By Niamh Byrne
Valentine’s day comes around every year on February 14th, with celebrations of love all around the world. Last minute shoppers scramble to get the only overpriced flowers left on the shelves to show their loved ones how much they care. The singletons of the season posting on social media the infamous Harry Potter quote “I’ll be in my room making no noise and pretending like I don’t exist.” But, let’s not fall into the habit of focusing on the romantic side of things only, and see the bigger picture. Valentine’s day is not just for celebrating the love of a significant other, it’s about celebrating love as it is. The love for a family member, a pet, a friend, or most important of all ourselves.
Whether you’re commemorating the night with a romantic partner, enjoying a Galentines (Feb 13), bringing your mom out, or taking yourself on a date, these ideas are perfect for you!
1) A Speakeasy!
The blind pig is the perfect example of a hidden gem in the heart of Dublin. This speakeasy goes above and beyond by not publicly displaying an exact address! Another perk of this bar is that live music is on offer. The music calls back to the jazz age with a modern twist. You can visit the speakeasy any day of the week to enjoy their unique artists playing.
2) Dinner at Pink!
Dinner at this unique restaurant is the perfect idea for a Galentine’s day out! Why is it so unique? Everything in the restaurant is pink!
From brunch and afternoon tea offers to night-time dining Pink has many things to offer. Located conveniently on St Anne Street, why not go for a cocktail or two after in one of the many bars the lively street has to offer.
3) Stella!
Transport through time to the glitz and glam of the 1920s in this unique one-screen cinema. Ranked 16th in the world’s most beautiful cinemas and no.1 in the best cinemas in the UK and Ireland.
Stella shows new release films and old Hollywood classics, for anyone really wanting to take in the timezone. Choose between sitting in your very own armchair or if you want to have a lie down, beds are available to sit for the duration of the film too!
4) Valentine’s doggy ball!
If you don’t want to part with your furry bestie this one’s for you! This three course dinner date is for both humans and doggies. Your doggie will receive its own meal of beef pawtar and barkuterie board while you’re enjoying your feast. Don’t forget to ask one of the staff to take a picture of you with your furry friend for their legendary doggo wall.
At the end of the night a best dressed contest will take place between all the dogs to win a doggie hamper! Tickets to this funfest are €80 per couple, including the three course meal. This event would be a very fun and unique experience indeed.
5) Paint by the Pints!
Paint by the pints is exactly as it sounds. Sit and paint with your favourite people, all while enjoying a drink. This is a BYOB event so you can bring whatever you want!
The best thing about it is you can be a beginner and still leave with a masterpiece, with a step-by-step guide from their artists. Supplies and materials needed are all included, which means you just have to bring your enthusiasm!
That’s it for the top five things to do in Dublin on Valentine’s day. We hope you all have a fun, loving day.
