February is almost here, and in case you need a reason to get out and enjoy Southwest Michigan, Valentine’s Day can help! Not only a holiday for romantics, Valentine’s Day can celebrate love for family, friends, and the beautiful area in which we live. Spend the weekend getting involved in events and participating in activities that are offered February 9th – 14th.
The ever-popular candle making class with Wicked Pop Candles at Iron Shoe Distillery in Niles makes a comeback on Wednesday, February 9th, with a Galentine’s Day theme. Learn about the science of candle making, the process of creating, and make two 8 ounce candles with the scent of your choice. The class begins at 6:30pm, and tickets are $55 per person. A complimentary drink from Iron Shoe Distillery is included. Tickets are limited, so be sure to register online by February 5th.
On Thursday February 10th, the FabLab at Lake Michigan College will have Valentine’s Day Kits for purchase. From 4pm – 8pm, and with a price of only $12 – $15 each, you can choose from wooden ornaments, a wooden heart tower, wooden valentines, or Love stand. The kits include paint and paintbrushes, so all you’ll need is to pre-order your kit online. Proceeds from this event will go towards funding summer camps for kids, and this collaboration space and open-access studio offers great training and fantastic workshops. The FabLab is open to makers of all ages, and is located inside the Hanson Technology Center at LMC’s Benton Harbor Campus.
The Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra will host their annual Dueling Pianos fundraiser at Grand Upton Hall on Friday February 11th. With cocktails at 6:30pm and the show at 7:00pm, tickets start at $35 per person, and promises an evening of fun and musical talent. Turn this into date night by purchasing the buffet dinner (in advance), and participate in the silent auction to support the SMSO.
Friday February 11th also provides a night of history and rock ‘n roll, as the Acorn Theatre in Three Oaks will show ‘Louder Than Love’, “the story of the hallowed halls that started it all”. The showing of this film begins at 8pm, and hosts a talkback with director Tony D’Annunzio afterwards. Tickets are $20 per person, unless you wish to attend the pre-show VIP event that includes cocktails, appetizers, and a meet & greet with the director before the film. VIP tickets are $30.
The fabulous restaurants of Southwest Michigan have stellar every day menus, but lucky for us, holidays mean specials! Friday the 11th and Saturday the 12th, enjoy a special Valentine’s Dinner at Journeyman Distillery in Three Oaks, with ‘an eclectic menu worthy of a well-deserved night out’. The three-course meal will be one to remember! Book your reservations online at journeyman.com.
Tabor Hill Restaurant in Buchanan will offer their Valentine’s Dinner on Saturday February 12th, from 4pm to 9pm, with reservations recommended. The Dinner For Two will include an appetizer, soup or salad, and entree selection, with a complimentary bottle of Sparkling Cherry to-go. The menu is mouthwatering, and you can find all of the information here.
On Monday the 14th, Three Blondes Brewing Company in South Haven will host their Craft Beer Dinner, which includes 5 oz. beer tastings and delectable dishes that pair perfectly with them. This Four-Course menu is exciting, and the event itself is interactive, exploratory, and fun! Tickets are $50 per person, and can be purchased here.
There are so many ways to explore and have fun in our area, and these are just a fraction of what you can find. Celebrate Valentine’s Day Weekend with love for Southwest Michigan, and all we can offer.
By Jocelyne Tuszynski, MOTM contributor
