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Each February, from pink flyers peppering bulletin boards to candy hearts at campus events, Valentine’s Day shows up all over Loyola. But beyond roses and chocolate, the holiday gives students a chance to think about the people, places, and moments that make Loyola feel special.
For some students, Valentine’s Day is less about romance and more about romanticizing everyday life at Loyola.
Fourth-year student Taylor Macias says Loyola’s campus and lakefront location make it easy to find beauty in everyday moments.
“To romanticize life, I like walking along the lake, going to the different cafe spots around campus, and when it’s warm out, it’s fun to do homework outside on the quad or even the beach,” Macias said.
That sense of everyday magic extends beyond campus.
Anna Happ says exploring Chicago and spending time with friends has helped her see Loyola as more than just a place to go to class.
“Walking down the streets that always reflect the seasons and studying in local coffee shops with friends and getting to experience the neighborhood outside of campus helps me romanticize studying and reminds me that there is more to life in Chicago than tests and assignments,” Happ said.
For others, Loyola’s greatest gift is the people who make it feel like a community.
Natalie King says the relationships she’s built are central to her Loyola experience.
“I think the people are what make Loyola special, both professors and other students. I’ve been able to find so many genuine and supportive friends here,” King said. “I can also tell that my professors really care about their students’ success and want to build relationships with their students.”
That sense of connection shows up not just in relationships, but in the experiences Loyola creates for students.
Fourth-year student Aaliyah Caraballo says Loyola Athletics’ giveaways have become an unexpected highlight of her time on campus.
“I love when they give out free stuff for events. I like when the school treats me,” Caraballo said. “They do jerseys, bags, hats, scarves. I feel like it’s a good way to get me involved in sports because otherwise I might not go. And it’s nice because you can take that with you too after you graduate.”
For other students, gifts can come in the form of cherished memories.
Xavier Barrios says the support he’s received through Campus Ministry has left a lasting impact.
“I love Campus Ministry. I’ll be having the worst day of my life, and I go to Campus Ministry, and they turn it around,” Barrios said. “One time I was having a particularly bad day, so I went to Mass and after Mass they were handing out Lickity Split, and it healed me.”
Valentine’s Day events across campus
Students looking to celebrate have plenty of opportunities across campus this week.
Valentine’s Themed Group Fitness Classes
February 11-15, Halas Recreation Center
Loyola Group Fitness is hosting a Valentine’s mini theme week with several themed classes at Halas on the Lake Shore campus. Find out more on Instagram and view class descriptions on the Campus Recreation website.
Rambler Raas Valentine’s Day Cookies
February 12, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Damen Student Center
Rambler Raas will sell Valentine’s Day themed cookies and hot chocolate to support their organization and dance team. They will be set up at tables 4 and 5 in Damen Student Center.
ALPFA’s Valentine’s Day Social
February 12, 6 p.m.-7 p.m., Cuneo 119
Join the American Latin Professionals for America for a Valentine’s Day social featuring friendship bracelet making and DIY flowers.
February 12, 6 p.m.-7 p.m., Simpson MPR
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic comedy by joining the Crochet & Knit Club for movie night.
Palestine Children’s Relief Fund Valentines
February 12, 5 p.m.-10 p.m., Damen Den
Write messages of love and hope with Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. The event will include food and refreshments, with a focus on community, solidarity, and learning.
February 12-22, Newhart Family Theatre
The Department of Fine and Performing Arts presents Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Mark E. Lococo. The beloved play features love triangles, magic, and romance, fitting for a Valentine’s Day activity.
February 12, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., TBD
Make crafts and enjoy drinks from Nood Coffee, a Chicago coffee cart, at Women in Leadership’s Valentine’s event.
LUC Jazzuits Valentine’s Day Bake Sale
February 13, 12 p.m.-5 p.m., Damen Student Center
The LUC Jazzuits will sell cupcakes, cookies, and other Valentine’s treats in Damen. Stop by the bake sale for a sweet treat or last-minute gift.
Arrupe College DIY Valentines Workshop
February 13, 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Begich 160, Maguire Hall, Water Tower Campus
Arrupe & Beyond is hosting a Valentine’s event featuring bouquet making, brownies, and chick-n-minis for the month of love.
Valentine Vixn Love Talents & Wellness
February 13, 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
Join the Campus Drag Collective to celebrate Valentine’s with a drag show, arts, crafts, and snacks.
Friday Night Flick: Eternity (2025)
February 13, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., Damen Cinema
This week’s Friday Night Flick, hosted by the Department of Programming, will feature a showing of recent romance movie Eternity.
February 17, 5 p.m.-7 p.m., Damen Den
Monarch Initiatives will host a day of care, creativity, and community with Love in Action, including food, comfort, and self-love and growth.
Womxns Initiatives February Gathering: Love and Limits
February 20, 4 p.m.-6 p.m., Regis MPR
Join a discussion on healthy relationships, self-love, and community building with the Center for Student Inclusion and Belonging’s Womxns Initiatives. All are welcome to attend and check out their build-your-own soda bar.
The Loyola Phoenix is also sharing student perspectives on love this Valentine’s season, including a viewing guide and a feature on love in classical literature.
At Loyola, Valentine’s Day is just another reminder that meaning can be found in classrooms, coffee shops, friendships, and moments that turn an ordinary day into something special.
