While a bit sluggish to get into the holiday spirit this year, downtown Haverhill merchants are all over Valentine’s Day. Last night I took a little stroll to see who got all decked out. From these paper hearts at Cutting Edge Salon, to roses in the window of Lounge 59, downtown Haverhill is really showing the love.

Window of Cutting Edge Salon at 32 Washington St.

I always love checking out the windows at The Classic Couple. Most of all I love their perpetually tinsel-haired mannequin- this time decked out in a ballgown with a blingy bodice and a skirt with photo-realistic rose print.

Window of The Classic Couple at 97 Washington St.

Jimmy at Mizan Salon regularly goes all out with his window displays, and this one is no exception. Simple idea, but really eye-catching!

Window at Mizan, 62 Wingate St.

Okay, okay, it’s not a Valentine’s window really, but it is for a good cause. The Haverhill Cultural Council and Haverhill Art Association have teamed up to bring us A Taste of Creative Haverhill, tomorrow afternoon from 3:00 – 6:00pm at 90 Washington St.  In fact, there’s another nice window display there, too:

Window at 90 Washington St. next to The Tap

Tickets are $10, which gets you in the door to try out some of Harbor Sweets’ handmade chocolates, MS Walker wines, and tasty cheeses. There will also a silent auction with items such as weekend getaways, artwork, and gift baskets- just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Not only does the event promise to be a nice distraction from the harsh winter we’ve been having, but proceeds will help bring Make Some Noise, a 16 week performing arts series, to downtown Haverhill this summer. And from what I hear, it won’t just be your average grandpappy’s jazz series. We have circus acts, drag queens, and some of Haverhill’s best bands to look forward to.

I plan on stopping by and cramming my face full of Harbor Sweets- how about you?