Lovebirds! Dim the lights, uncork the bubbly, slip into something a little more comfortable, and get ready to ~support your local small business community~ this Valentine’s Day. Bow chicka bow wow.
They say that love is blind. This year, we’re proposing a new adage: love is local. That is to say, love is all around you–and you can give it back! Whether you’re coupled up, single, or navigating the ins and outs of a life-altering situationship (we’ve all been there), there are plenty of ways to indulge in a bit of well-earned romance and pay it forward this Valentine’s Day.
From handcrafted gifts to one-of-a-kind experiences, this curated collection of small-batch goodies, celebrations, and gifts will make your heart sing. Whether you’re treating a loved one, your bestie, or yourself, there’s something here to make everyone feel special—and it all supports local makers, artisans, and shops around the neighborhood.
Shop Small: Gift Ideas
Looking for a truly special gift? Ravenswood’s shops have a vibrant selection of Valentine’s Day cards, work from local artists, and hundreds of handmade items. From cute and quirky to timeless and elegant, Ravenswood has the perfect gift for your Valentine.
For the Love of Stationery: Starshaped Press
4636 N Ravenswood Ave
Looking for a memorable card for your Valentine? Skip sifting through last year’s Hallmark reprints at Target and go retro with a handmade card from Starshaped Press. Starshaped is a traditional letterpress that’s operated in the heart of the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor for over 20 years!
Online shopping and local pick-up available. Explore the Starshaped collection at starshaped.com.
For the Love of Gifting: Hazel & Hazel Apparel
1825 & 1835 W Montrose Ave
Located just steps from one another, Hazel (1835 W Montrose Ave) and Hazel Apparel (1825 W Montrose Ave) are our favorite star-crossed shops in town. No matter the time of year, you’ll find something special for the person on your mind (even if that person is you!). For Valentine’s Day, you’ll find an incredible selection and apparel and fashion, jewelry, home décor and fragrance, specialty and classic candies, and gift cards made by local artists.
A limited selection of items are available for online order, with a much larger variety available in-store. Complimentary gift wrapping is available on in-store purchases. Free shipping for online orders over $100. To learn more, visit hazelchicago.com.
For the Love of Literature: Time and a half Books
4839 N Damen Ave
Is there anything more romantic than a bookstore? Three words for anyone who doesn’t know what I’m talking about: “You’ve Got Mail“. Fittingly, Time and a half Books will have a lot of goodies for Valentine’s Day. Great books, obviously–all kinds of love stories, poetry, and children’s books–but also the classic Valentine fare: delicious chocolates, beautiful cards, and bouquets by Mertle & Dot.
More at timeandahalfbooks.com — or spring for a meet-cute at their storefront on Damen Ave.
For the Love of Whimsy: Bad Luck Club
2114 W Montrose Ave
Are you a romantic weirdo seeking the perfect quirky gift for your perfect quirky partner (or friend, or neighbor, or enemy)? Bad Luck Club is the queer, artsy, colorful odds & ends purveyor of your dreams. They’ve got it all, from quirky art prints and tarot decks to lighters shaped like things that aren’t lighters.
Feeling lucky? You should. Check out their shop on Montrose Ave or browse online at badluckclubchicago.com!
For the Love of the Irish: Celtica Gifts
1940 W Montrose Ave
Kiss me, I’m Irish! Or get me a little something from Celtica Gifts. A standout choice for Valentine’s Day shoppers is the claddagh ring, depicting two hands clutching a heart complete with crown, epitomizes the expression of lasting love and eternal friendship. The heart symbolizes Love, the hands Friendship and the crown Fidelity. Available in men’s and women’s sizes! Shop this item
Can’t get enough? Visit celticagifts.com to shop more, or visit their storefront on Montrose Ave.
For the Love of Your Perfect Match: Bon Femmes
4917 N Damen Ave
Romance in a box: the gift of simple, meaningful strategies to kindle a spark and break up the routine in a pick-me-up package. Filled with conversation starters, fun date ideas, and ways to express love that will deepen a connection and spark intimacy. Includes 50 faux matchsticks with printed prompts. Shop this item
Fall in love with the selection at bonfemmes.com or check out the storefront on Damen Ave. For the lady-lovers: everything at Bon Femmes comes from women-owned brands!
