CHICAGO — You can skip the pricey restaurants this Valentine's Day.
Celebrating the romantic holiday in Chicago doesn't have to break your bank: You can take your kids to a family dance, go dancing with your significant other or try to pick up a certain somebody at the Field Museum.
Here's how to celebrate Valentine's Day in Chicago for free:
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Family Dance Night
Trying to get in precious family time for Valentine's Day? The Lincoln Park Cultural Center is hosting a Valentine's Day Dance complete with treats. The dance comes a few days before Valentine's Day, which means you can take the kids out on Tuesday and then enjoy a date guilt-free on Sunday.
When: 5-7 p.m. Feb. 9
Where: Lincoln Park Cultural Center, 2045 N. Lincoln Park West
Read more: Click here
Step Out For a Parade
Chinatown will welcome the Year of the Monkey at the Lunar New Year Parade on Valentine's Day. Check out traditional Chinese music and dance, see the floats and cheer on the "Dragon dance." Don't forget to stop by a local bakery to pick up treats like pork buns, egg tarts or red bean cakes for a romantic dinner later on.
When: 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Feb. 14.
Where: Archer and Wentworth avenues
Read more: Click here
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Dancing at the Pier
Want to go out dancing without breaking the bank? The Crystal Gardens will host a Black History Month exhibit throughout February. You can stop by noon-4 p.m. on Valentine's Day to check out the Surround Sound Exhibit and dance your heart out.
When: Noon to 4 p.m. Feb. 14
Where: Navy Pier's Crystal Gardens
Read more: Click here
Fun at the Field Museum
Maybe your dream girl is a 67-million-year-old T. rex. You can find her (her name's SUE) at the Field Museum, which has free admission for Illinois residents on Valentine's Day. And once she shoots you down, you can look for a rebound girl at the Inside Ancient Egypt exhibits — or head to the museum's Crown Family PlayLab if you're with the kids.
When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 14
Where: Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive
Read more: Click here
[Garfield Park Conservatory]
Flowers for Free
There's no reason to spend your savings on a bouquet. Bring your significant other to the Garfield Park Conservatory and enjoy the flowers for free on Valentine's Day. The conservatory also has a special light display called "solarise," meaning this date will be extra special.
When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave.
Read more: Click here
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