Valentine’s Day, which happens to coincide with Arizona’s anniversary, is often thought of as a time to show your appreciation to that special someone in your life. We often associate this date with fancy dinners, elaborate gifts and expensive getaways, but romance doesn’t have to break the bank. From local markets to family-friendly events, here are seven ways to leave both your significant other and your wallet feeling loved and valued.
Family Fun Valentine’s Day Festival
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Saturday, February 8
Bring all your loved ones to this Valentine’s Day market featuring entertainment for adults and kids alike. Hosted inside the Arizona Boardwalk, the event will include numerous food and shopping vendors, while keeping smaller children busy with activities such as Valentine’s Day craft-making, coloring contests and bounce houses. While admission is free, raffle tickets can be purchased for chances to win prizes.
Pickers Playground – Cupid Mart at Arizona Center
Noon-6 p.m.
Sunday, February 9
Hosted the weekend before V-Day in Downtown Phoenix, this themed vintage market is great for the fashion-forward couple. Enjoy a soundtrack by a live, local DJ as you browse goodies from nearly two dozen local vendors.
Scottsdale Sparkle Valentine’s Day Market
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Sunday, Feb. 9
If you’re looking for an early Valentine’s celebration, this V-Day market in Scottsdale provides the perfect daytime date. Enjoy a day of browsing and shopping for arts, crafts and home improvement gifts while listening to a live DJ set. Feel free to bring the whole family – kids can enjoy fun activities like face painting and temporary glitter tattoos.
Valentine’s Guest Party at Fred Astaire Dance Studios
7 p.m.
Wednesday, February 12
Nothing says romance like dancing, and this studio – named after iconic ballroom dancer Fred Astaire – is hosting an event for singles and couples alike. The 90-minute event features champagne, snacks and dance workshops for sensual styles like tango and salsa.
Valentine’s Day Movie @ Patriots Park in Cityscape
7:30 p.m.
Friday, February 14
If you or your partner are a sucker for a classic romcom, grab a big blanket and some snacks and snuggle up in the heart of Downtown Phoenix on the evening of Valentine’s Day to watch the iconic 2000s film, The Proposal.
The Chocolate Affaire
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday, February 15 & Sunday, February 16
The heart-shaped box filled with chocolate is an iconic marker of Valentine’s Day, so spending V-Day weekend enjoying all things chocolate is a no-brainer. This annual event will be returning to the Glendale Civic Center and will feature dozens of chocolate dishes to try from both local and national companies, as well as food, snacks, and other sweet treats.
