Leenika Belfield-Martin | Lifestyle Editor
Valentine’s Day is the day of love, and Virginia is for lovers. Why not take a break from studying to enjoy all that Virginia has to offer? Here’s what Hampton Roads has to offer for the loveliest day of the year.
“There are many ways to celebrate [Valentine’s] day. Couples go on romantic dates, and friends have parties and watch romance films,” longtime Virginia resident Amanda Jones said.
Hampton’s own Pearis Bellamy, otherwise known as Miss Black Virginia, is hosting one event during Valentine’s week. Bellamy’s event, “Galentine’s Giveback: Girls’ Night Out,” is a girls’ night event in partnership with a local boutique.
This event will have a raffle, sparkling cider and desserts, card-making for survivors of domestic violence, spoken word, vendors and mini makeovers. The Galentine’s event will take place at Kiss My Denim Boutique, a consignment store that is less than five minutes from campus. It will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 7 to 9 p.m.
Want your Valentine’s Day to be filled with good food and laughter? Then head to Wing and A Prayer for a couples’ comedy night on Feb. 14. Wing and a Prayer is a newly remodeled restaurant and lounge. It is less than 10 minutes from campus and serves southern-style soul food. You and your significant other can watch two Hampton Roads comedians and eat a lovely southern dinner for $25. The lounge will have two showings: one at 7 p.m. and another at 9 p.m.
Spend your Valentine’s weekend with the cutest creatures at The Virginia Zoo’s “Kiss and Tail” program. The zoo is hosting a special adults-only (21 and up) program on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 3:30 to 6 p.m. This day includes complimentary wine, a zoo tour and a presentation.
“Going to the zoo is a cute date idea because it brings out your inner child. It’s also a good way to really get to know your significant other,” said Olivia Hinsley, a sophomore communicative sciences and disorders major.
If you prefer animals of the aquatic variety, The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center is hosting a Valentine’s Dinner on Feb. 10, Feb. 12 and Feb. 14.
The aquarium has several unique venues for dinner, including the Red Sea Tunnel, the Norfolk Canyon exhibit and the Light Tower Aquarium. The Red Sea Tunnel is located in front of a shark display, and the Light Tower Aquarium features sea turtles. This event is on the pricey side; it costs $189 for a six-course meal.
However, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to break the bank. Groupon is a great resource for finding sales for up to 70 percent off. Some local businesses that have Groupon deals are Sushi King, Soya Sushi Bar and Bistro, Chops and Chanello’s.
Whether you choose a restaurant or a zoo, enjoy your Valentine’s Day in VA.
The Hampton Script 