Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and events are booking fast! This day is more than an excuse to take your date to a candle-lit dinner at their favorite restaurant. Whether you want a night of romance or fun and laughter, we’ve found the best local restaurants, venues and events for you and your loved one.

For a traditional date night, an incredible restaurant in McHenry County is Montarra Grill. This culinary oasis is always a winner with its cool, trendy vibe and diverse menu. Several small plate options are available, but the steaks and larger entrees will not disappoint. Once dinner is served, take your date to the AMC Lake in the Hills Theater to snuggle in a comfy, adjustable recliner. After the movie, Woodscreek Tavern or The Village Vitner is just down the road for an after-dinner glass of wine or beer, both made in-house.

A night full of laughter can be found at the Valentine’s Day Comedy Show in Crystal Lake on Saturday, February 17 beginning at 8 p.m. as comedians Rachel Bradley and Kevin Bozeman take the stage for a hilarious expo. For fun on the day of Valentine’s Day, start your date with a good old-fashioned game of bowling in Crystal Lake’s vintage alley, Metro Bowl. Do some window shopping in the variety of downtown shops as you make your way down the street until you reach da Baffone Cucina Italiana, Crystal Lake’s premier Italian restaurant. After dinner, from 8 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Lakeside Legacy Arts Park, Joe Diamond will be performing his 13^th Hour: Valentine’s Day Special Performance for an extra evening of romance.

For an out-of-the-ordinary Valentine’s Day date and to get your cultural juices flowing, head to McHenry for your Valentine’s night out. Voted one of the best Thai restaurants in McHenry County, the Green Peapod is a delicious way to impress your date. If your date happens to be on a Friday or Saturday, The Studio Art School offers painting classes from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. Different paintings are featured and taught to you and your partner in an easy step-by-step format. This is a great way to express love and creativity all in one night. Also, in McHenry on Valentine’s Day night is a dinner and craft beers pairing at Epic Deli you don’t want to miss!

Woodstock is a picturesque area that screams romance. Begin your romantic night at a delicious restaurant with homemade Mexican food and creative margaritas in a cozy space. Mixteca may not appear to be much on the outside, but the inside gives more than a charming ambiance. After dinner, browse the stores of Woodstock Square which offers a historic piazza with classical music.

If you are looking for a romantic setting or even a more laid-back and cozy atmosphere, we have found some great local destinations for you! From traditional date nights to a cultural night on the town, Valentine’s Day near McHenry County is full of romance. View our conveniently located homes throughout McHenry, Williams Bay,  Richmond and Poplar Grove at www.gerstadbuilders.com/communities.