- September 21, 2024
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Jack Pollard, Manuela Pollard, Lori Hampton, Shannon Callea, and Phil Callea dig in to the s'mores bar at Date Night at Riverwalk Park. Photo by Zach Fedewa.
John and Jourdan Miaczynski share the Valentine's Day love with their son at Date Night at Riverwalk Park. Photo by Zach Fedewa.
Caden McKitrick builds s'mores with his mother Brooke McKitrick at Date Night at Riverwalk Park. Photo by Zach Fedewa.
Port Orange residents enjoy the sunset before the start of the festivities at Date Night at Riverwalk Park. Photo by Zach Fedewa.
Barbara Gomulka plays the piano at Date Night at Riverwalk Park. Photo by Zach Fedewa.
A group of couples compete in the Not So Newly Wed quizzing game at Date Night at Riverwalk Park. Photo by Zach Fedewa.
In the relatively new open space of Riverwalk Park, couples attended the first ever Date Night in honor of Valentine’s Day on Friday, Feb. 15. The event featured the movie "Dirty Dancing," games like couple’s quizzing, a s'mores and candy bar (provided by Jesus Church), food vendors, photo booth, and a pianist. The event was provided by Port Orange Parks and Recreation.
Shannon Callea and Manuela Pollard could not contain excitement and giggles for a night out with their date and friends. Pollard said the free child care was very helpful, and registration was accommodating. Pollard and Callea literally ran away with anticipation to enjoy the night.
John and Jourdan Miaczynski were not as fortunate to drop off the little one, yet were able to have a great time. John said the planned event made date night “substantially easier, 10 times easier.” Jourdan said the event meant there was no arguing about logistics, making the night relaxing and effortless.
Attendees reviewed the space positively.
"It is great the city converted it into a nice use for the land,” Jourdan Miaczynski said.
Callea said she was surprised there were not more people.
Regardless of the turnout, Mayor Don Burnette said he was proud of the Parks and Recreation Department for using the space effectively and creatively.
Valentine’s Date Night, and similar events, help support the community as well. Port Orange vendor Martha Gonzalez, owner of Churros and Cream, expressed that these events helped grow the business. The company grew from a small street cart to food truck to full-time store, Atlantic Creamery. Other vendors included East Coast Concession, Tacos Land, Jake’s BBQ, and Nutmeg’s Sweets.
