Across Pasadena’s historic neighborhoods and along Altadena’s foothill corridors, restaurants are setting special menus, theaters are raising their curtains, florists are fielding last-minute requests and community venues are preparing for couples, families and friends looking to mark the occasion in their own way.
From candlelit dinners to live music, from outdoor strolls beneath the San Gabriel Mountains to hands-on workshops and cultural events, the options reflect the character and variety of the San Gabriel Valley’s two communities.
Valentine’s Day in Pasadena has long carried symbolic weight. In a city internationally associated with roses — and with the Tournament of Roses each New Year — the holiday feels less imported than simply extended. Altadena, with its quieter streets and sweeping mountain views, offers its own settings for celebrations both intimate and informal.
What follows is a comprehensive directory of Valentine’s Day activities taking place in Pasadena and Altadena today. Whether you are planning a night out, a daytime outing, or something closer to home, this guide is intended to help readers navigate the range of local events and experiences available.
We wish our readers throughout Pasadena and Altadena a warm and memorable St. Valentine’s Day.
Romantic Events and Experiences
Romance Along the Arroyo
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in vintage style as two of Pasadena’s most iconic historic homes welcome guests for an evening of romantic music, sparkling toasts, and sweet and savory treats. Explore the Fényes Mansion and the Gamble House, enjoying classical music, poetry, and special exhibitions. This event is for guests 21 and over. Saturday, February 14, 2026, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Pasadena Museum of History, 470 W. Walnut St., Pasadena, CA 91103, (626) 577-1660 & The Gamble House, 4 Westmoreland Pl, Pasadena, CA 91103, (626) 793-3334,
https://pasadenahistory.org/events/romance-along-the arroyo-a-valentines-day-event/
Fourteen Things to Love at The Huntington
Explore the vast grounds of The Huntington with a special self-guided tour highlighting 14 expressions of love found throughout the art collections and botanical gardens. This is a perfect outing for couples, friends, or a solo trip to appreciate art and nature. Available throughout Valentine’s week, including Saturday, February 14, 2026, during regular hours (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM).
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108, (626) 405-2100, https://www.huntington.org/valentines-day
ATTUNE 1.0 – Public Art Experience
A free, family-friendly public art installation in Altadena’s Loma Alta Park. The event features sound and light-based works that rotate through the evening. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy the immersive experience. Saturday, February 14, 2026, 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Loma Alta Park, 3330 N. Lincoln Ave, Altadena, CA 91001
Heart Strings Community Art Installation
A public art installation where visitors can write and display Valentine’s notes to loved ones. The messages become part of a growing display of connection and kindness in Douglas Alley. February 1 – 15, 2026, accessible anytime.
One Colorado, 41 Hugus Alley, Pasadena, CA 91103
Scottish Musical Valentine’s Day With Singer/Songwriter Jim Malcolm
An evening of traditional Scottish music with award-winning singer-songwriter Jim Malcolm. A unique and toe-tapping way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Saturday, February 14, 2026, 7:30 PM
Knox Presbyterian Church, 225 S. Hill Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91106
The Romantic Violin: Martin Chalifour
A recital by the LA Philharmonic’s principal concertmaster, Martin Chalifour, featuring a lyrical landscape of violin repertoire rooted in the romantic tradition. Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM and Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM
Sierra Madre Playhouse, 87 W. Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Passion + Mystery
The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra presents a Valentine’s weekend concert featuring pianist Fazıl Say performing Beethoven, Fauré, and Wolfgang. Saturday, February 14, 2026, 7:30 PM
Zipper Hall, The Colburn School, 200 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Amadeus
Peter Shaffer’s iconic play about the legendary rivalry between composers Salieri and Mozart. A dramatic and intoxicating exploration of ambition, envy, and genius. Performances on Valentine’s weekend, including Saturday, February 14, 2026.
Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena, CA 91101, (626) 356-7529, https://www.pasadenaplayhouse.org/
Valentine’s Dinners and Drink Specials
Valentine’s Day Dining
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Mexican-inspired specials at this family-owned Pasadena favorite, serving authentic dishes since 1977. Margaritas Mexican Restaurant is offering a holiday menu featuring a Surf & Turf Molcajete for two, Shrimp Tostada, Pasta a la Diabla, desserts including Chocolate Mexican Flan, and specialty cocktails such as the Romance Margarita. Specials range from $9.50 to $47.99 and are available alongside the regular menu. Saturday, February 14, 2026. Open at 10:00 a.m.
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, 155 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107, (626) 449-4193, https://margaritaspasadena.com/
Valentine’s Day Dining
Celebrate love at this historic Pasadena estate with a romantic dining experience. The Raymond 1886 offers a special Valentine’s Day brunch with live music and an à la carte menu, as well as a multi-course prix-fixe dinner in the evening. Saturday, February 14, 2026. Brunch: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Dinner: Seatings from 3:00 PM – 9:45 PM.
The Raymond 1886, 1250 S. Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105, (626) 441-3136, https://www.theraymond.com/
Valentine’s Weekend
Enjoy an unforgettable dining experience designed for romance. Alexander’s Steakhouse offers a choice between a chef-curated tasting menu or their full à la carte menu, featuring their finest cuts and seasonal dishes. February 13 – 15, 2026. Seatings at 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 8:00 PM.
