Valentine's Day was established by Pope Gelasius I in the year 500, but was deleted in the Catholic calendar of saints by Pope Paul VI in 1969. Though it no longer has a religious meaning, the day has become a day for lovers to express their love for each other by presenting offerings of flowers, chocolates, jewelry or cards, which have become known as "valentines."
In the Wood River Valley, there are several ways to express yourself to your loved one. Chocolate from the Chocolate Foundry in Sun Valley, the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Ketchum or the Rolling in Dough bakery in Ketchum is always a good choice. A loved one might enjoy a purchase from Barry Peterson Jewelers in Ketchum, which will have a Rocks, Roses and Champagne event on Saturday, Feb. 12, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. An astrology reading from Madame Rosa at the Toy Store in Ketchum on Valentine's Day, Monday, Feb. 14, from 3-4:30 p.m. and in Sun Valley from 5-6:30 p.m. is a fun way to explore love connections past, present and future.
Besides a gift, a romantic dinner is always an option. Sun Valley Resort is taking reservations for Valentine's Day at Trail Creek Cabin, the Lodge Dining Room and the Ram Restaurant. CK's Real Food in Hailey will be open specially for Valentine's Day on Monday, as will be Galena Lodge, 23 miles north of Ketchum off state Highway 75, with dinner at 6:30 p.m. Reservations are required. In addition, enjoy Valentine's Day dining at Sayvour in Ketchum on Sunday, Feb. 13. It's not a bad idea to check all restaurants around the valley for Monday evening dining, which is not always an option but may be a special occasion for Valentine's Day.
On Saturday, Feb. 12, parents can enjoy a Valentine's Day night out by dropping their kids at the Wood River Community Y in Ketchum. The Y will provide snacks, dinner and a movie. The cost is $35 for Y members and $40 for non-members. For details, call 727-9622.
This evening, Feb. 11, couples in a mood for romance and dancing can enjoy the annual Boutonnieres Ball at the Lodge Dining Room at Sun Valley Resort.
Space is limited for the event, which admits 100 guests. A no-host reception starts at 6:30 p.m. and is followed by dinner and dancing at 7:30 p.m. with music by DJ Lenny Joseph. Tickets are $65 and dress is Sun Valley formal or black tie. For reservations, call 622-2800.
An added love fest for this year is the Valentine's Sweetheart Relay at the Sun Valley Nordic Center on Sunday, Feb. 13, at 11 a.m. The Nordic race is six laps covering one kilometer. Partners will alternate and must kiss to tag off. Pink and red costumes are encouraged.
And for those who are not in a relationship or bunk the entire idea of Valentine's Day, enjoy Chali 2una and the House of Vibe at Whiskey Jacques' in Ketchum for a rocking show of original music. Tickets are $10 and available at the door. The show starts at 10 p.m.
Sabina Dana Plasse: splasse@mtexpress.com
R.C. Hink and Lynn Toneri enjoy a turn on the dance floor at the 2010 Boutonnieres Ball at Carol’s Dollar Mountain Lodge. Photo by David N. Seelig
