Valentine’s Day in Howard County
Valentine’s Day is only 1 week away and love is in the air in Howard County. Now is the time start thinking about how you will celebrate. But before you decide it might help to know a little about the history of the day. You may be surprised to find that February 14 is more than just an invention of the greeting card industry.
The roots of the holiday are quite ancient. There are a number of early Saints with the name Valentine or a derivative and their feast days are collectively celebrated on the 14th. And many historians believe the mid-February date was chosen to coincide with Lupercalia, a Roman celebration of love. But it was Jeffery Chaucer, a medieval writer, who first made the association of the date with romance. In Parliament of Fools (1382) he wrote; “For this was on Saint Valentine’s Day, when every bird cometh there to choose his mate.”
In Victorian times hand written Valentines were all the rage but were eventually replaced by mass produced cards. Now most of us exchange more than just cards; chocolates in heart shaped boxes, jewelry, or flowers are perennial favorites.
If you are looking for something special to do in Howard County there are number of romantic and fun things happening.
- Bon Secours in Marriotsville is hosting a Valentine’s Day Dinner and Renewal of Vows Friday February 14 at 6pm. The event includes Mass, Wine and Cheese reception. Dinner is served at 7:30p.m. The renewal of vows will be led by Rev. Matthew Buening. The cost is $75. Please RSVP to the Welcome Center at 410-442-1320.
- Iron Bridge Wine Company in Columbia invites you to bring your Valentine in to celebrate in style with our Chef’s Fantastic 4-Course Menu. Friday’s event is $85 per person plus tax and gratuity for the food. Alcoholic beverages are available for an additional cost. Reservations are required. Call 410-997-3456.
- Open Table can make planning a romantic dinner a snap with a list of special deals at area restaurants. No need to make phone calls or visit the restaurant’s website. Make your reservations directly from Open Table
- Turf Valley Resort is offering a Valentine Get Away Package that includes dinner, and overnight stay and breakfast. Meals are served in Alexandria’s Restaurant. Top it off with a spa treatment for an additional charge you will have created the perfect treat. https://www.turfvalley.com/Stay/Leisure-Packages
- Looking for something more daring Terrapin Adventures is offering a three hour adventure course with free hot chocolate, Hershey kisses and the chance to win free gifts from the merchants at Savage Mill. Call Terrapin Adventures at 301-725 -1313 for details and reservations. The cost is $100 – $110 and will be available on 02/15/2014 – 02/16/2014 :: 09:30 PM – 04:30 PM
It won’t be long till the big day is here so make your plans and reservations early. And however you decide to celebrate I hope you have a lovely time.
Resources:
https://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day