Thompson Valley Rotary’s annual fundraiser brings love to the streets of the Sweetheart City
Each February, the streets of Loveland transform into a sea of red hearts, each one carrying a message of love, friendship or appreciation. For nearly 50 years, the Valentine Hearts Program has been a cherished symbol of Loveland’s identity as the Sweetheart City.
Managed for more than 35 years by the Thompson Valley Rotary Club, the program raises funds to support children locally and abroad while giving residents and visitors alike a joyful way to celebrate the season of love.
Beginning at 12 a.m. Dec. 1, 2025, community members can order personalized wooden hearts to be displayed on Loveland’s light poles throughout February. Each heart costs $70 and includes a custom message of up to 25 characters that will be hand-painted by students from Thompson Valley High School and local Rotary Interact Clubs.
With only 400 hearts available, demand is high. The hearts typically sell out in less than eight hours.
The Valentine Hearts program is a tradition that connects generations of Loveland residents. Each message is personal, meaningful and a reflection of love that makes the community so special. The hearts are repainted and reused each year, symbolizing enduring love and community spirit.
Thanks to the City of Loveland, the hearts are installed in late January and remain up through the end of February, weather permitting.
This year’s project is once again made possible with the help of Guiry’s Paints, which donates a portion of the paint used each season.
Residents can express affection, commemorate milestones or surprise loved ones with a message that’s visible all month long—from sweet and sentimental to clever and fun. There have even been a few marriage proposals in past years. Messages must align with the Valentine’s theme and avoid advertising or political content.
Those interested in receiving a reminder email before sales open can contact the Rotary Club at thompsonvalleyrotary@gmail.com. The link for purchasing hearts can be found on the club’s website. The link will not be live until 12 a.m. Dec. 1.
