Find romance in February throughout the Hudson Valley

So many ways to say 'I Love You’ in Orange County Goshen - Chocolate and flowers are terrific, but there are more wonderful ways to impress your sweetheart this February, and they don’t have to cost lots of money. There are so many special happenings to choose from in Orange County that you’ll want to make your Valentine’s celebration a month-long event. • Make a date for Sunday Champagne Brunch. Two of the most notable include those at The Thayer Hotel, West Point and at Bear Mountain’s Overlook Lodge. Afterward, stroll (hand-in-hand, of course) through the galleries at the West Point Museum or walk the path around Hessian Lake. (www.thethayerhotel.com; www.visitbearmountain.com). • Take your honey for a salsa lesson at the Knight’s Inn Copa Lounge, then dance the night away. In case you get hooked, this is a regular Friday night event. (www.knightsinn-newburgh.com) If you’re not a dancer, pick up some tickets for “Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance” performance on March 5 at Eisenhower Hall. It’s a Celtic love story full of energy that’s sure to stir up some passion. (www.ikehall.com). • Put some humor into your Valentine’s Day celebration at the Lycian Centre’s feature musical, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change.” A pre-show buffet luncheon will also be available. (www.lyciancentre.com) Before the show, spend time browsing shops in the Sugar Loaf Art and Crafts Village; perhaps you’ll find a great memento of the day, maybe even a special ring? (www.sugarloafnewyork.com). • Sip some wine together and enjoy the live entertainment in the tree house at Palaia Vineyards. In addition to their regular delectables, they’ll have a chocolate fountain for Valentine’s Weekend. (www.palaiavineyards.com) Or, savor a cordial at the Warwick Valley Winery. Surprise your sweetie with reservations to one of their Introductory Distillery Demonstrations including luncheon and tasting. This presentation by an award-winning Master Distiller will be offered several times during the month of February. (www.wvwinery.com). • Plan a very romantic getaway at the area’s newest boutique hotel at Catlin Gardens. Strawberries, champagne and a pre-fixe dinner in their restaurant are included in their Valentine’s package. (www.catlingardens.com) If you can’t manage an overnight, experiencing a new restaurant is always a treat. Plan several culinary excursions during the “Winter Dining in the Wonderful Warwick Valley” event from Feb. 22 to March 8. (www.winterdininginwarwick.homestead.com). For more ideas visit the extensive events calendar at www.OrangeTourism.org or call the Orange County Tourism office at 615-3860.