Sound the alarm, folks, because this Friday is the long-awaited Valentine’s Day. Whether you spend the holiday going on a romantic date with your significant other, binge-watching rom coms with your best friends or maybe taking yourself out on a nice date, Arcade has got you covered. Make the most of Valentine’s Day with this list of uniquely New Orleans ways to celebrate.

Parades 

It’s Mardi Gras season, which means parades are around every corner. If you and your date enjoy high-energy excursions and don’t mind big crowds, this is the place to go. With only a week to go before Mardi Gras, parades are in full swing. Some of the parades on Valentine’s Day this year include Krewe of Cork at 3 p.m. and Krewe of Cleopatra at 6:30 p.m. 

Take a carriage ride in the French Quarter

Perhaps you are looking for a more classic — and we mean really classic — way to spend the holiday. Travel in ease and see the French Quarter like never before with the help of a mule-drawn carriage. Valentine’s Day reservations get booked up quickly, but no need to fear. You can book online or pick up a carriage on a first-come-first-served basis. This French Quarter Mule Tour is offered by Royal Carriages located right outside the Jackson Square gate, from 8 a.m. to midnight. This tour costs $40 per person. 

Have a romantic dinner 

New Orleans is the perfect destination for a romantic dinner. There is an abundance of restaurants with both too much food and too many calories to count, but these do not matter for this memorable occasion with your lovebug. Dress to impress, and go to Commander’s Palace for Creole upscale dining or attend some of the finest Italian restaurants: Domenica, Sofia NOLA or Gianna Restaurant. 

Get a sweet treat 

End this romantic day with a sweet taste of NOLA. Your soulmate will not be disappointed with this charming gesture. Whether it be a SnoBall from Hansen’s Sno Bliz or beignets from Café du Monde in the French Quarter,  you really cannot go wrong. If these two famous NOLA treats are not for you or your sweetheart, grab a donut on the go from District Donuts or any seasonal flavor from Creole Creamery.