Lake Charles is for lovers, especially on Valentine’s Day. If you’ve recently moved to this South Louisiana city or will be visiting on February 14^th, here are some ideas to help you show the special person in your life how much you care.

Getting an Early Start

If you and your significant other are morning people, there are a few ways you can start your celebration early. Planning to cook a nice meal together later? Head to the Lake Charles Farmers Market behind the Historic City Hall from 8am-12pm. In addition to fresh produce, you’ll find grains, fresh baked goods, herbs, gumbo, and more.

Speaking of gumbo, you can also add a Cajun twist to your Valentine’s Day by attending Lake Charles’ annual gumbo cook-off at the Civic Center from 8am-2pm. Over fifty teams of amateurs and professionals will compete with signature gumbo recipes in three categories (chicken and sausage, seafood, and wild game). Judging will take place at 11:30, and attendees will be able to sample from the gumbo pots immediately after that. Admission is just $5 per person.

Unforgettable Valentine’s Gifts

Make a sweet gesture by surprising your partner with a Valentine’s Day gift. It’s easy to find fresh flowers in Lake Charles thanks to our many local florists, including A Daisy a Day Flowers, Wendi’s Flower Cart, The Flower Shop, and Paradise Florist. If you’d rather give your partner (and yourself) the gift of a couples massage, you can book a 30, 60, or 90 minute session at 12 Hour Massage.

For an experiential gift that your significant other will never forget, book a carriage ride through Lake Charles’ historic downtown with J&R Carriage. Although J&R Carriage normally accepts walk-ups, it’s a good idea to call ahead for Valentine’s Day.

Romantic Dining in Lake Charles

There’s a wide range of romantic dining options here in Lake Charles. If you and your sweetheart are looking for somewhere laid back, try Luna Bar and Grill.  Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, fresh Cajun and California-inspired food, and a live performance by the Street Side Jazz Band.

If you’re looking for somewhere more upscale, it’s hard to surpass La Truffe Sauvage. This cozy French restaurant is tucked away on West Bayou Pines Drive, giving diners a peaceful setting in which to enjoy their meal. La Truffe Sauvage is offering a special prix fixe meal on Valentine’s Day and the Thursday and Friday immediately before the holiday. The Thursday and Friday dinners will be three courses, while the Saturday dinner will be four.

For a Valentine’s dinner with an incomparable view of the lake, book tickets on this year’s Valentine’s Dinner Cruise. The boat leaves from the Riverside Resort at 6 and will take you on a leisurely, three-hour cruise around Lake Charles as you and your partner enjoy a buffet style dinner and live music. It’s the kind of Valentine’s Day experience you can’t get just anywhere.