UPDATE: Loveland’s beloved holiday tradition has kicked off with the rapid sell-out of 400 wooden hearts, which disappeared within just six hours of going on sale. The hearts, a cherished symbol of love and community, were made available at midnight on December 1, 2023, and by sunrise on December 2, they were all reserved.
The enthusiastic rush for these hearts, priced at $70 each, demonstrates the city’s passionate commitment to this annual tradition. “People like it, you know?” commented Rodger Bailey, a member of the Thompson Valley Rotary Club, the organization behind the initiative. “Selling out 400 hearts in six and a half hours, people staying up until midnight, that kind of tells you everything you need to know.”
The hearts adorn light poles along major thoroughfares, particularly on U.S. Highways 287 and 34, displaying heartfelt messages from residents to their loved ones. These messages can range from romantic declarations to notes for children and parents, even including marriage proposals.
The overwhelming demand signals the deep-rooted significance of this tradition in Loveland, where hearts have become synonymous with Valentine’s Day celebrations. Proceeds from the heart sales are crucial for local funding, with all revenues directed towards community grants that stay within Loveland.
Bailey emphasized the collaborative effort required to make this program a success, noting the significant contribution of Thompson Valley High School’s National Honor Society, whose members volunteer their time to paint and prepare each heart. In total, approximately 400 volunteer hours were dedicated to the heart initiative, showcasing the community’s commitment to supporting local causes.
The logistics behind the heart display are also noteworthy. Loveland city engineers, alongside city crews, worked meticulously to identify suitable light poles for hanging the hearts, ensuring safety and aesthetic appeal. “It’s a team effort,” Bailey declared. “Our club, the National Honor Society, and the City of Loveland—we couldn’t do it without any of those partnerships.”
As Loveland revels in the festive spirit, the hearts not only symbolize love but also the unity and dedication of a community that thrives on collaboration. With this year’s hearts sold out, many are already looking forward to next year’s sale, eager to secure a piece of this endearing tradition. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding next year’s heart sales, as demand is sure to remain high.
This year’s swift sell-out reflects the heartwarming connection among Loveland residents, reminding everyone of the joy that comes from sharing love and community spirit during the holiday season.
