As is befitting of this time of year, it’s traditional to spoil your loved one. The question is, how? The following events should provide some inspiration.
Somewhat unbelievably February has arrived which means all things Valentines related are on the go. Shop shelves are brimming with pink and red chocolates and sweets, the flower stores are gearing up for their busiest time of year and people everywhere will soon be scrambling for the perfect Valentines card.
Here's what's happening in your area:
Johannesburg:
Valentines Blues Festival
NIROX Sculpture Park in the Cradle of Humankind is hosting a ‘Valentine’s Blues’ event on the 14th of February. NIROX comprises an artists’ residency, studios, a workshop, a sculpture park, outdoor concert venues and several other related function facilities all of which are located within 15 hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens and waterways. In other words, it’s the perfect venue for a romantic day out. While some of South Africa’s best Blues musicians perform throughout the day, guests will have their pick of gourmet, organic nibbles provided by Epicurean Emporium, a collective of high-end food stalls. Those celebrating Valentines and families alike are welcome. Gates open at 10am. Ticket prices start at R300 and can be bought from www.acousticsnow.org
Valentine’s eve picnic with a vintage twist
SilvaSale Wanderers Club is hosting a vintage style Valentine’s eve picnic on the 13th of February. In addition to a gourmet picnic basket crammed with delicious goodies, guests will be treated to freshly popped popcorn, vintage Coca-Cola and their very own butler service. Café style tables, live entertainment and the ultimate Valentines movie - ‘Casablanca’ – will also feature. Tickets cost R435pp. For further details, go to www.silvasale.co.za
Cape Town:
Market Love
D’Aria Winery is hosting a delightful ‘Love Market’ at its beautiful country style function venue in Durbanville on the 13th of February. All things Valentines related will be on sale at the market as well as various pretty collectables, food, drinks, clothing and special treats. Two types of picnic baskets will be available for sale too. Basket number one will feature ham, sweet and sour-filled camembert, fig, brie, ciabatta, cheese sticks, fruit salads and Appletisers. Basket number two will feature the same items bar the fruit salads and drinks which will be replaced by koeksisters. The picnic baskets can be ordered in advance, feed four people and cost R400 each. The market will run from 9am to 5pm. Entrance is free. For more information go to www.capemarkets.co.za
Watch a classic under the stars
The Galileo Open-Air Cinema will present Casablanca amidst the stunning surrounds of the Nooitgedacht Wine Estate on the 14th of February at 8pm. Before cosying up for the movie, lovebirds will have the chance to tuck into a selection delectable artisanal nibbles and drinks at a market and will be treated to live music and welcome drinks. Movie-goers will be supplied with a chair, a blanket and a small gift and be given the chance to ham it up for the cameras at a custom photo booth. The evening starts at 6pm and the movie will be screened at 8pm. Ticket prices start at R79. For more information, go to www.thegalileo.co.za
Durban:
Feel the love in style
Durban’s renowned Oyster Box Hotel is celebrating the month of love with a special ‘B Together Rose Quartz’ spa treatment. The treatment comprises a 90 minute rose quartz massage, sparkling wine, use of the plunge pool, tranquility lounge and a snack buffet, all of which costs R1, 800 per couple. If you really want to splurge, add on a night at the hotel. Prices vary. Whatever you choose, it will probably be a weekend to remember. For more information go to www.oysterboxhotel.com
Dance the night away…Paris style
It doesn’t get more romantic than Paris which is why the Cosmopolitan Restaurant at The Square Boutique Hotel and Spa in Umhlanga is offering a spectacular Paris themed dinner and dance “extravaganza” on the 13th of February. The evening kicks off at 7pm and costs R350 per person which includes a glass of wine and a rose for the ladies. A prize will be awarded for the best dressed couple so dress to impress and don’t forget your dancing shoes. For more information, go to www.thesquareboutiquehotel.co.za