It’s that time of the year again when we’re socially obligated to show our affection for the people – and places – we love! So, whether you’re frantically rushing to find that perfect last-minute gift, you’re feeling like a little personal affection is in order, or you’re planning a romantic weekend, we’ve got a quick list of great ways to show your love for Edmonton’s unique heritage – and keep you out of the doghouse – this Valentine’s Day!
- Catch a movie at the historic Metro Cinema in Garneau or the Princess Theatre on Whyte Ave. With nightly screenings of classics and new releases, you can enjoy the nostalgia and
romance of these restored icons of Edmonton’s movie scene. Great for a Valentine’s Day date night, or just a treat for yourself.
- Who doesn’t love old photos? The City of Edmonton Archives has a vast collection from which you can order archival quality prints. From images featuring old streetscapes and buildings, to everyday scenes from Edmonton’s past, any history-lover in your life would be thrilled to hang a print on the wall. If you’re in a pinch, head down to Vivid Print and pick up a unique Edmonton-inspired archival print already framed for that special someone. For a more creative option, consider gifting an illustration of local historic landmarks by Jeffrey Dekker or Jason Blower. (photo credit: Jason Blower)
- Take a romantic getaway – or personal vaca – at the historic Hotel MacDonald. Known affectionately as Edmonton’s castle, dinner and a suite at the Mac is the perfect way to spend some quality time, and do so surrounded by all the charm, grandeur and history this 103 year old hotel has to offer. (photo credit: Fairmont Hotel MacDonald)
- FACT: Museums are a great first date venue. With more than a dozen museums, galleries and archives in town, the options are plenty to make some memories learning about the history of the Edmonton. Ideal for history buffs and those on a budget. Check out some of the great museums here. (photo credit: Alberta Aviation Museum)
- A casual V-Day dinner more your thing? Consider heading to Sugarbowl, Original Joe’s on 125th, or Revel Bistro – all of which happen to be located in neat historic buildings with plenty of old time character and ambiance to set the mood. While dinner is good, brunch is better. At Little Brick Café, you can immerse yourself in the history of one of Edmonton’s oldest industries at one Edmonton’s best brunch spots. (photo credit: Little Brick)
- Looking for a unique experience to share with your significant other? Fort Edmonton Park has several ways to spend Valentine’s Day together; from a stay at the Selkirk, to a show at the Capitol Theatre, to wagon rides through the park, to brunch and a stroll, or all of the above! Make it a weekend. (photo credit: Fort Edmonton Park)
- For those altruistic lovebirds not into the commercial Valentine’s Day game, what better way to show your love for #yegheritage than by making a donation to the Edmonton Heritage Council in that special someone’s name? Now that’s a public display of affection we can fully support…
Happy Valentine’s Day. Spread the love for Edmonton’s heritage.