01/27/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/27/2026 21:58
Where Love Meets the Lake: Valentine's Day at Navy Pier
CHICAGO- Cupid has his arrow set onNavy Pier as Chicago's premiere waterfront destination prepares to dazzle guests this Valentine's Day. Culminating in the Pier's annual Valentine's-themed fireworks display on Saturday, February 14, Navy Pier and its partners are spreading the love all month long with intimate events, romantic lake escapes, and chef-curated experiences.
Valentine's-Themed Fireworks
In celebration of Valentine's Day, Navy Pier will illuminate the skyline with a specially themed edition of its award-winning fireworks. The free public spectacular will take place at 9 p.m. on Saturday, February 14. Fireworks will be launched from the Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park, offering great viewing vistas all along the Pier's South Dock.
Romantic Views from the Centennial Wheel
Soaring to heights of nearly 200 feet, Navy Pier's magnificent Centennial Wheel offers unparalleled, 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan year-round from the comfort of enclosed gondolas. A romantic ride on the Centennial Wheel, lighted in the hues of Valentine's Day, is the perfect exclamation mark on any visit to the Pier. For guests looking for a private, romantic excursion on the Centennial Wheel, the VIP Gondola rental is the perfect way to spend quality time with your loved one this Valentine's Day.
Tunnel of Love
The illuminated Tunnel of Love stretches along Navy Pier's South Dock and sets a romantic scene for all guests this Valentine's Day. Adorned with giant hearts and twinkling diamonds, this sweet photo-op is the perfect backdrop for Instagram-able moments and popping the big question. The Tunnel of Love is free and open to the public.
Cozy Competition and Lakefront Love Lodge Experiences at Harry Caray's Tavern
Harry Caray's Tavern is offering three distinct Valentine's Day experiences that are sure to satisfy all guests' celebrations of love. Revelers can enjoy the Indoor Lakefront Lodge Package, bringing the charm of a cozy winter cabin without having to brave the chilly Chicago air, or embrace seasonal activities with the Private Igloo and Curling Package or Private Igloo and Patio Games Package, each set in a heated igloo with a private firepit. All three experiences include a complimentary bottle of Prosecco and access to Harry's regular menu, Valentine's Day specials, and full bar. Guests can add a sweet touch with a DIY S'mores dessert or go all out with the show-stopping Breaking Ball Dessert - a perfect way to "break" the ice or even hide a ring if a proposal is on the agenda. There will be two evening seating options, either 5-7 pm or 7:30-9:30 pm, available on Saturday, February 14.
Cupid-inspired City Cruises
Couples can revel in an elegant evening of romance with City Cruises Chicago Valentine's Dinner Cruises. These unparalleled dining experiences are complete with delicious cocktails, a chef-prepared buffet, and top-notch service, all set against the dazzling backdrop of Lake Michigan. A DJ sets the mood while celebrants soak in the Chicago skyline and awe-inspiring sights, including the Navy Pier Valentine's fireworks, from an intimate, climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. Valentine's Dinner Cruises, which includes both the Premier or Signature Dinner Cruise offerings, will set sail on Friday, February 13, and Saturday, February 14.
Southern Comfort at Chef Art Smith's Reunion
Internationally celebrated celebrity chef Art Smith has created a Valentine's Day menu worthy of his favorite holiday. Included on the Reunion Valentine's Day pre-fixe menu is a welcome flute of Ruffino Prosecco, choice of either Crab Cake or Deviled Eggs for the first course, offerings of either Scallops in Herb Dressing with Couscous and Charred Carrots, Chef Art Smith's Famous Fried Chicken or Steak Frites, followed by the decadent Love Goddess Chocolate Cake. Reunion will also offer an à la carte menu that features the staples of the pre-fixe menu and will also offer the Raspberry Romance cocktail.
Date Night at the Theater
Celebrate this season of love with a night out at the world-renowned Chicago Shakespeare Theater. From February 10 through March 8, the iconic Royal Shakespeare Company will be gracing the stage for a moving performance of 'Hamnet.' The performance, which follows William Shakespeare's journey through romance and profound loss, is a love letter to passion, birth, grief, and the magic of nature. Tickets are available for purchase here.
"Love on the Lake" at Sable Hotel
Back by popular demand, the Sable Hotel at Navy Pier is celebrating love on Valentine's Day, and beyond, with its "Love on the Lake" package. The perfect touch to an unforgettable stay, the "Love on the Lake" Romance Package fans the flame with champagne and chocolate covered strawberries for two, an in-room scattering of faux rose petals, and personalized card to commemorate the occasion. With floor-to-ceiling windows in every guest room, Sable offers the ultimate private perch for enjoying the Navy Pier Valentine's fireworks. Book your romantic getaway here.
Latin Passion at Lirica
Lirica Executive Chef Ricky Amaya is serving up a prix fixe Valentine's Day menu brimming with rich Latin flavors. The three-course culinary celebration begins with a heart-warming Wild Mushroom and Ricotta Cheese Crostini, as well as a delightful Pear and Prosciutto Salad. Guests' choice of three seasonal entrees includes butter-poached Maine lobster accompanied by a beef medallion, a succulent Beef Wellington, seasonal Vegetable Lasagna, or Smoked Rosemary Lamb Chop. Finish off your meal on a sweet note with the quintessentially Valentine's Day, Heart-Shaped Wild Berry Short Cake. The menu will be available for dinner Friday, February 13 through Sunday, February 15 in Lirica's warm but elevated main dining room, located on the first floor of the Sable Hotel.
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Note: All activities and dates are subject to change.
About Navy Pier
Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is the most visited destination in the Midwest, stretching more than six city blocks and welcoming nearly 9 million annual guests. Originally opened in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, this Chicago landmark showcases over 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, retail shops, sightseeing and dining cruise boats, exposition facilities, and more. The Pier celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016 with the unveiling of the Centennial Wheel, Polk Bros Park, and Peoples Energy Welcome Pavilion. Today, Navy Pier continues to usher in its second century with ongoing redevelopment efforts including the 223-room Sable hotel, the all-transient Navy Pier Marina, and thrilling new attractions such as Flyover Chicago. The Pier is proud to present free programming designed to inspire and engage communities across the city and globe, including the #1 Fireworks display in the nation. For more information, visit NavyPier.org.