At the beginning, middle or end of the day — it really is true – love is all you need! This is especially the case when it comes to Valentine’s Day!
No matter your budget, you don’t have to blow it all on a fancy feast prepared by a celebrated chef to show you care. You can concoct a high-end celebration — worthy of your special someone — right at home!
In U/D, you’ll find everything you need just a short walk away. Perfect for spending less time prepping and more time together, read on for tips to creating the perfect V-Day in the comfort of your own home.
Whether you want to go traditional with surf-and-turf or keep it light and easy, you can find all the delicious ingredients you need for a special meal close by. We even have options for the fast-food lover in your life!
Classics are classics for a reason. And nothing whispers sweet romance more than quality steak and fresh seafood for many people! Lucky for you, Save-On-Foods is home to both of these delectable treats. Get yourself some fresh shrimp to grill or saute and pair it with a thick cut of Alberta AAA Prime steak. Your choice of baked, mashed or scalloped potatoes and steamed vegetables create balance.
Voila! A fancy meal right at home, made by you spells “I love you!”
Did you know Save-On-Foods is a proud partner of the environment-loving Ocean Wise sustainable seafood program? Get hooked on sustainable seafood? Learn more on their website here!
Not interested in cooking for V-Day? Try one of the charcuterie platters from Save-On-Foods you can plate at home! Simply assemble the goodies on a platter or rustic wooden board with a freshly baked, crusty baguette or boxed crackers.
And who says fast food has to be eaten from the packaging? Get takeout on your way home from Nick’s Steak and Pizza, Varsity Pizza, present it on your fanciest bone china, pour your soda into a wine glass and have fun in front of the TV watching a rom-com or simply reminiscing about the way you met!
Don’t forget your furry friends on this day of love! Pet Planet on our retail main street has healthy treats (don’t worry – your pets won’t even know it’s good for them) and toys for your little buddies. They can join in with a special feast of their own – but maybe not at the table!
Whether you’re keeping it alcohol-free or indulging in some wine, the perfect pairing for your dinner is a walk away!
Keep it simple or go all-out – it’s up to you!
Over at Market Wines, you can get help with pairing a bottle of wine with your chosen dinner. With hundreds of wines from around the world to choose from, staff are ready to help you make the perfect selection! There will definitely be a match made for you and your special someone!
“Don’t be afraid to get a little adventurous,” Shalini Sagoo, who manages marketing at the store, tells us. “The best part about wine is trying new things! Classic pairings are just a guideline. At the end of the day, pair what tastes good to you. If you’re ever in doubt, go for Rosé, or let us help pick you the perfect bottle!”
Looking for a pre- or post-dinner drink? You’re in good hands too. Try out a whiskey on the rocks to keep it easy, or get fancy with a colourful cocktail recipe you’ve been saving for a special occasion!
“If you’re craving something sweet after dinner there are a myriad of options to try. If you’re having something chocolate based, Port is a great choice,” Shalini says. “A Sauternes is delightful alongside a fruit tart or blue cheese – try Château Roumieu, it comes in full and half size bottles.”
“If lusciously sweet isn’t your style, a dram of wine barrel finished whisky is a pleasant finale to any evening.”
Having a dry night in? Save-On-Foods is home to sparking non-alcoholic wines, as well as many club sodas, specialty tonics and juices you can use to create the perfect mocktail recipe!
TIP: Check out local cocktail bitters company Black Cloud Bitters for inventive and delicious mocktails you can enjoy again and again!
Celebrating at home doesn’t have to mean Netflix and nachos! Make the night a little more special by breaking up the routine and doing something a little extra.
First off, take a few minutes to set the tone for the evening with purposeful décor choices. If you’re usually a ‘dinner on the couch’ kind of household, pull out the tablecloth and set the dining table or island, dim the lights, let the candles work their lighting magic and turn on some soft jazz or Calgary’s own k.d. lang known for romantic favourites like Western Stars, Big Big Love and Hush Sweet Lover.
Choose some fragrant flowers for the table – red roses are another classic choice – and you’re ready to dine in style. Simple changes make all the difference between your everyday home and a special night in.
If you have yet to buy into the board game phenomenon, make tonight the night. Whether it’s a game of Twister, Trouble or Trivia, games are a fun option for couples or the whole family, and you can team up or battle it out with a little fun competition!
DID YOU KNOW? Calendar Club at Market Mall carries plenty of games to enjoy! No matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find hours of entertainment here.
Take it outside! Tired of being cooped up? Get out for a V-Day walk! Explore your own neighbourhood or head to Bowness Park and try your hand at the ice bikes and skating.
If you’ve got little ones at home, have them join in! There’s no rule that kids can’t celebrate V-Day with their family – include them in the planning and cooking, and pick out a family movie or game to play. Once they go to bed, the rest of the night is yours! Don’t forget to reach out to loved ones who are spending this time alone. Set up a Zoom call, FaceTime or Skype. And let them see the twinkle in your eye that they spark!
No matter how you spend the day, it’s important to remember the true meaning of Valentine’s Day – love! Whether you celebrate with a significant other, family or yourself, have a safe, special and loving V-Day.
There are so many moments and community milestones to celebrate and anticipate here at University District. Keep pace and stay connected! We share so many of our adventures in and around U/D on social media – follow along at University District on Facebook, @udistrictyyc_ on Instagram and Twitter, too! check out our top social post of the year right here!
The University District blog is a resource for Calgarians who want to live, work, play, visit or buy in the northwest. We will provide you with information, stories, news and a closer look at the things that matter so you can live a more inspired, active and connected life in NW Calgary at University District… Life works here.
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