This three-day Festival of Love will have your heart aflutter – no partner necessary
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Because sometimes you need more than 24 hours to celebrate love in all its forms.
Love is in the air this February as one of Dickon’s favourite venues, The Tradies, transforms into a hub of romance, friendship, and celebration with their first-ever Festival of Love, just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Running from Friday 14 until Sunday 16 February, the event is setting hearts aflutter with an exciting lineup of entertainment and special offerings – and you don’t need to be in a relationship to enjoy them.
Proving that you don’t need a romantic dinner reservation for two to have a blast this February, during the Festival of Love, the Tradies will be opening their doors to anyone looking for something special to do or somewhere to go during the Valentine’s season.
And with plenty on offer, there will be something for everyone as it transforms into a hub of good vibes, great food, and even better company, perfect for celebrating Galentine’s, Valentine’s or something else entirely…
Here’s what’s happening!
Love at First Bite

Make your Valentine’s Day a night to remember with an enchanting evening at Essence restaurant.
On Friday 14 February, those dining at Essence restaurant will be treated to more than a good meal – they’ll also enjoy the melodic sounds of Cat Martin from 5.30 pm to 8.30 pm, followed by the smooth tunes of the Calvin Orosa Duo in the Lounge until late, complete with a complimentary flower to get everyone in the mood.
But this isn’t just ideal for date night.
The Tradies will also be introducing a community dining experience, Meet and Eat, to offer diners the opportunity to meet some new people and enjoy some delicious food all while creating conversation and connection.
Removing the awkward solo dining moments or stuck-in-your-corner table arrangements that we’ve all experienced at least once, book in at 7 pm to be seated with fellow food lovers at the welcoming communal tables – and we all know some of the best conversations happen over a delicious meal and a glass of wine.
There will also be a special ‘surprise and delight’ element, so keep an eye out for Cupid! Booked your table yet?
Get cosy over a cocktail

Catching up for Galentine’s, trying to build up the courage to say the big ‘L’ word or just looking for a great venue for a good drink? Make sure not to miss Cocktail Hour at the Tradies.
Running on both Friday and Saturday night from 8 pm until 10 pm, grab yourself a Midori Splice, Fruit Tingle, Cosmopolitan or a Love Island Iced Tea, to say ‘cheers’ with your nearest and dearest.
Forget a couple’s photo – a free caricature is the way to go this Valentine’s Day

You read that right. Cartoons by Chris will be at The Tradies on Valentine’s Day from 6.30 pm until 9.30 pm to capture a special moment with your loved one. Did we mention it’ll be free?
The perfect way to remember a romantic night out, it’ll be something you treasure forever.
Stretch-sesh with a side of magic, anyone?

Saturday morning is all about focussing on some self-love, with a free stretch session at 9.30 am, encouraging you to get bendy with your partner or some friends. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to breakfast at Bluey’s Café afterwards for a debrief of the night before.
Then, as night falls, keep your eyes peeled for Conor Leisky, who’ll be working his magic throughout the venue – literally! Roving around The Tradies from 6 pm until 9 pm, he’ll wow you as he performs some show-stopping magic in front of your eyes.
Find out what your heart is trying to tell you with a tarot reading

Finally, end the weekend on Sunday with something a bit different – free tarot readings with Melissa Ohana from 11 am.
Using Tarot cards as a tool to offer you deep insights and to explore your subconscious mind, she’ll offer you clarity and guidance while helping you learn about yourself. And you never know, she might just tell you that there will be someone new in your future very soon…
Just make sure you get there at 11 am so you don’t miss out!
And so much more!
Plus, word on the street is there will be some treats making their way around the venue throughout the festival, including roses and chocolates – and who doesn’t love free goodies?
Whether you’re rolling in with your whole crew, flying solo, or somewhere in between, the Tradies is the place to be this February.
THE ESSENTIALS
What: The Festival of Love
When: Friday 14 until Sunday 16 February
Where: 2 Badham Street, Dickson
Web: thetradies.com.au
Images supplied.