The holiday of love — Valentine’s Day — has arrived and you can celebrate with several events in the Iowa City area! Whether looking for date night ideas, an outing with friends, or a family-friendly celebration, check out this listing to see what’s happening in Iowa City to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day Events in the Iowa City Area
For Families: Valentine’s Day Events in the Iowa City Area
What: North Liberty Lights
Where: Liberty Centre Pond
When: Now – February
While not technically a Valentine’s Day event, this still seems pretty romantic to us! Winter days can be dark, but North Liberty will be a bit brighter through the end of February. Walk this illuminated winter display around Liberty Centre Pond as part of the annual Beat the Bitter Festival.
What: Family Storytime: Valentine’s Day
Where: Iowa City Public Library
When: Sat. Feb. 12, 2022, 10:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Enjoy a storytime about friends, family, love, and hugs, including a special craft after storytime with a short movie!
What: Family Night: Share the Love
Where: Iowa City Public Library
When: Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Come create homemade valentines for all of the residents of a local senior living community. The library will have all of the creative supplies needed and a bit of information about the residents to help you make a custom valentine from the heart that will be sure to make someone’s Valentine’s Day extra special this year!
What: Valentine’s Day at the Play Station
Where: Play Station (Cedar Rapids)
When: Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022, 1-5 p.m.
The Play Station Valentine’s Celebration Party will include cookie decorating, arts/crafts,and balloon twisting!
For Friends: Galentine’s Day Events in the Iowa City Area
What: Galentine’s Party + Workshop
Where: Bella Sala Event Center
When: Thursday, Feb. 10, 2022, at 6 p.m.
Grab your girlfriends and celebrate! This will be an event you don’t want to miss at Bella Sala with a full cocktail hour + floral design instruction. You can just come for the party with your gals or join in on the floral instruction. Both ticket options are available.
What: Galentine’s Event: Little Lights on the Lane
Where: Little Lights on the Lane
When: Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Enjoy a cozy, fun-themed outing. Admission includes a charcuterie box to snack on and a photo display. Browse and buy your favorite items at several pop-up shops. Cocktails will be available, plus a create your own floral arrangement for extra.
What: Galentine’s Day
Where: Fireside Winery
When: Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022, 12 p.m.
What: Galentine’s Day at Big Grove
Where: Big Grove Iowa City
When: Sunday, Feb. 13, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
For Couples: Valentine’s Day Events in the Iowa City Area
What: Latin Lovers: A Spanish Valentine’s Dinner at Rapid Creek Cidery
Where: Rapid Creek Cidery
When: Sat. Feb. 12, 2022, 5-9 p.m.
A pre-set three-course Valentine’s Dinner is available only on Saturday for dine-in or take-home.
What: Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Dinner
Where: Big Grove Iowa City Tap Room
When: Monday, Feb. 14, 2022, 6 – 9 p.m.
Throughout this five-course meal, prepared by award-winning chefs, enjoy a romantic evening for your table of 2 or 4 guests in a romantic bistro environment. Seating is limited.
What: Valentine’s Day Four Courses + Wine or Cocktail Pairing
Where: Marquee Pizzeria
When: Monday, Feb. 14
Romance and pizza go together right? This menu features options for an appetizer, salad, unique pizza combination, and dessert. Call for reservations.
We hope this guide is helpful as you make your Valentine’s Day plans. If you’re looking for more Valentine’s Day fun, be sure to listen to this V-Day playlist and check out more Iowa City date night ideas.