For the Love of Accessorizing: Ponnopozz
1966 W Montrose Ave
Ponnopozz makes it hard to pick just one, but we went with our heart on this one. The Large Love Potion Hair Claw Clip is ready to bring a little Valentine magic to your hair. This dreamy bottle-shaped clip is crafted from plant based cellulose acetate and hand painted with glowing details. Shop this item
Check out more at ponnopozz.com or visit their storefront on Montrose Ave!
The Quickest Way to the Heart: Eats & Sweets
Foodies and romantics agree: Ravenswood is the perfect place to be hungry and in love. No matter your flavor, there’s something bound to delight your tastebuds in Ravenswood. Find the perfect fixins’ for a cozy night in or a romantic night out.
Give a Box of Love from Lucila’s Alfajores
Leave the box of factory assembled chocolates for the kids. Ravenswood’s favorite Lucila’s Alfajores is offering 10% OFF online orders for their decadent, handmade dulce de leche-filled Argentine pastries. Covered in dark and white chocolate, these unique sweets are perfect for any loved one (and a wonderful way to treat yourself too!). Nationwide shipping and curbside pickup from their Ravenswood Ave bakery are available.
Use promo code GRCCVDAY26 to save 10% now through 2/25/26. Shop their full collection and place your orders here.
Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe at Fireside Restaurant and Lounge
5739 N Ravenswood Ave
Looking for that classic, classy Valentine’s Day flavor? Look no further than Fireside Restaurant and Lounge. Picture this: crackling fireplace, cozy digs, and three mouthwatering prix fixe courses with your sweetheart. Treat your valentine to the only three words more romantic than “I love you”: Banana. Bread. Pudding. Make your reservations
Heart-Shaped Pizzas from Chicago’s Pizza
1919 W Montrose Ave
When da moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s amore… Holiday-themed pizzas from Chicago’s Pizza are a Ravenswood tradition and their heart-shaped pies are always the most anticipated. Perfect for Galentine’s Day parties, family celebrations, solo splurges, couples, throuples, and however else you slice it.
To get yours, order a large thin-crust or stuffed pizza and select the “Make it heart-shaped” option. Available from February 1-14, 2026. Order online at chicagos-pizza.com.
Heart-Shaped Ice Cream Cakes from Bartleby’s Ice Cream
1943 W Byron Ave
Share a sweet heart with your sweetheart! Bartleby’s heart-shaped ice cream cake is the perfect dessert for celebrating with the one(s) you love. Each cake includes:
- A personalized message written in homemade fudge (always vegan)
- Two layers of ice cream
- Two layers of a crumbled baked good
- Naturally pink strawberry-flavored whipped cream or vegan buttercream frosting
Available for local delivery or pickup! Pre-order by February 11 to get yours on time. Order online at bartlebysicecream.com
Valentine’s Day Collection from Amy’s Candy Bar
4704 N Damen Ave
Make your Valentine’s Day one to remember by gifting the Valentines Chocolate Collection from Amy’s Candy Bar (4704 N Damen Ave) to your special someone. The collection comes nestled in an elegant red gift box, tied off with a ribbon. Amy’s chocolates are handcrafted in their Ravenswood kitchen. They make a perfect gift for everyone from sweethearts and grandparents to teachers and colleagues.
Place your orders online at amyscandybar.com!
Valentine’s Day Events & Celebrations
Whether you’re looking to create something beautiful, enjoy something indulgent, or find an excuse to get closer, we’ve got you covered. Ravenswood small businesses are hosting a variety of unique, stimulating, and fun Valentine’s Day events.
View Events & Celebrations
2/1, Valentine’s Storytime at Time and a half Books
Join store-favorite storyteller Kathy at Time and a half Books on February 1st for a heartwarming reading of “The Love Letter” by Anika Aldamuy Denise. Afterwards, experiment with different art techniques to create your own love letter at a sweet Valentine making station. Please RSVP for children attending. No need to include adults in the RSVP count!
