By Lindsay Fishman /
[dropcap]I[/dropcap]t’s Valentine’s Day and your significant other may have forgotten to make reservations at the most expensive restaurant in town. Now what? The world is going up in flames, and you’re a nervous wreck since the day is almost ruined. Don’t freak out. Here are some no-pressure, no-reservations-necessary ideas on what to do with your special someone (or besties) on Valentine’s Day.
- “Where We Belong” Valentine’s Day Brunch in Maitland: VIP tables are available and this event offers the convenience of arriving whenever you can get there, knowing your table is reserved.
There will be a performance from the classical The Cook Trio, a showing of the film An Officer and a Gentleman, a brunch buffet with a carving station, and beverages upon beverages (including a complimentary mimosa). This is definitely the place to be if you’re in the mood for some classical music and a romance movie with your love. This is at the Enzian Theater on South Orlando Avenue.
- Take a stroll on Park Ave. in Winter Park for a nice evening to set the mood of the day. Park Ave. is a long strip right by the Winter Park Sunrail station where you can go grab a coffee at a French bistro, grab some vintage candy at a shop called Rocket Fizz, and maybe even grab some authentic Italian food at Pannullo’s (which is my personal favorite). Park Ave. is full of shops and places to explore, so what are you waiting for? Take adventure by the hand and go experience the liveliness of Winter Park.
- A progressive dinner is a really fun idea to do as well, and based off personal experience, I would do it again. A progressive dinner is a meal where each course is enjoyed at a separate restaurant. For example, last year on Valentine’s Day, my best friend and I dined at a Greek restaurant for appetizers, enjoyed some Vietnamese noodles at another restaurant, and enjoyed some Jeremiah’s to top the night off. Though this is not the most inexpensive choices, it is quite fun. I highly recommend it.
- For the traditionalists, you can never go wrong with the classic dinner and a movie. For those that are Marvel fans, Deadpool makes its way into theaters Friday, 12 February just in time for a chill Valentine’s Day with your friends. If you’re not interested in that, Zoolander 2 and How to be Single will also be coming out same day as Deadpool. If those don’t catch your eye, some things that should still be in theaters at that time are the following: The Boy, Ride Along 2, The 5th Wave, and Sisters.
- If you have a heart for art, Mount Dora is hosting an art stroll on 13 February from 6-8 p.m. This event is free and is in downtown. According to Mount Dora’s art page, it features community artists showing their creations. This is a great way to appreciate art with your date and not have to spend a penny.
- A home-made meal may be just what you and your bae need this season. A romantic night-in may be one of the most inexpensive, yet intimate plans you could possibly make. Look up a recipe together. Dimmed lights and lit candles. Who knows, maybe some jazz music could be playing in the background for you old coot’s at heart. You don’t have to be around the hustle bustle of other people. It’ll be just you two featuring some peace and quiet away from our crazy college lifestyles.
No matter what you choose to do, you do not have to spend an entire paycheck on it. At the end of the day, it is about what is going to be the most fun for the both of you (or your group of friends) and what will have you looking back in a couple of years thinking, “Hey, what a great Valentine’s Day.” Thank you, Cupid!