Jacksonville – The Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens (JABG) invites guests to experience Valentine’s Day in a whole new light at Valentine’s After Dark, a new after-hours event taking place Saturday, February 14, from 5 to 8 p.m.
For $20 per ticket, this 21+ evening transforms JABG into a glowing nighttime escape, with Valentine’s-themed lighting and sparkling décor illuminating the Lake Loop. Guests are encouraged to sip, stroll, and socialize while enjoying beer and wine available for purchase throughout the gardens. Designed for couples, friends, and solo guests alike, Valentine’s After Dark focuses on connection, creativity, and romance. Interactive experiences included in the evening are a Valentine’s scavenger hunt and bingo card, Tunnel of Love note exchange, themed photo booth, and more.
Those looking for a creative experience can add on a step-by-step Valentine’s-themed painting class with local artist Stephen Dunn, offered in two sessions from 3 to 5 p.m. or 5 to 7 p.m. This guided painting experience must be purchased separately; price includes admission to Valentine’s After Dark. Guests may also enhance their evening with charcuterie picnic add-ons catered by Graze Craze. Pricing and options are available through the event ticketing page.
Proceeds from Valentine’s After Dark directly support the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Year-round events like this, along with daily admission and memberships, play a vital role in funding JABG’s ongoing maintenance and operations, while also helping to support improvement projects that enhance the gardens for the community year after year. To purchase tickets, visit https://jacksonvillearboretum.org/events/valentines-after-dark.
WHAT: Valentine’s After Dark is a brand-new nighttime Valentine’s Day celebration at the Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, featuring the grounds lit up with festive, romantic lighting. Guests can sip, stroll, and enjoy interactive experiences designed to spark connection, creativity, and a little romance.
WHEN: Saturday, February 14
5 – 8 p.m.
WHERE: Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
1445 Millcoe Road, Jacksonville FL 32225
HOW: $20 per ticket (add-ons available) at https://jacksonvillearboretum.org/events/valentines-after-dark.
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