While as adults we generally understand the romantic, confections cards and candles 
part of Valentine’s Day, finding Valentine's Day activities that the whole family can share isn't always so easy. No kid in their right mind will question getting candy, figuring out how to make a heart-shaped construction paper mailbox, explaining why you give every kid in the class a card, or answering the mysterious, “What’s a Valentine?” can be more tricky and sometimes awkward (and don't forget those nasty paper cuts!). Show your little sweethearts the many ways to spread the love with these picks for a bouquet of Valentine’s fun.
Portland Waldorf School: Valentine’s Day Tea Party
Bring your valentines aged 2-6 for a puppet show and a morning of play, crafts and refreshment. February 12th, 10:00 am -11:30 am. Free. 503-654-2200 extension 207.
2300 Southeast Harrison Street
Milwaukie, Or
Oregon Zoo: Valentine’s Day Animal Enrichment
Bring your own little animals and watch the zoo residents get holiday treats and enrichment activities. Feb. 14th starting with lorikeets at 11:00 am, lions at 12:30 pm and sea otters at 2:30 pm. Free with zoo admission. 503-226-1561.
4001 Southwest Canyon Road
Portland, Or
Lakeshore Learning Crafts: Valentine Bouquet Making
This DIY store believes that getting creative is the greatest way to learn. On February 12th, your small crafters can make a Valentine's Day bouquet any time between 11:00am - 3:00 pm. Ages 3 and older, please. Free. 503-620-9888.
6901 SW 65th Avenue
Lake Oswego, Or
AC Gilbert’s Discovery Village: Mommy & Me Valentine Tea
Playing and learning go hand in hand as you enjoy a tea party and a craft on February 14th from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm. $5 per family, discount for members, pre-registration is requested. 503-371-3631.
116 Marion Street Northeast
Salem, Or
Family Party at Play Boutique
everyone enjoys music, crafts, cupcakes, snacks, a Bounce and Play and even a family photo booth! February 14th from 11:30 am -12:30 pm. Free to members, $10 for general entry. 503-675-PLAY (7529).
464 First Street
Lake Oswego, Or
Sellwood Community Center: Messy Art
Exclusively for ages 18-36 months, only 12 spots are available for free Valentine’s Day Messy First-come, first-served! February 14th from 12:30-1:00 p.m. Call to register. 503-823-3195.
1436 Southeast Spokane Street
Portland, Or
Isobel’s Clubhouse at Zimmerman Community Center: Party!
Sweethearts of all ages are welcomed to “Portland’s livingroom,” where everyone can enjoy face painting, portrait photos, cookie decorating, arts & crafts and more! February 14th from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm. 503-224-4636.
1542 Northwest 14th Avenue
Portland, Or
Washington County Museum: Free Family Day
Explore the museum free of charge and go home with Valentine crafts and some new historical knowledge and trivia about the city! February 12th, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm.
17677 Northwest Springville Road
Portland, Or
Beaverton Library: Valentine’s Love Fest
The Murray Scholls branch hosts carnival style games, prizes, crafting, snacks and more. While you're there, don't forget to check out a book or get a library card! 10:00 am to noon. Free. 503-350-3600.
11200 Southwest Murray Scholls Place
Portland, Or
Attend Lovey Babies at the Beaverton main branch, to make a valentine and take the rare opportunity to dance your heart out to Valentine tunes in this normally hushed setting. February 14th from 10:30 am - 11:30 am. Free. 503-350-3600.
12375 Southwest 5th Street
Beaverton, Or
Lake Oswego Library: Crafts
Come create your favorite animal out of paper hearts and borrow some new reads. February 8th & 9th, 11:00 am. Ages 3-5. The fun is free, however, registration is required to keep track of how much craft material & supervision will be needed. 503-697-6580.
706 4th Street,
Lake Oswego, Or
Belmont Library: Valentine Crafts
Come for hearts and crafts with three locations to choose from! Free.
Belmont Library: Feb. 10th, 3:00 pm - 4:45 pm. 1038 SE 39th Avenue, 503-988-5382.
Troutdale Library: Feb. 11th, 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm, 2451 SW Cherry Park Road. 503-988-5355.
Central Library: Feb. 12th, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, 801 SW 10th Avenue. 503-988-5123.
Holgate Library: Easy Homemade Valentines
On February 13th, teen volunteers will help you and your kiddos to make unique and heartfelt gifts. 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm. Free. 503-988-5389.
7905 SE Holgate Boulevard
Portland, Or
What is your family doing to celebrate this sweet holiday?
--Genna McGahee
photo courtesy of the green gal via flikr
