AYER — “Love is in (the) Ayer” this February, with a month-long line-up of fun and festive community activities featuring Valentine’s Day themes.
Known as “the day of lovers” and presumably named for St. Valentine, a martyred priest who died in the 27th century BCE, romantic holiday traditions may come from a less somber source: a pagan celebration dating to that time period.
Today’s cheerful, hearts-and-flowers holiday is all about love. And it has special significance in this small, bustling Nashoba Valley community, which is rolling out a red carpet for it this year.
Incorporated on February 14, 1871, Ayer marks its 155th anniversary on Valentine’s Day.
“Valentine’s Day is part of (our) history,” said Rachel “Ray” Friedlander, Ayer economic development director.
And it’s “not just for young lovers,” adds Council on Aging Director Katie Petrossi. It’s a holiday that folks of all ages can enjoy.
“Love your library, your community and your town,” invites the staff at the Ayer Library, which is offering special Valentine’s Day-themed activities during February.
The Senior center and Recreation Department are also hosting special events.
Ayer restaurants and businesses offering Valentine’s-themed menus, specials and events in February include The Billiards Cafe on Main Street, where local guitarist Luke Condon will perform on Feb. 13 from 8-11 p.m., with half-price pool until 7 p.m. that evening and drink specials at the bar.
A full list of participating businesses and scheduled events is available on the website. https://www.ayerlibrary.org/news/love-is-in-the-ayer.
Town businesses or organizations that would like to join the town-wide promotion may contact Economic Development Director Ray Friedlander at 978-772-8220 or at [email protected]
Activities Roster
Ayer Public Library — Free and Open to All
Feb. 3-14 — Hands-on activities include a Valentine’s Day card-making table, creating a Community Valentine’s Day Banner for residents and visitors to inscribe with messages, sharing what they love about Ayer, and making decorative placemats for the Ayer Senior Center.
Feb. 7 — Take Your Child to the Library Day: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Storytime, crafts and games in the Children’s Room. No Registration required.
Feb. 3-28 — Main Desk: Simple crafts for all ages. Make a bookmark or create a decorative cork heart.
Senior Center
Feb. 4, 1 p.m. — Framed Clay Roses art class, ages 11 plus, $5 per person (Scholarships available.) Please call to sign up: 978-772-8260
Feb.9 — Spa Day: Massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, $5 per service for adult seniors, $10 for ages under 60. (Scholarships available.) By appointment, beginning at 1:30 p.m. Please call 978-772-8260
Feb. 13, 12 p.m. — Fun and festive luncheon fit for the Queen of Hearts…You!
Attendees are invited to wear a touch of red or pink. Cost $3.00 (Scholarships available.)
Please Call 978-772-8260
Ayer Town Hall
Feb. 10, 6 p.m. — Valentine’s Puzzle Wars (Teams of 4) Fee: $35 — Contact Parks and Rec Director Sarah Ernst: [email protected] or call: 978 796-5915.
Feb. 13, 5 p.m. — Ayer’s Birthday Celebration, 5 p.m. — Free and open to all
Ayer Town Manager Robert Pontbriand thanked all those involved in the town’s first Valentine’s Day birthday celebration, including the Ayer Library, Senior Center and Parks Department. He added a “very special thanks” to participating businesses, noting their support throughout the year. They are “an integral part” of the community, he said.
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