Valentine’s Day is creeping up, and whether you’re head over heels, happily single, or just here for the chocolate, it’s time to make some real plans. Sure, you could do the usual candlelit dinner (boring), or you could shake things up with a night of live music, a murder mystery, or even a date with wolves. (Yes, actual wolves.)
Westchester & the Hudson Valley are packed with romantic, unique, and downright fun events this year. So, ditch the cliché dinner-and-a-movie and check out these 10 exciting ways to celebrate love—whether it’s with a partner, friends, or just yourself (because self-love is the best love).
Romantic Dining & Culinary Experiences
1. Valentine’s Dinner at The Culinary Institute of America (CIA)
📍 Hyde Park, NY
If you want to impress your date without actually cooking, let the future food-world superstars at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) do the work for you. Their campus restaurants—run by some of the best up-and-coming chefs—offer specially curated Valentine’s menus that will have you feeling like you’re dining at a Michelin-starred spot (for a fraction of the price).
With options like the classic elegance of The Bocuse Restaurant (French cuisine), the farm-to-table charm of American Bounty, or the cozy Italian vibes of Ristorante Caterina de’ Medici, you really can’t go wrong.
Pro Tip: Call ahead for reservations—these fill up fast!
2. Italian Trattoria Cooking Class (For Couples Who Want a Hands-On Date Night)
📍 Ossining, NY – Teaching Table
Nothing says romance like rolling up your sleeves and cooking a delicious Italian meal together—especially when there’s wine involved. This hands-on cooking class at Teaching Table will have you and your partner whipping up a gourmet feast, including:
• Filet mignon with a rich red wine reduction
• Roasted beets & goat cheese salad
• Handmade pasta (because carbs = love)
And of course, plenty of wine to sip while you cook. Because what’s Valentine’s Day without a little buzz?
Pro Tip: Perfect for couples AND besties looking for a fun night out.
Live Music & Entertainment
3. Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special
📍 Mount Kisco, NY – St. Mark’s Episcopal Church
Picture this: A historic church, hundreds of flickering candles, and a string quartet serenading you with the most romantic love songs ever written. Sounds straight out of a movie, right?
The Candlelight Concert series is bringing an intimate, breathtaking experience to Mount Kisco this Valentine’s Day, featuring classical and contemporary love songs. This event is perfect for couples who want something truly magical, or anyone who just appreciates good music and good vibes.
Pro Tip: Snag front-row seats for the best candlelit experience.
4. Candlelight Concert: Best of Bridgerton
📍 Mount Kisco, NY – St. Mark’s Episcopal Church
If you’re obsessed with Bridgerton (or just want an excuse to dress in Regency-era fashion), this is the event for you. A live string quartet will play modern pop hits in classical style, just like in the hit Netflix series. Expect Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and more—reimagined with a period drama twist.
Bonus points if you come in costume.
Unique & Fun Valentine’s Activities
5. Valentine’s Murder Mystery & Party
📍 Westchester County, NY
Love is in the air… and so is mystery. If your idea of a perfect date night includes solving crimes over cocktails, this interactive murder mystery experience is for you.
You’ll be part of a live-action whodunnit, playing detective while enjoying food, drinks, and dramatic plot twists.
Pro Tip: Perfect for couples who want something thrilling, or groups of friends looking for a wildly fun night out.
6. Valentine’s Day with Wolves 🐺
📍 South Salem, NY – Wolf Conservation Center
Who needs a candlelit dinner when you can spend Valentine’s Day with real wolves? At this unique Wolf Conservation Center event, you’ll:
• Meet ambassador wolves & learn about their conservation
• Create wolf-themed Valentine’s crafts
• Enjoy a cozy, nature-filled evening under the stars
Pro Tip: Perfect for animal lovers & adventurous couples.
7. Valentine’s Day Chocolate & Wine Pairing
📍 Tarrytown, NY
The ultimate aphrodisiac combo? Chocolate & wine—and this event delivers both in abundance. Held at a local Hudson Valley winery, this tasting will pair gourmet handcrafted chocolates with rich reds and crisp whites for an indulgent, romantic experience.
Pro Tip: Bring a date or a wine-loving friend—either way, it’s a win-win.
