Safe & Sweet: Valentine's Day in 2021
From CTVisit.com and the Department of Economic and Community DevelopmentHow sweet it is to be loved by your special someone. And while Valentine’s Day celebrations may look a bit different this year, you can still infuse romance into every moment. To make it a day your date will cherish, (maybe even for a lifetime) we’ve put together a guide to a safe and memorable Valentine’s Day in 2021.At this time, Connecticut businesses are working diligently to prioritize safety, so you can focus on fun. As always, be sure to check with each location before venturing out as hours may change due to COVID-19.
Start the Day Right
Valentine’s Day is on a Sunday this year, so why not pack the day with shared experiences? Make brunch plans or take out a brunch box from The Corner Restaurant and enjoy it together at home – perhaps as breakfast in bed.Later, take a romantic hike or stroll through picturesque downtowns together. Speed things up with outdoor winter activities and Jumpfest Winter Festival or take it slow with antiquing and a Train Show. Admire stunning masterpieces or perhaps even plan a road trip for two and explore winter at the beach. If you're spending the day with your spouse, renew your vows at the Tiffany Juliet House's Plated Brunch. And no matter the activity, but sure to leave room for romance!
Whisk Them Away
What's more romantic than whisking your special someone away? Get a change of scenery and book a room at a picturesque hotel, inn or B&B. Escape to one of these romantic winter retreats or choose waterfront ambiance at these idyllic inns by the sea. Enjoy a leisurely bath in an oversized tub, cozy up next to a gas or wood burning fireplace, and receive a bouquet of flowers, champagne and breakfast in bed with Manor House Inn’s Romantic Getaway Package. No matter where you stay, Cupid’s sure to find you.Want to get away in a new and different way? Enjoy a 3 course chef's dinner and the "Yes-or-No Morgan” show in your own private dining room at The Goodwin Hotel for an immersive mystery dinner. Partake in the sleuthing as clues and hidden secrets are revealed throughout your meal — it'll be a night you won't forget!
Plan a Romantic Night In
Let a Chef Do the Cooking
Staying in on Valentine’s Day? Cuddle up together and let someone else do the cooking. Whether surf or turf, salty or sweet, you’ll find unforgettable menus when you order takeout or delivery from Connecticut restaurants – you’ll even help #SupportCTbusinesses too.
Bring in Special Treats
Pick up chocolate covered popcorn and potato chips from Chocolate Shell in Old Lyme, vegan truffles and cheeses from Divine Treasures in Manchester, charcuterie plates from Avon Prime Meats. 
Go Crazy with Unique Sweets
Pick up photo-worthy sweets from Donut Crazy or any of these Instagrammable dessert spots or bakeries. Or custom engrave a romantic message on chocolates from Noteworthy Chocolates in Bethel. For an extra chocolate fix, take home something oh so sweet from any spot on the Connecticut Chocolate Trail. You can even build your own Valentine's goodie box complete with beer and tasty treats – just be sure to order in advance!
Serve Love Potion Libations
Want to add some extra flair to your evening? Try these take-home libations from local wineries, breweries & distilleries. Or if you’re cutting back on the alcohol this year, try these fun drinks for when you’re not drinking.
Enjoy At-Home Activities
Turn your home into a spa date for two with products from local shops. Order handmade massage oil and body butter from NaniSkinCare or The Glass Jar Natural Skincare. Do a couples’ face mask complete with a spa-style mask mixing bowl from Isankofa, or enjoy lip oils and romantic bath salts with rose petals from LTSavage Cosmetics. Or get crafty with these DIY Valentine's Day craft kits or an at-home painting kit from Painting with a Twist in Hartford.
Give One-of-a-Kind Gifts
And last but not least, the gift! When shopping for that special someone, the thought behind the gift can mean the world. So why not ditch the big retailers, try spots with truly unique items, and help keep a local boutique in business? From handmade treats and houseware to fashion, accessories and more, these Connecticut-made gifts will never be forgotten. You can even support local Black-owned businesses with this online directory or shop these women-owned businesses. Then, top it off with a handmade card from Hartford Prints – your date will feel truly special.