Grill Mark’s Valentine’s Day ‘Let’s Get Freaky’ milkshake made with strawberry cheesecake milkshake and topped with a slice of cheesecake and a chocolate covered strawberry.
Valentine’s Day is no longer a holiday celebrated by couples only. In fact, the holiday has become a favorite for everyone, often times expanding to include Galentine’s Day (a celebration for friends), or Single Awareness Day (made popular by an iconic “Parks and Recreation” episode). As a result, date night options aren’t the only promotions and deals going on to attract V-Day celebrators. Now, you can stop by Grill Marks for a special cheesecake milkshake or Wildflower boutique for celebratory discounts. Or, you could stop by FIT Columbia for a one-of-a-kind couples acro class, where owner Angie Sellers says participants can, “expect to accomplish the unexpected, to laugh, to play games and step outside of the ordinary.” For a full list of events and promotions everyone can get involved with, keep reading.
If all you really want to do is eat, go to these restaurants:
Grill Marks in the Vista
For Valentine’s Day, Grill Marks is offering a special deal including two Grill Marks burgers, a three-way, and milkshake to share– all for only $25. If you’re feeling fancy, you also have the option to upgrade your milkshake to their V-Day FreakShake. Although this special is only available on Wednesday, the Freakshake is around until the 18th.
Urban Cookhouse
Known for its locally-sourced, fresh food options, Urban Cookhouse is adding something sweet to their menu. From 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, you can decorate your very own custom cookie for yourself or that special someone. Who doesn’t want a cookie made with love?
The Food Academy
If Valentine’s Day is your favorite holiday, or you’re just looking for an excuse to get a drink everyday this week, The Food Academy has you covered. Stop by on Monday for couple’s wine and dine, Tuesday for couple’s cooking class, Wednesday for valentine date night, Thursday for ‘single’s mingle’ event, Friday for date night dinner-for-two or Saturday for a cocktail tasting. Prices vary depending on event.
Kaminsky’s
Opting to stay in on Wednesday instead? Kaminsky’s has the perfect dessert, so make sure you pick it up before starting your movie marathon. The chocolate-covered strawberry small-plated dessert consists of a brownie bottom, a strawberry mouse middle and chocolate mouse top. The dish is the perfect treat for yourself or you and your partner, and costs $7.
If you’re more into #treatingyourself, stop by these shops:
Wildflower Boutique
Sweet-tooths beware, Wildflower Boutique’s sale will keep you coming back for more. On Wednesday, all shoppers will have the opportunity to choose a “conversation heart” from a jar. Here’s the V-Day spin though– all hearts will have a discount on them, ranging from 15 to 50 percent. So, bring your Galentines and buy some new outfits for a night on the town.
Vestique
If you need a necklace or bracelet to finalize your Valentine’s Day look, you’re in luck. Vestique is hosting a “Complete Her Look” sale event where customers who buy a clothing item will receive 25 percent off accessories. While you’re at it, participate in their Share the Love promotion on Instagram. All you have to do is take a picture while wearing a Vestique item with your Valentine, or Galentine, and tag @vestiquecolumbia for a 20 percent off coupon code. This promotion ends Thursday, and the coupon is valid until February 28th.
Bohemian
In celebration of Galentine’s Day and the store’s 8th birthday in Five Points, Bohemian is having a party on Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. featuring the work of artist Anne Herlong. There will be food, drinks and, of course, plenty of opportunity to shop.
If you’re looking to get your heart rate up before your celebration, book one of these classes:
Sweat’s Valentine’s Day Ride
Jamie Scott Fitness is known for their tough spin classes, that also doubles as dance parties on bikes. Dance into this holiday with Sweat’s V-Day ride on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. with instructor Allen Derrick. Grab your partner, or a group of friends and get ready for a spin party. For first time riders, the class is free. The drop-in fee is $25.
Pure Barre’s Date Night at the Barre
Looking for a date idea that doesn’t involve going out to dinner? Bring your partner to Pure Barre’s Date Night at the Barre event this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at the studio’s Five Points location. Book your tickets beforehand through email (columbia@purebarre.com), $30 per couple, or sign up at the studio. While you’re there, you can also buy a pair of Valentine’s Day Pure Barre sticky socks for $15.
FIT Columbia’s Couple’s Acro Class
Make this Valentine’s Day one to remember. FIT Columbia is hosting a partner acro class with LunaTrix Arts this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. consisting of exercises that focus on building trust and finding balance. There will also be chocolates and champagne after to celebrate. You won’t find a class like this anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Tickets are $30 per person, or $50 per couple, and can be purchased online.