The Best Valentine’s Day Events in Toronto & GTA This Year (2026)

It is that time of year again. The time when the city turns fifty shades of pink, chocolate prices suddenly skyrocket, and you feel that specific pressure to find something—anything—better than a drugstore card. Whether you are happily partnered, navigating a “situationship,” or just here for the half-priced candy on February 15th, Valentine’s Day Toronto 2026 is shaping up to be a busy one. And honestly? It’s looking pretty good.

If you are currently panic-scrolling and wondering where to go for Valentine’s Day in Toronto, the answer isn’t just “a restaurant.” It’s markets, aquariums, and building LEGOs while drinking artisan coffee. I’ve done the heavy lifting and dug through the calendars to find the confirmed pop-ups that are actually worth your time.

The Pop-Up Markets Worth Braving the Cold For

Love Local: Valentine’s Market

Feb 7 – Feb 8 | Dufferin Mall

If you are the type who leaves gift shopping until the absolute last minute, this is your save. Taking over the Dufferin Mall, this pop-up is packed with local artisans selling jewelry, candles, and those specific “I saw this and thought of you” gifts. And the best part is the price of admission. It is one of the best free Valentine’s events in Toronto 2026 if you just want to browse without an entry fee. You can find more details on the Love Local Market Eventbrite page.

Heart Strings Valentine’s Market

Feb 8 | The Parkdale Hall

The Toronto Sunday Market crew knows how to throw a good event. This one is specifically curated for the romantic holiday, featuring handmade goods that don’t look like you bought them at a gas station. It is only running for one day, so do not sleep in. Check out the Heart Strings Valentine’s Market listings to see the vendor list.

Valentine’s Weekend Market by Maplee

Feb 14 – Feb 16 | Arta Gallery, Distillery District

The Distillery District is basically the rom-com movie set of Toronto, so of course, there is a market here. Hosted by Maplee, this three-day event starts right on Valentine’s Day. It is indoors (thank goodness), so you can shop for Canadian-made lifestyle goods without freezing. It is a solid stop if you are already in the area for dinner. You can register for free entry at the Maplee Market page.

Novotel Toronto Centre Valentine’s Pop-Up

Feb 13 – Feb 14 | Novotel Toronto Centre Lobby

This one is a bit of a hidden gem. The Novotel lobby is hosting a rotating series of vendors every single day leading up to the 14th. One day it is dog treats, the next it is luxury candles. It is perfect if you work downtown and need to grab something unique on your lunch break. See the full daily vendor schedule here.

Plus, Novotel Toronto Centre is hosting a comedy showcase that’s perfect if you want to skip the “stiff dinner” vibe.

Unique Date Ideas That Aren’t Just Dinner

LEGO® Botanicals Bloom Bar

Feb 6 – Feb 7 | Pilot Coffee Roasters, Ossington

Okay, if you are asking what are some unique date ideas in Toronto, this is it. You get to build those viral LEGO flowers while sipping specialty coffee. It is interactive, it is cute, and you do not have to worry about the flowers dying in three days. It is likely to hit capacity fast, so check the LEGO Bloom Bar pop-up details before you go.

Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special

@p.tishch Absolutely amazing and fulfilling experience that every couple needs on their upcoming Valentine's Day🤍 #candlelightconcert @Fever @candlelight.concerts #candlelight #concerts #valentinesday #valentinesdaydate #datenightideas #torontodateideas ♬ original sound – Polina | Toronto

Feb 13 – Feb 14 | Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto

There is something undeniably romantic about listening to “Moon River” surrounded by thousands of LED candles. It is quiet, intimate, and a nice break from the loud bars. If you are looking for Valentine’s events in Toronto 2026 tickets that won’t break the bank but feel expensive, this is a good bet. Select your seats at the Candlelight Concerts Fever page.

Parties, Dining & The “Cool” Stuff

ROM After Dark: Valentines

Feb 14 | Royal Ontario Museum

If you want to party in a museum, this is it. ROM Valentine’s Day events are legendary because where else can you drink cocktails next to a dinosaur? This is a 19+ event with DJs, live performances, and food stations scattered throughout the galleries. It sells out every year. You can snag your ROM After Dark tickets here.

Ripley’s Aquarium: Deep Sea Soiree

Feb 13 | Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Technically happening the night before Valentine’s Day (which is great if you want to avoid the Saturday rush), this after-hours event features live jazz and burlesque. It is dark, moody, and illuminated by shark tanks. Definitely a vibe. Get your Deep Sea Soiree tickets early because they disappear fast.

Valentine’s Week at BarChef

Feb 9 – Feb 15 | BarChef

When people ask about Valentine’s Day Toronto restaurants that actually impress, BarChef is usually top of the list. They are doing a special week-long tasting menu for $79, but if you go on the big weekend (Feb 13/14), they switch to a luxe $175 Gala Dinner. Expect fog, dry ice, and cocktails that look like science experiments. Book your table via BarChef’s reservation page.

