Valentine’s Day is more than just a reason to celebrate with your significant other, it is a season to share with those close to your heart: mother, brother, friend, mentor or even your mail carrier. It is an excuse to say the nice things you feel and think on a daily basis but don’t often stop to verbalize.

Photo courtesy of Nick Natasha Photoraphy

Here are some fun ideas to take Valentine’s Day beyond the hallmark greeting card to a true moment from the heart!Dining with friends

1.  Take your mentor or the person who has guided you and provided you with feedback out to lunch. Take the time to say thank you and tell them how they have influenced your life. We have many great restaurants that create the perfect setting.

2.  Snowshoe Hike at the Sterling Nature CenterInvite your close friends out for a breather with an outdoors stroll. The fresh, cool winter air will revitalize you and you’ll have the perfect opportunity to reminisce about all the wonderful experiences you’ve had while adding another one to the list. Consider taking advantage of free snowshoes rentals at Sterling Nature Center, or chose your own outdoors adventure. Remember to call ahead to check for conditions of trails!

3. Auburn Public Theater - ExteriorIt is easy to take people that have been with us forever for granted. Mom and Dad deserve to be told how much they mean to us, why not dinner and a show? Auburn’s theater scene is fantastic, and the Auburn Public Theater has more than enough to choose from this February to spend a special evening with mom and dad.

Cayuga County has some romance packages lined up for you to enjoy. Take the stress of planning out of the equation and book one of the following prepared packages:

Traditionalists Don't Fret!

Cayuga County has some romance packages lined up for you to enjoy. Take the stress of planning out of the equation and book one of the following prepared packages:Be Mine Package at 10 Fitch

10 Fitch's Anniversary Package

10 Fitch's Enchanting Evening Getaway

Hilton’s Romance Package

Inns of Aurora Romantic Getaway

Holiday Inn's Romance in the Finger LakesFebruary Special at 10 Fitch

...Or celebrate during the month of February with these special events at the Inns of Aurora.

*Top photo credit to Nick Natasha Photography.  Other photos courtesy of 10 Fitch, Sterling Nature Center and Auburn Public Theater.