Alexander’s Steakhouse Pasadena, 111 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, (626) 486-1111, https://alexanderssteakhouse.com/pasadena/
Valentine’s Day Dinner Show & Live Jazz
A lively Valentine’s celebration featuring a 2-course dinner and a live jazz performance by Liela Avila. The cozy, intimate setting is perfect for a romantic and entertaining evening. Saturday, February 14, 2026. Two seatings: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Hawg Heaven BBQ & Gastro Pub, 119 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91105, https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentines-day-dinner-sh ow-live-jazz-tickets-1981367085289
Valentine’s Day Brunch
A festive and bountiful brunch buffet in the beautiful Rose Hills Foundation Garden Court. The menu features farm-fresh breakfast favorites, seafood crudos, poke bowls, and a showstopping dessert display. Saturday, February 14, 2026.
Seatings at 11:00 AM (Sold Out) and 1:30 PM (Limited Availability).
The Huntington, 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108, (626) 405-2100, https://www.huntington.org/event/huntington-valentines-day-brunch
Valentine’s Afternoon Tea
Spend a refined afternoon at Chado Tea Room with one of their limited-time Afternoon Tea experiences, designed to celebrate romance and elegance. A charming Bridgerton-themed experience is also available throughout February. February 9 – 16, 2026, during regular hours.
Chado Tea Room, 79 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103, (626) 431-2832, https://www.chadotea.com/
Valentine’s Prix-Fixe
This Italian restaurant offers three curated Valentine’s menus crafted for romance and shared moments, including a prix-fixe dinner and featured cocktails. Valentine’s weekend, February 13-15, 2026.
Marina Pasadena, 841 Cordova Street, Pasadena, CA 91101
Valentine’s Day Celebration
An enchanting night of romance with gourmet Middle Eastern cuisine, live music, and dancing. The evening features international artist Arsham Baberian and the Ellite Band, along with spectacular surprise shows. Saturday, February 14, 2026.
Eden Garden Pasadena, 175 E. Holly Street, Pasadena, CA 91101
Hotels, Stays and Spa Packages
Valentine’s Spa Treatments
Express your love with rejuvenating spa treatments at the Chuan Spa. The spa offers therapeutic treatments, including dreamy massages with heated basalt stones in a private couple’s suite, as well as glow-boosting facials for a bit of self-love. February 12 – 17, 2026.
The Langham Huntington, Pasadena, 1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106, (626) 568-3900, https://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/pasadena/
Valentine’s Day Package
Hotel Dena offers a romantic escape with a special Valentine’s Day package. Their restaurant, Agents Only, features a curated prix-fixe dinner for two, including a choice of main course, chocolate fondue, and a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine. Valentine’s weekend, February 13-15, 2026.
Hotel Dena Pasadena, 303 Cordova Street, Pasadena, CA 91101, (626) 469-8100, https://www.hoteldena.com/
Sweets, Flowers and Gifts
Valentine’s Day Chocolates
A local chocolatier offering hand-picked chocolates in heart-shaped boxes for Valentine’s Day. A perfect classic gift for a sweetheart. Available throughout the Valentine’s season during store hours.
Mignon Chocolate, 6 E Holly St, Pasadena, CA 91103, (626) 796-7100
Assorted Chocolate Bon Bon Box
This bakery and cafe offers a special assorted chocolate bon bon box for Valentine’s Day, a decadent and romantic treat. Available during store hours leading up to Valentine’s Day.
ID-Eclair, 169 West Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91105
Valentine’s Day Candle Making
Create a unique and personal Valentine’s gift by making a custom-scented candle or diffuser. Certified Scent Stylists guide you through selecting from over 100 premium, non-toxic fragrances. By appointment, including Valentine’s weekend.
Sea Love, 28 E. Colorado Blvd, Old Pasadena, CA 91103, (626) 314-2884, https://www.sealove.com/pasadena
Valentine’s Day DIY
A fun, hands-on activity perfect for all ages. Create your own hair accessories, miniature trinkets, or even try carpet making and fluid bear painting. A special DIY for two is offered for Valentine’s. Special for two available February 13-15, 2026.
Lumee DIY (Arcade Lane), 696 E Colorado Blvd Ste 7, Pasadena, CA 91101
Family-Friendly and Daytime Ideas
Altadena Cars and Coffee
A casual and free morning event for the whole family. Enjoy a morning of community while looking at classic cars. Saturday, February 14, 2026, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Bulgarini Gelato, 749 East Altadena Drive, Altadena, CA 91001
Second Saturday Sketching
A free, drop-in program for all ages to sketch and create art inspired by the museum’s collections. The museum will also have surprise Valentine’s Day-themed art projects in the atrium from February 10-14. Saturday, February 14, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Norton Simon Museum, 411 W. Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105, (626) 449-6840, https://www.nortonsimon.org/
“Swipe Right on Love” Adoption Event
Find a new furry family member at this special adoption event. Thanks to a sponsorship from MetLife, all shelter animals will be available for a reduced adoption fee of $14. February 13 – 15, 2026.
Pasadena Humane, 361 S. Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105, (626) 792-7151, https://pasadenahumane.org/
Jazz Trio Performance
Enjoy a free afternoon of romantic jazz classics with the Eric Garcia & Steve Nelson trio. Saturday, February 14, 2026, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Linda Vista Branch Library, 1281 Bryant St, Pasadena, CA 91103, (626) 744-7278