10-11am, 4839 N Damen Ave, FREE w/ RSVP More Info
2/6, Taste of Ravenswood
Surprise your Valentine with an evening of culinary delights! Sample dishes that highlight the range of flavors you can find around Ravenswood and sip drinks made right here in our beautiful neighborhood by talented brewers and distillers. Taste of Ravenswood is the one-night-a-year experience you won’t want to miss, complete with live music, live painting, and an unforgettable venue filled with vintage cars and neon signs. Talk about romance! Tickets go fast. Get yours today!
2/12, Sips & Sweets at Begyle Brewing w/ Katherine Anne Confections
I’ve tasted love, and y’know what? It tastes a lot like beer and chocolate. Treat your Valentine to an evening of delicious, carefully-brewed Begyle beer and artisanal chocolates from local legend Katherine Anne Confections! Each ticket includes an in-person guided tasting event with 5 beer and chocolate pairings. (Aren’t you glad I didn’t make a “romance is brewing” pun?)
7pm, 1800 W Cuyler Ave, $40 More Info
2/12, Valentine’s Marbling Workshop at Dovetail Brewery
Join in for a grounding, inspiring marbling workshop at Dovetail Brewery. Learn the meditative art of suminagashi! Bring your Valentine and make marbled designs using ink, breath, and water. Arrive curious and leave feeling inspired! Tickets include all materials and your first beer, plus 15% off your tab.
6:30-8pm, 1800 W Belle Plaine Ave, $96.15 More Info
2/12, Valentine’s Charcuterie Evening at Demo Brewing Co
Learn a new skill in Demo’s adorably cozy taproom! Class will start by practicing with a mini heart shaped board to build your confidence in building a board. You’ll get to learn techniques and insider tips to impress your friends and family later on! All supplies provided, including a reusable heart shaped board and one free 10 ounce beer or N/A drink option.
6:30-7:30pm, 1763 W Berteau Ave, $50/1 or $90/2 More Info
2/13, Galentine’s Day Portrait Painting Party at Bon Femmes
This local favorite event is back for a second year! Bring your BFF to bon femmes studio on Friday, February 13th for a hilarious and heartfelt evening of painting portraits with your best friend. Inspired by those viral videos where couples paint each other’s portraits, this event puts a playful twist on capturing the essence (and quirks!) of your BFF. All materials included, snacks and bevs provided, and no experience needed, bestie.
6-8pm, 4919 N Damen Ave, $40 per person More Info
2/13, Flower Bar at Bad Luck Club
For last-minute planners or anyone looking for an upgrade from those picked-over grocery store flowers, we’ve got you covered! Bad Luck Club is teaming up with the Floriography Fellows to bring a flower bar to the storefront. Whether you’re celebrating Galentine’s with your besties or want to create a one-of-a-kind gift for someone special, we’ve got the stems!
3:30pm, 2114 W Montrose Ave, FREE More Info
2/13, Galentine’s Day Paint Date at Color Me Mine North Center
Looking for a fun way to get creative with your gals? Fall in love with a new craft at Color Me Mine North Center! Cancel your other plans and book a spot at this Galentine’s Day Paint Party to make lasting memories in a joyful, colorful space with the ones who know you best. Bring your own bottle of wine or bubbly, paint a special piece, and spend time at the DIY bouquet station for a day of pure, feel-good fun.
5-7pm, 3849 N Lincoln Ave, $20 per person More Info
2/13-2/14, Brushes, Blushes, and Blossoms at Color Me Mine North Center
Slip away with your love for an intimate Valentine’s Night where sparks fly, creativity flows, and romance takes center stage. Side by side, paint ceramics that capture your connection—heart plates, mugs, frames, love plaques, heart boxes, or choose from hundreds of irresistible pieces. BYOB and savor your favorite wine or bubbly as laughter, flirtation, and art intertwine. Plus, design a custom bouquet for your Valentine—romantic, personal, and unforgettable.
