Love is all around for Valentine's Day

Numerous ways to share Valentine's Day in Tuscaloosa with whoever you love, single or taken.

By Miranda Omer, Local CorrespondentMon, Feb 08 2010 at 7:34 PM EST

LOVE IN ALL LANGUAGES: You can say, "I love you," in all sorts of ways, single or attached. Show those you care for how you feel this week. (Photo: viZZZual/Flickr)
Ah, Valentine's Day. The annual event that takes place in mid-February that you either love or hate. Whether you are single or linked to a special someone this year, there are things that you can do around Tuscaloosa to make this day enjoyable. Singles — no more moping around the house in your pajamas resenting the all the love in the world. Couples — this year you and your significant other can look forward to being more original than just dinner and chocolates ... or even stick to what you know you both love. It's up to you ... this year, Valentine's can be happy for everyone. 
 
For the singles
For those who don't have a significant other to snuggle up to this Valentine's Day ... don't fret. Just because your roommate is going to a fancy dinner with his or her boyfriend or girlfriend of three years doesn't mean that you have to sit at home and feel sorry for yourself. What about spending the day (and many more days, in fact) with another kind of companion? Maddie's Speed Dating Pet Adoption Event in Downtown Northport is your chance to show a certain furry someone just how loveable you can be. There are countless amounts of cats and dogs that need homes in the Tuscaloosa area that would love to greet you at your door every day. The event will be held at the Northport Community Center from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Get creative by giving a new kind of companion a taste of Cupid's medicine this year.
 
For the couples
Tired of boring Valentine's Day dinners? If you are in a couple and want to do something out of the ordinary this year, here's your chance to make some new memories with the one you love. This year, you and your special someone can enjoy a rustic night out with dinner at Oak Mountain State Park. This one of a kind encounter in Pelham, Ala., is happening February 13 from 7 to 9 p.m. Hurry though, because you have to reserve your spot. Only 15 couples will be able to attend. Dinner will be a fixed menu complete with pork loin with sautéed peppers, parmesan creamed potatoes, whole string beans with honey cashew sauce and rolls. If desired, you can also enjoy some wine with your unique cuisine. Cheesecake with strawberries will serve as dessert and the perfect ending to your Valentine's Day. Call to reserve by Wednesday, February 10. (205) 620-2520.
 
For everyone
These ideas can be shared with a date or a group of other single friends. Either way, these are fun ideas and opportunities to spend time with anyone you prefer this holiday. 
  • Sips n Strokes. Instructor Wendy LoVoy will guide you through a step-by-step painting lesson to complete your own masterpiece to take home. February 13 is Valentine's Date Night for the attached, priced at $50 per couple for appetizers and a canvas to create together. If desired, you can also bring in your favorite bottle of wine to share, or purchase some when you arrive. February 14 is Family Day from 2 to 4 p.m. If unattached, spend Family Day with your sister or brother. Maybe Mom or Dad would even like to join. Although no alcohol will be sold for Family Day, all ages are welcome and you can choose to paint either a heart or a bouquet of flowers. The cost will be $25 per person. 
  • Live music at the Bama Theatre. There are two nights you can participate in this event in downtown Tuscaloosa, with a date or with friends. If you want to celebrate early, Acoustic Night will be February 11 with Jill Chambless and Dylan Sneed performing at 7 p.m. For those of you who choose to be authentic celebrators, Dave Barnes will be playing at the same location February 14 at 7 p.m. It's pretty safe to say that everyone loves music, so this option is bound to be enjoyable if you're in a relationship or not. 
For those just wanting to keep it simple
If you are a traditionalist and want to stick within the clichés of the holiday of love, there are always ways to stay within your comfort zone. 
  • Flowers. Nothing says "I care" like a sweet bouquet of beautiful flowers. For those not wanting to make a huge deal out of the holiday but still pay tribute, giving someone you love a small token of appreciation can never go wrong. Stephanie's Flowers on 15th Street is a family owned and operated florist that can make your Valentine's run smoothly with a delivery service six days a week to Northport and Tuscaloosa. (205) 345-3074. 
  • A movie. There are a number of romantic comedies occupying theaters all year round, but few that can attract couples and singles to enjoy simultaneously. "Valentine's Day," opening February 12 at Hollywood 16 Cinema on Skyland Boulevard, is a movie we can all enjoy. The cast alone leaves reason enough to see this flick, with a list of stars resembling "He's Just Not That Into You," making your head spin (in a good way) with all the different character connections. This movie is bound to keep us all interested on a date or out with friends. Click here to read the movie's top romantic movie gestures from Fandango. 
Whether you are single or attached this year, Valentine's Day is not the enemy. Instead of dreading this inevitable holiday, embrace it for what it is ... a day to let anyone, or everyone, know how much you truly love them.
 
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