Treat Your Valentine to ‘An Evening of Lanterns’ at Nicholas Conservatory

In the mood to do something unique with your Valentine this year? You should check out the new, adults-only 'Evening of Lanterns' event at Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens in Rockford, Illinois.

Valentine's Day Panic

For a lot of people, myself included, Valentine’s Day usually sneaks up fast and you find yourself on February 12th thinking "Oh, crap!"

Going out to dinner and a movie on Valentine's Day is never something I will frown upon, but this year the holiday falls on a Saturday. I guarantee every restaurant in Rockford is going to be packed to the gills.

We could stay home, cook a nice dinner, and watch a movie, but I think this year calls for something more memorable.  That’s why my ears immediately perked up when I heard about the adults-only 'An Evening of Lanterns' event happening at Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens in Rockford on Friday, February 13.

'An Evening of Lanterns' Event

Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens is often considered one of the most beautiful spots in the Rockford area, and when you combine it with glowing lanterns, flowers, drinks, and appetizers, you've got the makings of a wonderful Valentine experience.

Nicholas Conservatory's 'An Evening of Lanterns' is technically a celebration of the Lunar New Year and includes:

• Traditional lion dance performances symbolizing good fortune, prosperity, and the welcoming of the new year.
• Sake tasting, heavy appetizers, and a cash bar that includes a special Lunar New Year-inspired cocktail.
• A variety of orchids and artwork available for purchase.
• An evening stroll through the sights and sounds of the Conservatory.

'An Evening of Lanterns' takes place on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m., and tickets need to be purchased in advance by February 11.

Other Lunar New Year Fun at Nicholas Conservatory

If an adults-only date night isn't in the cards, but something the whole family can enjoy together is, check out Nicholas At Night: Lunar New Year.

This all ages event is a celebration of the Year of the Horse featuring cultural sights, sounds, food, and activities for the whole family on Saturday, February 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens.

Tickets for Nicholas At Night: Lunar New Year can be purchased in advance, but will also be sold at the door until they reach capacity.