3849 N Lincoln Ave, $39-$45 More Info
2/13-2/14, Valentine’s Celebration at VIN312 Winery
Still deciding how to celebrate Valentine’s Day? VIN312 Winery’s Valentine’s Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Experience offers a romantic alternative to crowded restaurants and prix-fixe menus. Enjoy thoughtfully paired tastings, live music by Joaquin Mauro, and an intimate winery setting hosted by the winemaker. Tickets are very limited! Wine club members get 15% off.
8pm, 4710 N Ravenswood Ave, $60 More Info
2/14, Free Valentine’s Day Latin Partner Dancing at Joel Hall Dancers & Center
Join Vicco Guerrero on Valentine’s Day for a Latin dance partner class at Joel Hall Dancers & Center! Bring your Valentine and sashay across the floor on a day filled with warmth and heat.
12-1pm, 4511 N Clark St, FREE w/ RSVP More Info
2/14, Galentine’s…But Make It Wellness at Muscle & Joint Physical Therapy
Grab your besties and celebrate Galentine’s Day with a fun, empowering morning focused on movement, recovery, and self-care hosted by Muscle & Joint Physical Therapy, Ladies Who Lift, Club Pilates North Center, and Kiehl’s Lincoln Park! Kick things off with a Strength+ Pilates circuit class, followed by Recovery & Injury assessments – because your body deserves all the love.
Kiehl’s Lincoln Park will provide exclusive giveaways and personalized skincare & advice to keep you glowing!
9:30-11am, 1442 W Sunnyside Ave More Info
2/14, Valentine’s Day Partner Yoga at Pistachio Yoga
Deepen your yoga poses and connections with others. You will be guided through several yoga techniques that’ll help you discover practicing yoga with a partner. This is a fun and very playful event – expect laughs and a lot of smiles!
4-5:30pm, 5215 N Damen Ave, $27-$37 More Info
2/14, Valentine’s Day Couples Doubles Tournament at Timber Lanes
Grab you partner and bowl! Join us for a fun non-competitive bowling tournament with a bagel brunch provided by Mimi’s on Lincoln. All bowlers are welcome — there will be prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners!
12-3pm, 1851 W Irving Park Rd More Info
2/14, Valentine’s Day Singles Mixer at Timber Lanes
Join us for a night of bowling and drinks . . . and new people. Timber Lanes is hosting a singles mixer party on Valentine’s Day. No pressure, no speed dating — just good vibes, easy conversation, and a great Valentine’s night out. Spots are limited. Grab a ticket and roll with it.
8-11pm, 1851 W Irving Park Rd More Info
2/14, Valentine’s Day Cupid Variation at The HIVE
Love is in the air, the perfect time to learn the classical ballet Cupid Variation! In this Pop Up class, you will learn the variation, enjoy some sparking beverage, and be provided a video of you becoming Cupid! If you purchase the pop up session pass that includes Jeff’s Intermediate Ballet class from 12-1pm, you will enjoy an additional $10 off of the total cost of this Pop Up Class!
1-2:30pm, 4706 N Ravenswood Ave, $45 More Info
2/14, Ballroom and Brew with Your Boo at The HIVE
Bring a friend, loved one, or yourself to THE HIVE Studio’s “Ballroom and Brew with your Boo” Valentine’s day class, where you will learn the Rumba with Hunter Adams. If you book for this fun and special evening, you and your loved one will receive a coupon to Cultivate, next door to the HIVE, where you can get a pre-event free bar food option and a Happy Hour priced drink!
*Purchase options to the event include a couple’s ticket for $50, or $30 for a single drop-in.*
5-6pm, 4706 N Ravenswood Ave, $30/1 or $50/2 More Info
2/14 & 2/15, Chicago Artisan Market at Artifact Events
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the Chicago Artisan Market returns to Ravenswood! Shop over 100 local artists and artisans at this two-floor pop-up market. Top local artisans in food, fashion, home decor, and art will help you find the perfect gift. Plus, you can enjoy coffee, tea, pastries, a full bar, and more!
11am-5pm, 4325 N Ravenswood Ave, $8 More Info
