🗓️ Thursday, February 12 Who let Cupid in? I don’t know what it is, but everybody is really feeling the love in the Ozarks this year. In addition to the loads of great date-night-worthy events happening around the region, there are also countless romantic multi-course dinners for you and your other half and Galentine’s Day events for you and your besties. Scroll down or click through to the Datebook blog for all the fun community events, check out our guide to Valentine’s Day fun around town.
If you haven’t gotten a little something special for your someone special yet, you might find sweet inspiration by reading our Q&A with Bon Bon’s Candy House owner Bonnie Nolen. And don’t forget: Time is running out to enter for a chance to win our Best of 417 Dining Bundle. Entries close February 18, and the winner gets gift cards from Best of 417 winning restaurants and a basket of kitchen goodies—all valued at more than $1,000. Think of all the dates nights and friend hangs you can fund with that major award!
About the Writer I’m Katie Pollock Estes, and I’m 417’s Editorial Director. I’ve been here 20 years, spending my workdays hunting for the best things to do in the Ozarks—and working with writers to share it all with you. Got a tip? Email me your story ideas!
This vintage and antique boutique in Bolivar is only open one weekend each month, featuring all the best finds the owner has snagged recently. This month, look for antique rugs, tons of art, hand-painted vases and even unique items like a fireplace surround. Add to your calendar.
This play, performed by the Ozarks Lyric Opera, centers around an opera legend named Maria Callas. It takes place in the 1970s, when Callas is teaching a master class at Julliard and reflecting on her life and career. Add to your calendar.
Part of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s classical series, this concert features Requiem by Gabriel Fauré, O Virtus Sapientiae by Hildegard von Bingen and Symphonie Mathis der Maler by Paul Hindemith. For this event, the Springfield Symphony Orchestra is joined on stage by soprano Tara Stafford-Spyres and bass Jonathan Stins, who provide vocals. Add to your calendar.
A MESSAGE FROM RICK'S AUTOMOTIVE
Your Trusted Auto Repair Team
From free pickup and delivery to shuttle rides, loaner cars and flexible financing Rick’s Automotive is the team that gets you there, hassle-free. Same family, same trust, since 1980.
Bring your favorite gals to SPLIT for a five-course dinner described as “girl dinner, but elevated,” games, cocktails, permanent jewelry and more. Oh, and per the event’s name, be sure to wear your most comfy mumu.
This fun event is a great one for couples who love to cook together—or who want to learn how. Instructors teach guests how to make potato gnocchi in this chef-led, hands-on class. Afterward, sit down for a three-course meal with wine pairings. This event is for ages 21 and older. Add to your calendar.
FROM OUR PARTNERS
Meet Mermaids at Wonders of Wildlife This March
Families visiting Wonders of Wildlife can watch mermaids perform underwater, inspiring children while highlighting the importance of ocean conservation.
Best of 417 Party Bus 2026 The FourOneSeven team visits the Aviary Cafe as party of the 2026 Best of 417 Party Bus Tour presented by SGC Food Service. Check out more pictures from the event.
