February is a month dedicated to celebrating all things love, which makes it the perfect time of year for an extra-special activity with someone you care for. Whether you’re dressing up and hitting the town with your partner or trying something new with one of your pals, Valentine’s Day gives all of us the excuse to indulge a bit.
If you are looking for a few events and activities to add to your February calendar, Bergen County has plenty of options. Here are just a few of our favorites that we think you’ll love.
Hit the Dance Floor
Did you know that ballroom dancing has been linked to healthy aging? It’s true! Research on ballroom dancing and seniors has reflected benefits ranging from increased balance to decreased risk of cognitive challenges. But you don’t need scientific research to know that ballroom dancing is downright fun. Grab your favorite partner and set up a class or two at any local dance studio, such as Dance A Lot, which offers private lessons for adult beginners.
Enjoy a Wine Tasting
Nothing pairs with Valentine’s Day like a good wine. You can find plenty of tastings and events throughout the area during February, including the Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekends. Events are held at participating wineries throughout the state of New Jersey, which means you can make a quick trip or extend the festivities throughout the weekend. If you are still looking for a wine experience after Valentine’s Day has passed, consider attending the Barrel Sampling event hosted by Make Wine with Us, held on Feb. 16 as well as a number of other weekend dates throughout the spring.
Arrange Some Flowers
Flower-arranging classes are not only fun social events, but you also leave with a beautiful piece of art and perhaps a new hobby. Book your flower-arranging class ahead of time with your partner or group of friends at a number of florists throughout Bergen County. Even better, consider heading to neighboring Morris County (less than 40 minutes away from Teaneck) to enjoy a class at Fairview Farm & Flowers. It’s a lovely setting, and you’ll get expert instruction. And, you can bring your own bubbly beverages to enjoy while you work.
Get into the Kitchen
Whether you consider yourself an expert cook or a beginner, a culinary class is always a good idea. Find exceptional classes right in your backyard by taking a class at Ridgewood Culinary Studio (their soups and stews class at the end of the month looks fabulous), or invite a chef into your own kitchen for a private class through WannaBee Chef.
Enjoy Something Sweet
Get your sweet-tooth fix and also learn something new by taking a chocolate-making class at Matisse Chocolatier. Seniors can enjoy a class for a discounted rate of $20 per person, but be sure to book your class in advance. Want the sweets but without the extra work on your end? Valentine’s treats are everywhere in local bakeries and sweet shops. Pick up a few choices from different shops and have your own taste testing with your friends!
Upgrade Dinner and a Movie
Catch a new movie for Valentine’s Day, but splurge on a more elegant experience by heading to a theater that offers dinner and drinks instead of just the usual popcorn fare. Try IPIC Fort Lee to enjoy some delicious food and designer cocktails with your movie. Reclining seats and direct service right to your seat make this evening activity even more relaxing.
We hope your Valentine’s Day and month are full of reasons to celebrate all of your relationships! If you find that you are feeling a bit lonely this time of year, you may just need a group of peers and a stimulating calendar of activities. At Arbor Terrace Teaneck, our residents enjoy the vibrant retirement lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. Consider calling us to set up a tour or to schedule a time to participate in one of our social events this month. We’d love to meet you.