Hymus Entertainment Valentine’s Day Celebration

Feb 14 | The Estate Banquet Centre, Scarborough

If you want the full dinner-and-dancing package without hopping between venues, this banquet is the move. It is old school in the best way—live entertainment, a sit-down meal, and a dance floor. Grab your Gala tickets on Eventbrite.

“Love Is in the Air” Dinner & Dance

Feb 14 | Old Mill Toronto

The Old Mill is a classic for a reason. This event features a 5-course tasting menu and live vocal performances in a historic setting. It feels very Bridgerton meets Toronto. It is perfect if you want to dress up and pretend you are royalty for a night. View the menu and book at the Old Mill Toronto events page.

Worth the Drive: Valentine’s Events in The GTA

Square One Valentine’s Day Market

Feb 13 – Feb 16 | Square One Shopping Centre, Mississauga

If you are in the west end, Square One is hosting a massive four-day market on Level 2 (near H&M). It is not just about shopping; they have local vendors like Blossom Moments for fresh bouquets and Cadeau D’Amour for those fancy handcrafted chocolates. Plus, Alley Press is doing a complimentary newspaper-style photo op, which is basically catnip for your Instagram feed. Check out the Square One event schedule.

Valentine’s Comedy Night at Stonehooker

Feb 14 | Stonehooker Brewing Company, Mississauga

Let’s be real: sometimes the most romantic thing you can do is just laugh until beer comes out of your nose. Stonehooker Brewery is hosting a “Comedy Nuggets” showcase. It is unpretentious, there is great craft beer, and it is way less pressure than a silent 5-course dinner. Grab tickets for the Valentine’s Comedy Show here.

Vaughan Valentine’s Day Date Night

Feb 14 | Dave & Buster’s, Vaughan

If your love language is “beating your partner at Mario Kart,” head to Vaughan. This event is a full package: you get an unlimited gaming card, a comedy show, and a DJ dance party all in one night. It is loud, chaotic, and incredibly fun. Perfect for couples who refuse to grow up. Book your Date Night package.

2nd Annual Oakville Valentine’s & Galentine’s Market

Feb 8 | The Hilton Garden Inn, Oakville

Whether you are shopping for your partner or your best friend, this market has you covered. It is running the Sunday before Valentine’s Day, making it the perfect low-stakes outing to grab some local treats. Get the details on the Oakville Market page.

Lumen Events Valentine’s Pop-Up

Feb 7 | 1775 Sismet Rd, Mississauga

Lumen Events is running a “curated” market experience that focuses on elevated gifts rather than just generic trinkets. It is a one-day-only affair happening the weekend before Valentine’s Day, which is smart—you can secure the goods early and avoid the panic. Find out more at the Lumen Events listings.

Candlelight Markham: Valentine’s Day Special

Feb 13 | Toronto Marriott Markham

If you live in Markham or Richmond Hill and do not want to trek downtown, the Candlelight series is coming to you. They are taking over the Marriott for a night of classical romance under the glow of thousands of candles. It is elegant, local, and stress-free. Book your Candlelight Markham tickets.

Valentine’s Day: Grooves and Games

Feb 13 | Hope Endoors Community Services, Brampton

This is one of the most heartwarming events on the list. Designed as an inclusive space (especially for neurodiverse youth and young adults), this night features a DJ, tons of board games, video game stations, and a “chill zone” for when things get too loud. It is all about genuine connection and fun. Register for Grooves and Games here.

Candlelight: Classical Romance in Oakville

Feb 13 | Knox Presbyterian Church, Oakville

West-enders, you are not left out. The Candlelight series is also hitting Oakville on the 13th. The acoustics in the church are fantastic for string quartets, and the vibe is perfect for a romantic pre-Valentine’s date. Snag your seats at the Candlelight Oakville page.

Valentine’s Day Party & Dinner

Feb 14 | Our Lady of Fatima Hall, Brampton

If you want a community feel with good food, this dinner and dance in Brampton is a solid choice. It is a “steak a casa” dinner followed by dancing—a classic Portuguese-style celebration that welcomes everyone. It’s unpretentious, filling, and fun. Check out the Dinner & Dance details.

Burlington Family Day Market & Kids Expo

Feb 14 | Burlington

Okay, so technically this is a “Family Day” market, but it lands right on Valentine’s Day Saturday. If you are celebrating with the whole family (kids included), this is the place to be. You can shop for gifts while the kids check out the business expo. It’s a win-win. Find it on Eventbrite.

Need more ideas for the big day?

I’ve got you covered with even more options, from skating trails to hidden speakeasies. Check out 25+ Things to Do This Valentine’s Day in Toronto 2026.

Related Reads:

• 25+ Things to Do This Valentine’s Day in Toronto 2026
• Romantic Things To Do This Valentine’s in Toronto (2026)
• 15 Unique Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day in Toronto (Beyond Dinner and a Movie)