How to Spend Valentine’s Day in Geelong
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13.02.2024

How to Spend Valentine’s Day in Geelong

Love is in the air, and Geelong is buzzing with excitement as Valentine's Day approaches.

Ah February 14, you’re back again! Whether you’re celebrating with a long-term partner, a new flame, or even just showing yourself some love, there’s no shortage of romantic activities to indulge in for Valentine’s Day.

From picturesque waterfront walks to intimate dining experiences, Geelong has something for every couple looking to ignite their passion this Valentine’s Day.

Just want flowers? Check out the best flower delivery places in Geelong

Watch the Notebook at Barwon Edge Outdoor Cinema

Arguably a VERY couples movie, this event put on by Barwon Edge and it’s new outdoor cinema is one for those who are completely a-okay with showing their emotions in front of each other. If you’ve seen the Notebook, you’ll know what we mean.

Happening on Valentine’s Day night located on the beautiful grassed area at the venue, the night will give you prime cuddle time, plenty of snacks to choose from and a chance to relive the classic.

Barwon Edge is bringing a new outdoor cinema series to Geelong this summer

Candlelit Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Finish off your Valentine’s Day celebrations with a candlelit dinner at one of Geelong’s renowned restaurants. From cosy cafes to elegant fine dining establishments, you’ll find a plethora of options to suit every taste and budget. Indulge in delectable cuisine while savouring the intimate atmosphere and creating cherished memories together.

A few places are even running romantic V-Day dinners. La Cachette are doing a 4-course meal created by hatted chef Matt Podbury, Two Noble are doing an exclusive six-course chef’s banquet (with a free cocktail on arrival), the Arborist are running their $70 feed me menu, while 1915 is doing a three course feast designed by Chef Andy for $80 per person and Wah Wah Gee are doing a Feed Me Dinner over the bay for $69 per person.

If you’re more into candlelit cocktails rather than dinner, 18th Amendment are running Love Liberations, offering two drinks on arrival, two cocktails and a pre or post dinner food item to share for $70 per couple.

We’re pretty spoilt for choice in Geelong so the options will be endless. Pick your favourite spot and indulge!

 

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A post shared by Two Noble (@two_noble)

Head to the movies

It may be seen as a couples only outing on Valentine’s Day but plenty of fun can be had from seeing a horror/action film as chances are all the couples will flock to the comedys and dramas. The cinema will pretty much be just for you!

Alternatively, head to the loved up sessions and throw popcorn at couples. There’s nothing like being a glum single and ruining seeking joy in someone’s annoyance.

Get Scenic

Yes, gazing lovingly into each other’s eyes in a scenic location is an utter cliche, but there is a reason people keep doing it. Our top spots to get cozy are along the Barwon River (down the Highton end), at the scenic lookout at Brownhill Heights Lookout or the Pier down at Rippleside Park – it’s often quieter and gives a great alternative view of the city.

You can also do this while indulging in some delicious food if you opt for a picnic. Just pack a picnic basket filled with your favourite treats and head to the serene oasis of the likes of Geelong Botanic Gardens or Eastern Beach. Find a secluded spot amidst the lush greenery or by the tranquil ponds, where you can enjoy a romantic meal together surrounded by nature’s beauty.

We’ve listed our favourites spots in the piece below!

Bust out your picnic blanket and your best Tupperware this V-day and visit one of Geelong’s iconic picnic spots

Combine Scenic with Fitness and Go Hiking

This one is low cost but high impact – which is all you could really want from a date. All you need is a pair of runners or hiking boots, a date or a pal (even a pooch) and you’re good to go. With no distractions aside from the trees, birds and bees, you and your significant other can make the most of some quality time together.

We’ve put together a list of hidden hikes worth checking out, or if you’re keen to keep it local and chill, check out 10 of the best coastal walks in the region.

Wine Tasting in the Bellarine Peninsula

Indulge your senses with a romantic wine tasting adventure in the nearby Bellarine Peninsula. And in this weather, could it be any more perfect?!

With its rolling vineyards and charming cellar doors, the region offers the perfect backdrop for an intimate day of sampling exquisite wines and sharing unforgettable moments.

With V-day falling right in the middle of the week, most cellar doors should be open and operating. Check out curated guide below but make sure to check opening times ahead of rocking up.

The best wineries, distilleries, breweries and hot spots to visit on the Bellarine, all just a stone’s throw away

 

See A Fine Romance

Love jazz? Celebrate Valentine’s Day with songs of love and romance from the The Great American Songbook including much adored melodic gems by the likes of Cole Porter, Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee to Frank Sinatra at Geelong Arts Centre’s Open House.

Enamoured by the romance and sophistication of the golden era of song, acclaimed Australian vocalist Tamara Kuldin and her swingin’ little big band will delight audience members with her playful, sultry and heartfelt interpretation of much adored songs that will surely tug at your heartstrings.

Be transported to a bygone era of romance, as A Fine Romance unfolds in captivating cabaret style at The Open House.

Serenade your loved one with sultry, timeless melodies. Let the music set the mood for an unforgettable, romantic evening filled with passion and enchantment.

Get tickets here.

Avoid The Crowds

Restaurants and date hotspots are often fully-booked and pricey during Valentine’s.

However, this doesn’t mean you can’t have a special day. According to TikTok user, @vivianeaudi, you can set up fun, low-cost activities, such as going on a picnic, arts and crafts, games or enjoy a cosy dinner and a movie at home.

The best date nights in Geelong that aren’t dinner and a movie

Single? Try speed dating

Looking for love in Geelong? Scrap the apps and head to Wah Bah for a fun-filled speed dating event for singles aged 25-35, on February 14.

Hosted by Geelong Speed Dating, this event is all about finding your Valentine, meeting potential matches and letting Cupid do the rest, from 7-9pm.

This event is hosted for singles aged 25-35 years, who will carry out a series of speed-dates, rotating every 5 minutes. Any matches will receive each other’s contact details within 24 hours following the event. Drinks are available at bar prices and there is a short break mid-way through the evening.

Keen? Tickets here.

A Sunset Soiree

If you’re happy to wait to celebrate and are looking for something a little bit different, Portarling Mussel Tours are running their first ever Sunset Soirées, beginning on February 16.

For three hours, you’ll hop aboard the beautiful vessel and dine on seafood and enjoy the colours of the evening skies. The evening will include sipping on locals wines, enjoying local produce platters, visiting mussel farms, experiencing cooking demonstrations, tasting mussels 3 ways and looking out for dolphins.

Multiple dates available. Find out more about that one here.

Try the ‘supermarket’ challenge 

This challenge encourages a low-cost, fun activity to try. User @serenaajoyce_ suggests building a thoughtful, personalised hamper within your own set budget, filling this with your partner’s favourite items or snacks you can find around your store of choice.

Try setting a theme for the gifts, to keep it interesting.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, Geelong offers endless opportunities to make this Valentine’s Day a truly special and memorable occasion. So, embrace the romance, cherish your loved one, and create unforgettable moments together in this charming city by the bay.