, splurge on dessert.

Do have fun

The reasons I enjoy Valentine’s Day aren’t the mushy cards and candy hearts. To me, a day dedicated to romance means you get to step outside your comfort zone. Of course, expressing feelings boldly doesn’t come naturally for most, so Victoria businesses are making it easy for us.

Hotel Zed’s offering 3-hour hotel room packages February 12 and 13 for the infamous ‘Nooner.’ Fifty dollars gets you free reign of a hotel room from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Purdy’s Chocolate included. Hotel Zed is also offering overnight specials for those who require more than a quickie.

If the bedroom seems too forward, the Royal BC Museum hosts Night Shift: Wild Romance. A cash bar and hors d’oeuvres from Truffles Catering make this the ideal date for those with an appetite for the unexpected.

“You don’t have to be in love to come and explore the naughty-side of nature. This Valentine’s Day join us for an evening of performances, presentations and adult-only activities looking at the wilder side of animal reproduction, mating and courtship.”

Don’t leave plans to the last minute

Victoria nabbed “Most Romantic City” in 2013 and 2014, so don’t expect to just waltz into any restaurant on February 14. You need a reservation. (Psst, we’ve compiled a list of Valentine’s menus here)

If you’d rather skip dinner and head straight for dessert (wink wink), the Fairmont’s offering a Death by Chocolate buffet. February 13 and 14, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

However you decide to spend Valentine’s Day, just remember the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach.