Valentine’s Day isn’t just for swooning lovebirds. It’s a chance to fling affection far and wide. Luckily, Birmingham offers adventures around town that are ideal for celebrating lovers and friends. Whether you’re orchestrating a Galentine’s gathering or crafting the ultimate Valentine’s Day date, we’ve got the scoop on some of the best local offerings to help you spread the love.
Sign up for a Painting Class
A painting class can be the perfect way to ignite your creativity while also kindling your romance or bonding with the girls. There are several painting class options around Birmingham that enhance the experience with the option of sipping on a glass. Studios such as Painting With a Twist and Sips N Strokes offer Valentine’s Day-themed classes throughout the week, which means multiple options for unleashing your inner artist and leaving with a cherished memory of time spent with those you love. Painting With a Twist even offers an at-home paint kit if you prefer a night in.
Team up for Trivia Night
Strengthen the bonds of friendship or love by teaming up for some friendly competition at trivia night. Numerous spots around Birmingham — including Trimtab Brewing Company, The Casual Pint, On Tap Sports Café Liberty Park, Oak Hill Bar & Grill, and Otey’s Tavern — offer weekly opportunities to test your knowledge across various topics. With each question, you’ll uncover new facets of each other’s personalities and interests, deepening your connection in a lighthearted and engaging atmosphere. Whether you’re showcasing your expertise or simply enjoying the thrill of the game, trivia night promises an unforgettable Valentine’s Day outing filled with fun, excitement, and the joy of togetherness.
Sidewalk Film Center and Cinema hosts Monthly Movie Trivia on the third Thursday of every month in the Sidewalk Cinema Lobby from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. This month, it’s on Thursday, February 15.
Share an Ice Cream Flight at Big Spoon Creamery
There’s no sweeter date night than a stop by Big Spoon Creamery, a small-batch artisan ice cream company that has endeared itself in the hearts and bellies of Birmingham residents. The celebrated ice cream shop was founded by Geri-Martha and Ryan O’Hara, who both have culinary backgrounds and decided to go all-in to establish their very own ice cream company.
After starting with an old-school trike and moving up to a full-fledged truck, Big Spoon Creamery now boasts two Birmingham locations — Homewood and Avondale. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, which features everything from classic scoops to sammies, sundaes, shakes, and malts. But the ice cream flight seems made for sharing on a special day like Valentine’s.
Think Outside the Box with Sidewalk Cinema
Think outside the box this Valentine’s Day by embracing the unexpected. Who says every plan has to revolve around the traditional notions of love? Stand out with your sweetheart or friend group by planning a showing at Sidewalk Cinema. Multiple films are scheduled for the week of Valentine’s Day, and each is as intriguing as the next.
Take a Tour and a Taste at Dread River Distilling
Dread River Distilling Co. has held a prominent spot in Birmingham’s beverage scene since its distillery opened in 2019. Aficionados — or those who simply appreciate small-batch spirits — will enjoy an invitation to a Dread River Distillery Tour. Get a behind-the-scenes peek at the Legends of the River Distillery Tour, a one-hour tour of its Birmingham facility. To shake up date night, add a Dread Mixology Class, an exciting hands-on activity that teaches guests how to make two seasonal cocktails. And, of course, top off the day with dinner and drinks at the Tasting Room.
Play a Round at TopGolf
Add a dash of friendly competition to your Valentine’s Day festivities with a night out at TopGolf. It’s easy to embrace the thrill of the game when you tee off with a loved one or friends. It’s sure to become an engaging and spirited round that will undoubtedly become a cherished memory for years to come.
DIY a Bouquet
Mobile floral trucks offer an opportunity to handpick blooms and create a personalized bouquet to perfectly capture your sentiments.
Whether it’s a solo adventure, a fun outing with friends, or a thoughtful gesture for the one you love, it can be a fun way to commemorate Valentine’s Day. Luckily for Birmingham residents, multiple mobile floral trucks, such as Wild Honey Flower Truck and Dimples Flowers, are planning special stops around town in the days leading up to (and on) the big day. Check their websites or social media for the details.
Instead of curating your own date night, would you rather purchase tickets to a pre-planned event? If so, here are some scheduled activities that will cut out the stress of planning!
Romantic Valentine’s Couples Class
February 9-14 | 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Learn more: kesslercollection.com
Get hands-on while indulging in culinary delights with the Romantic Valentine’s Couples Class at Habitat Cooking School at the Grand Bohemian Hotel. With multiple options in the week leading up to Valentine’s Day and on the holiday itself, the cooking class is a fun opportunity for couples to advance their culinary skills while spending time together.
Bubbles & Bloom: A Galentine’s Event
February 10 | 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Learn more: plentyofvino.com
Grab your girlfriends and head to Plenty of Vino in Hoover to participate in Bubbles & Bloom: A Galentine’s Event. The evening event is focused on celebrating all things friendship and includes the chance to learn about flower arranging from expert instructor Cassie Bailey of Petals of Serenity. While learning how to create showstopping floral displays, guests can enjoy a wine tasting and a memorable time with friends.
Valentine’s Day Tablescapes
February 13 | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Learn more: bbgardens.org
Embark on a journey of creativity with the Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ Valentine’s Day Tablescapes. Guests for the event will be treated with a refreshing mimosa to kickstart the day’s table decorating festivities, which will be led by Kathleen Varner, owner of Birmingham’s Petals and Props. Unleash your inner florist as you craft a stunning centerpiece to adorn your Valentine’s Day table.
Valentine with Vulcan
February 14 | 6 p.m.
Learn more: visitvulcan.com
At Valentine with Vulcan, couples are treated to a perfectly packaged evening designed for two. Delight in the offerings of a delectable grazing table adorned with artisan cheeses and meats, market-fresh fruit, and savory meats, alongside an assortment of pastries from The Happy Catering Company.
Listen to live acoustic music while sipping your choice of beverage, including a complimentary champagne toast and keepsake Vulcan champagne flutes. After capturing a few romantic moments against the picturesque city backdrop, check out the museum, park grounds, and observation deck.
Watch Casablanca at the Alabama Theatre
February 14 | 7 p.m.
Learn more: alabamatheatre.com
Plan a classic date night this Valentine’s Day by watching an iconic tale unfold on the silver screen at the Alabama Theatre. Casablanca is a timeless love story that transports viewers to a bygone era. The nostalgia is even better when watched at a historic venue like The Showplace of the South! As is tradition, the evening includes a sing-a-long with the Mighty Wurlitzer before the film begins.
French Cheese Tasting
February 15 | 6 p.m.
Learn more: facebook.com
Who says the love has to end on the 14th? Extend the romance and indulge in a delicious experience on Thursday, February 15, with a French Cheese Tasting at The Son of a Butcher. During the tasting, the shop’s head cheesemonger will educate guests as they sample five imported French cheeses, wines, assorted accompaniments, and chocolates from Chocolatá.
Happy Valentine’s Day, Birmingham!
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