Hearts Afire Weekend Puts Loveland at the Epicenter of Valentine Celebration

It’s Valentine season and that means the City of Loveland’s Hearts Afire Weekend is not far off. If our town’s name doesn’t stake our claim to the season of love, the City’s Hearts Afire Weekend makes historic downtown Loveland the epicenter of Valentines celebration. This is the 5^th year for the festival, which takes place Friday, Feb. 13 - Sunday, Feb. 15^th.

Each year, the lineup of events and displays gets more ambitious with activities for all ages and interests. As in years past, the theme of the 2026 Hearts Afire Weekend will be “fire and ice,” with attractions ranging from ice sculptures to fire dancers, speed dating, a puppy kissing booth, a petting zoo, art and craft classes, and wedding vow renewals by Loveland Mayor Kathy Bailey.

The concept of a Valentine-themed festival was born from the City’s Special Events Committee, according to Assistant to the City Manager Misty Clark. “Hearts Afire Weekend is about showcasing Loveland in a way [that] brings people together during the winter months. Our goal is to drive foot traffic to our local businesses while creating activities that residents and visitors can enjoy,” said Clark, who has had a lead role in planning the festival since its inception.

In the coming days, Loveland Daily News will share our Top Ten picks for Hearts Afire Weekend attractions, as well as showcasing specific events. For a complete list of events and attractions, go to the Hearts Afire event page on the City of Loveland’s website.