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Love is in the air, Cincinnati. As Valentine’s Day approaches and Cupid’s arrows go flying, there are tons of lovey events buzzing around town for you and your sweetie (or your group of Galentine’s besties). From a romantic dinner cruise down the Ohio River to a Valentine’s Day-themed murder mystery dinner, plus unhinged speed dating, here are 10 Greater Cincinnati events to help make your Valentine’s Day as hot and cool as you.
Date Cincy, founded in the summer of 2023, maintains the goal of “helping Cincy singles meet their person, IN PERSON.” The organization is the brainchild of Paige Braley and Logan Moore, who, alongside a group of volunteers, make Date Cincy’s twice-monthly events of varying themes and sizes happen. Photo: Kelly Sikkema, UnsplashValentine’s Day Perfume Workshop with The Lavender Sachet at Lemons & Limes Boutique
When: Feb. 14 from 6-7:45 p.m.
Where: Lemons and Limes Boutique, Kenwood
What: Spending Valentine’s Day with your bestie? Head to Lemons and Limes Boutique to make your new favorite perfume composed of scents like orange blossom or jasmine while you drink wine and celebrate each other’s company.
Who: Lemons and Limes Boutique and The Lavender Sachet
Why: I smell love in the air. Photo: Camille Paralisan, UnsplashDouble Down at Cancun and Western Bowl
$3.95-$4.75 per game; shoe rental extra
It’s a two-for-one at Cancun Restaurante & Cantina and Western Bowl Strike & Spare — the establishments are connected by a doorway, making it easy to go from classic strip-mall tacos and tequila to classic bowling and beer. Since 1958, the glowing Western Bowl sign has been beckoning amateurs and pros alike to play on its 68 automatic lanes. With a Big Lebowski-esque atmosphere, the rates are reasonable (less than $5 a game), the snacks are cheap and the bar is fully stocked. Grab a pitcher of beer for $9 and get ready to bowl. 6383 Glenway Ave., Western Hills.
Photo: Hailey Bollinger Photo: Hailey BollingerNYE Cruises at BB Riverboats
Times vary
For the adults, take a cruise along the Ohio River as the new year begins, with features such as a three-entree buffet, champagne, late-night snacks and party favors.
For a kid-friendly New Year’s Eve activity, BB Riverboats is also hosting a Kids Cruise, with a midday countdown at noon. The cruise will include a DJ, a lunch buffet and party favors for the kids to enjoy. 101 Riverboat Row, Newport, bbriverboats.com. Photo: Facebook.com/bbriverboats.comValentine’s Day Tie-Dye Party
When: Feb. 14 from 4-8 p.m.
Where: Funky Sunshine, Anderson Township
What: Creating fun shirts with your significant other (or Galentine!) will surely be a memorable Valentine’s Day date. No tie-dye creation ever turns out exactly the same, so create a design as unique as your relationship.
Who: Funky Sunshine
Why: You’ll be tied together with matching shirts that are one of a kind. Photo: Katie GriffithBricks & Beer: Cincinnati Music Hall History and Hops
5 p.m. July 28
Cincinnati Music Hall is partnering with Rhinegeist Brewery as they host an adventure that uncovers interesting parts of Cincinnati’s history in the late 19th century. Guests will explore the interesting connection between the Cincinnati beer industry and the development of Music Hall. Tour parts of the building while pleasing your palette with delicious selections from Rhinegeist. Tickets are $40.
5 p.m. July 28. Cincinnati Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine, visitcincy.com. Photo: Aidan MahoneyFamily Valentine’s Day at The Post
When: Feb. 14 from 6-8 p.m.
Where: The Post – Taphouse and Bottle Shop, Fort Thomas
What: Valentine’s is a day of love, so what better way to spend it than with the whole family? The Post is hosting a night of free Singo and cookie decorating for all Valentines.
Who: The Post
Why: Because time is best spent surrounded by family. Photo: facebook.com/ThePostFTValentine’s Day Murder Mystery Dinner
When: Feb. 14 from 6:30-9 p.m.
Where: Northwood Cider Co., Norwood
What: This event is a fun twist on the “normal” light-hearted Valentine’s evening. Anyone 21+ is welcome to join your partner in solving this murder mystery at Northwood Cider Co. There will be dinner and drinks as everyone tries to uncover the murderer.
Who: Northwood Cider Co.
Why: The suspense for Valentine’s Day is killing me — just like the victim at Northwood Cider Co. Photo: Brian CrossPhoto: Casey RobertsUnhinged Speed Dating
When: Feb. 14 from 7-9 p.m.
Where: Commonwealth Sanctuary, Dayton
What: Comics Hilary Boston and June Dempsey will take you through an “unhinged” evening of speed dating at this Commonwealth Sanctuary event. Anyone between 21 and 45 years of age are invited to this unique take on speed dating.
Who: Commonwealth Sanctuary
Why: Shared laughter is one of the best connections two people could have — why not start your relationship that way? Photo: cottonbro studio/PexelsSamuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom
1727 Logan St., Over-the-Rhine
There’s no need to truck over to Boston for fresh Sam Adams. This taproom across from the Samuel Adams Cincinnati Brewery features a massive indoor and outdoor space, with an array of unique beers brewed both on-site and across the street. The outdoor patio has heaters to keep you nice and toasty and a fire pit to gather around while sipping something cold. Photo: facebook.com/Samuel Adams Cincinnati TaproomGreat Parks Maple in the Moonlight
When: Feb. 14 from 7-9 p.m.
Where: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, Colerain Township
What: After a hike through the trails, you and your sweetheart can learn about the process of making maple syrup and go home with a maple syrup creation of your own.
Who: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve
Why: Spend a night under the stars for a naturally romantic Valentine’s Day. Photo: facebook.com/CincyNature