7 unique ways to spend Valentine’s Day in New Jersey

OK Jersey, here's your chance to get Valentine's Day right.

Feb. 14 falls on a Sunday this year, which means there's a whole weekend of events to take advantage of. Some are for couples, others are geared toward the family. There's also a few chances to bring more meaning to what is often slammed as a 'commercial holiday.'  So, lock in plans now and skip the stress of frantically trying to book reservations next weekend.

Valentine’s Day Masked Ball, Lambert Castle (Friday, Feb. 12)

Get dressed up and and join the Passaic County Historical Society at Lambert Castle in Paterson.  The semi-formal dance runs from 7 to 11 p.m.  Light refreshment will be served. Cash bar is available. Tickets $25 per person, for those 21 and older. Reservations are required.

10th Annual Valentine's Day Plunge (Saturday, Feb. 13)

How about showing heart for a great cause? Take a plunge into the icy Atlantic Ocean and help raise funds and awareness for ALS.  The 10th annual event (Saturday, Feb. 13) kicks off at noon on the Main Beach in Manasquan.

Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail weekend, some NJ wineries (Feb.13-14)

You want a romantic outing?  How about two days of wine, chocolate, sweets, and treats, in the annual tradition for the Garden State Wine Growers Association.  Those taking part include Iron Plow Vineyards, Natali Vineyards, Old York Cellars, Plagidos Winery, Villa Milagro Vineyards, Working Dog Winery.

Absecon Lighthouse Vow Renewal (Sunday, Feb. 14)

Bring your love to new heights, at NJ's tallest lighthouse!  The Absecon landmark is hosting its annual “Evening of Romance & Renewal.” Couples can take part in a group vow renewal ceremony, followed by a champagne toast and some music by DJ. Couples are asked to "give from the heart" for this fundraising event, with a minimum of $40.

Family Date Night at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk (Friday, Feb. 12 - Sun, Feb. 14)

Make it a family date night at Point Pleasant Beach.  For just under $50 (starting at 5:30 p.m.), you'll get admission for four to Jenkinson’s Aquarium, a $10 Playcard for the Pavilion Arcade, a large plain pizza, pitcher of soda and a treat from the Sweet Shop.

Hippo Love at Adventure Aquarium (Feb. 13-15)

Adventure Aquarium wants you to show some Hippo Love during Hippo Awareness Weekend, Saturday, Feb. 13 through Monday, Feb. 15.

Science loving couples may want to splurge on a Saturday night event, "That’s A-Moray: Love Below Sea Level.'

Valentine's Day Cruise (Feb. 13 and 14)

Entertainment Cruises out of Weehawken offers both brunch and dinner cruises to treat your sweetheart to a memorable trip.  Based at Lincoln Harbor Marina, there's delicious food, entertainment and stunning views of the Jersey and New York City skylines.

Erin Vogt is a lifelong Jersey Girl, whose first reporting gig involved her Fisher Price tape recorder. As a wife and momma of two kiddies, she firmly believes that life’s too short to drink bad coffee.  A fan of the beach, Dave Grohl and karma, in no particular order.