Love is in the air, Washingtonians!
Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day alone, with friends, or with a significant other, there are endless ways to celebrate the sweetest day of the year.
Here are 12 wonderful ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in D.C.!
Dine out at one of D.C.’s most romantic restaurants
Whether you’re going on a first date or cuddling up with your longtime love, you can’t go wrong by visiting one of D.C.’s most romantic restaurants!
With a mix of spectacular cocktails, mouthwatering indulgences, and beautiful ambiance, each provides all you could want for a date night.
Sneak a peek at some of the spots below, then check out the full list of restaurants here!
Illuminated by thousands of twinkling candles, this series of magical Candlelight concerts makes for the perfect romantic evening of music and light at a spectacular venue, such as St. Francis Hall.
Talented musicians swoon audiences with stunning renditions of songs by the likes of Beyoncé and Taylor Swift, as well as composers including Vivaldi and Tchaikovsky.
You can even enjoy smooth tributes to legends of R&B and Neo soul, including Usher, Bruno Mars, and more.
Want to experience a different kind of romantic meal that will be the most unique Valentine’s Day experience your significant other may ever have?!
Then Dining In The Dark may be the perfect experience for you and your significant other to enjoy the moment to the fullest.
There are only a few Dining In The Dark events happening around Valentine’s Day, so book quickly, otherwise they may fill up!
Hit the ice at one of these magnificent skating rinks
The ultimate romantic winter pastime: ice skating! Embracing the cold and holding hands as you glide along the ice and under twinkling lights and the night sky?
Yes, please! See some of our favorite ice rinks below, then check out the full list here!
- National Gallery and Sculpture Garden Rink
- Washington Harbour Ice Rink
- The Wharf Ice Rink
Go for a romantic stroll through CityCenterDC
CityCenterDC is known for going all out with its decorations for each season and major holiday, and Valentine’s Day is no different.
Adorned with twinkling lights, pink and red paper lanterns, and outdoor musicians, you’ll be surrounded by romance.
Even better, it’s lined by restaurants—including Fig & Olive and Del Frisco’s—with holiday specials and cocktails.
And if you’re looking for a gift, you can grab them something sweet from Dolcezza!
The cold February weather just might work in your favor!
What better excuse could you possibly need to cozy up close to your date than indulging in some hot chocolate together?
Some of our favorite hot chocolate spots are below, and you can find the full list here!
- L.A. Burdick
- Colada Shop
- Sticky Fingers Diner
Make one-of-a-kind jewelry at a couple’s ring-making class
Whether you’re celebrating a relationship milestone or just want to try a new DIY class, these ring-making classes in Alexandria will surely make for a special date night.
Attendees will texture, bend, hammer, and solder rings to make unique, memorable pieces of jewelry during these hands-on classes at Wear Ever Jewelry.
Create a custom fragrance at Olfactory NYC in Georgetown
Olfactory NYC invites Washingtonians to create their very own custom fragrance! Celebrate your love by crafting a signature scent, freshly bottled right in front of you. You’ll have the chance to explore and mix various scents, resulting in a personalized fragrance you can take home. It’s a wonderful way to make lasting memories together! Discover more details here.
Spend the afternoon strolling through one of the many great free museums around the District
If you’re on a budget but still want to plana romantic evening, there are around 20 incredible free-admission museums around the District that are well worth the visit if you haven’t gone already!
Sometimes learning something new together can be a romantic plan that you’ll both enjoy.
There is a museum for all sorts of interests, whether it be art, plants, or history; there is something for everyone!
- 17 unique Smithsonian Institute Museums
- National Gallery of Art
- National Archives Museum
- Library of Congress exhibits
- United States Botanic Garden
- & More!
Plan an unplugged adventure by exploring some of the great parks and green spaces around D.C.
Nature-themed dates can be very fun and relaxing, especially if both of you work and live in the city. D.C. is surrounded by beautiful green spots like Rock Creek Park, the National Arboretum, and the stunning Hillwood Gardens.
These are perfect for going on a romantic hike, wandering around, and soaking up the fresh air.
Join this custom candlemaking workshop and enjoy the complimentary chocolate & champagne
Couples planning to opt for a more memorable experience than just a simple dinner this Valentine’s Day should consider this candlemaking workshop!
Tickets to this experience cost of $75 per person, but the experience includes:
- A custom-scented 12-oz candle that you’ll pour yourself.
- A personalized label for your candle, which you’ll design.
- Chocolate truffles + champagne to enjoy throughout the experience.
The workshop is being hosted by District Candle Lab, which has locations at both Union Market and in the Mosaic District.