Get ready to impress Cupid from Groningen this Valentine’s Day! Whether you’re coupled up or flying solo, Groningen has got your back with different activities ready to make your heart flutter! From a romantic concert to Instagram-worthy dining spots, we’ve curated a (tiny) guide to help you celebrate love in style. But hurry, some of these activities are selling out fast!
- Candlelight Valentine’s Concert, Martinikerk
The Candlelight concerts are created by Fever to make classical music more accessible to people in a unique way. There have been many candlelight concerts already around the country, and last year the first one was organised in the Martinikerk with music by Hans Zimmer and Vivaldi, which was a great success. During Christmas, they continued the concerts with the Nutcracker and of course…Christmas carols. Besides classical music, there have also been pop music themes, like ABBA and Queen, at different other locations like DOT near the city beach. Local musicians play at all of these concerts. One thing, however, is always the same: the whole stage is lit with hundreds of candles, adding to the magical atmosphere.
For Valentine’s Day, there will be a special candlelight concert in the Martinikerk, which will take place on the 16th of February. The most romantic songs will be played by the local string quartet during this concert. Tickets can be bought on the website of Fever. All their other concerts are also available here, all with a candlelit stage, in case a repertoire of romantic songs isn’t enough.
- Valentine’s Dinner at Noor, Hoogkerk
Restaurant Noor, in Hoogkerk, has made quite a name for itself, despite only being open since 2022 at this location. However, Noor is, of course, not your ordinary restaurant, having a Michelin star and delivering a unique dinner experience with interesting flavour combinations created by passionate chefs. Despite this fancy disposition – and a price tag to match – Marleen Brouwer, owner and chef at Noor, is very hospitable.
“At Noor, everyone is welcome. We try to make you feel at home in our little chapel with a friendly staff and relaxed vibes,” Brouwer told The Northern Times.
And don’t worry about dress stress either, Brouwer says “We always say the dress choice is for the guest, wear whatever you’re comfortable in. As long as you’re wearing clothes, you’re welcome!”
If you want to do something really special for your lover on Valentine’s, Noor is the special place to be in. They created a special Valentine’s arrangement for 2, to celebrate your special moments together and create new ones, including champagne, a 4-course menu, a wine arrangement and more for €350 that can be booked here (through a waiting list at the time of writing). Of course, if you don’t have a date but still want to try their food, you can always book a table for another night or any other special occasion.
- Chocolate Fondue at Huis de Beurs
Huis De Beurs, on the corner of the Vismarkt, is a staple in Groningen with its French terrace and vintage look. If you are looking for something different than dinner for you and your valentine, Huis de Beurs has you covered… in chocolate! On the 14th of February, they will serve an arrangement of sweet snacks and fresh fruit with a chocolate fondue to dip it in.
The chocolate fondue is €29.50 for 2 people and can be booked on the website of Huis de Beurs by mentioning ‘Valentine’ when booking a table.
- Cocktails at NOK Skybar
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NOK Skybar, located in the Forum, is known for its amazing view but also, for its great cocktails and dinner. Especially for Valentine’s Day, they made a few unique all-day Valentine’s cocktails. The Clover Club cocktail, consisting of Bombay sapphire gin, raspberry syrup and lime juice, and the Clover Club cocktail with oyster, adding an oyster leaf and avocado. Besides these cocktails, they also have a special ‘aphrodisiacs’ menu with a choice of 4 or 5 courses. The normal cocktails are also still available and can be ordered with or without a date.
Booking a table is not necessary, but is recommended for the Valentine’s dinner. This can be done on the website of Nok.
