2.12.2026

Good morning, Naperville! Roses are red, violets are blue, here’s a fun Valentines day fact for you. Roses are synonymous with the day of love, but don’t fare too well with winter weather in the US. To meet that demand, 250 million roses are grown for Valentines day and imported from places like Ecuador, Kenya and Columbia.

In this week’s Niche…

• Primary elections

• Romantic restaurants

• Valentine’s breakfast

Here we go!

-Elrie & Carly

📰 The Digest

🏫 Exciting news for those preparing to enter their freshman year! Neuqua Valley High School will welcome freshmen back under its main roof starting in the 2027–28 school year after renovations funded by District 204’s recent bond referendum. The $96 million project includes two additions to create new science labs, classrooms, collaborative spaces, and expanded staff offices. Construction is set to begin in spring 2026, with the additions expected to open by summer 2027 and full completion in 2028. The renovation also includes a new turf field, expanded cafeteria space, and a redesigned secure entrance. District leaders say the move will improve efficiency and allow the neighboring Birkett Center to be used for other needs.

🗳️ The 2026 Primary Election is Tuesday, March 17, when voters choose a Democratic or Republican ballot to decide which candidates will advance to the November 3rd General Election. Naperville voters in DuPage and Will Counties will also consider a $120 million Naperville Park District referendum to fund park improvements, a new indoor activity center at Frontier Sports Complex, trail extensions, and land preservation.

🔥 Fair to say we’ve had some particularly cold days this Winter. Also probably fair to say that your gas bill reflects that. For those facing financial hardship, Nicor Gas is accepting applications for its Shield of Caring program, offering grants of up to $250 for income eligible customers. The program, administered by The Salvation Army, is part of several assistance options available, including LIHEAP, the Sharing Program (up to $700), bill discounts through the Low-Income Discount Program, and flexible payment plans. Customers can also access free energy assessments and personalized support through Nicor Gas’ Community Connection Center.

Looking to put your business in front of local readers? We’d love to help—get in touch here! 

📍Naper Now

💘 It is admittedly a bit too close to nail down that Valentine’s reservation at your favorite spot if you haven’t already, but it’s nice to know that we have such acclaimed dining here locally. OpenTable’s 2026 list of the Top 100 Romantic Restaurants includes four Illinois spots three in Chicago’s Lincoln Park (Geja’s Cafe, Mon Ami Gabi, and North Pond) and one right here in Naperville.

Meson Sabika earned a spot on the list, offering a “taste of Spain” inside a historic 1847 mansion with eight beautifully decorated dining rooms. The award-winning restaurant is known for its tapas, paella, and classic Spanish dishes, making it a standout suburban destination for a memorable night out.

☀️ We’re putting the finishing touches on our 2026 Summer Camp Guide, packed with local camps, enrichment programs, sports, arts, and specialty experiences for kids of all ages. Whether you're looking for half-day options, full-day adventures, or something totally unique, this guide will help you plan a fun and stress-free summer.

It will be published in our next issue, just in time to start booking before spots fill up. Stay tuned!

Just make sure your referral confirms on their end, and you’re good to go!

🏙️ Around Town

📆 Interested in sharing an event with us? Submit it here! 

🎨 Kids Corner

Lunar New Year Celebration @ Fox Valley Mall (2/14)

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with a festive afternoon designed for kids and families! Little ones can enjoy hands-on activities, cultural experiences, and lively performances that bring tradition to life in a fun, engaging way. A great opportunity for kids to learn, play, and celebrate together.

Mini & Me Valentine’s Breakfast @ Tasty Biscuit (2/14)

Bring your little one along for a Valentine’s-themed brunch date filled with sweet treats and big smiles! Enjoy a festive set menu with coffee for grownups, kid-friendly mocktails, plus fun games and prizes to keep the love going all morning!

Wendy and DB @ 95th Street Library (2/16)

Kids and families are invited to groove along with Grammy-nominated kindie duo Wendy and DB! This high-energy, blues-inspired concert brings stories, movement, and music together as kids explore themes of creativity, curiosity, love, and self-expression. With ukulele, guitars, percussion, and lots of audience participation, it’s a joyful, toe-tapping experience little music lovers won’t want to miss.

Winter Concert Series @ Fox Valley Mall (2/16)

Get ready to dance, sing, and play with Miss Jamie & Friends! This free, interactive concert is perfect for kids ages 2–8 and their families, featuring playful songs, movement, and plenty of chances to join in. A fun, high-energy way for little ones to build confidence, coordination, and a love for music together.

Youth Self Defense @ Naperville Safety Town (2/16)

This youth self-defense workshop (ages 7–11) empowers kids through age-appropriate discussions and hands-on activities focused on confidence and safety. Participants will learn basic self-defense skills, situational awareness, and simple strategies for staying safe—all in a fun, supportive environment. Parents may drop off or stay if they prefer.

$1 Movie Mondays @ Paramount Theatre (2/16)

Feel the groove! Catch Disney & Pixar’s Soul on the Paramount Theatre’s stunning two-story screen for just $1 per ticket. Tickets are available at the door (cash only, $20 bills or less), and concessions will be available for purchase—making it an easy, affordable family movie outing filled with heart and music

🐶 Furry Friend of the Week

Meet Judge 🐾 a sweet, affectionate guy who’s ready for a fresh start. He’s incredibly gentle and loves being around people, especially when it means pets, cuddles, and quiet time with his humans. This lovable boy thrives on attention and is happiest in a calm, loving environment where he can feel safe and continue building confidence. Judge is searching for a home that will give him the stability, patience, and love he deserves.

If you’re looking for a loyal companion with a big heart and endless affection to give, Judge would love the chance to start his next chapter with you.

Interested in adopting Judge (or seeing more adoptable pets)? Visit here to learn more.

🎶 What’s Happenin’

• 2/13 Friday Funnies @ Lennon’s 8:30pm

• 2/13 InFunktious @ Quigley’s Irish Pub 9pm

• 2/14 The Rhythm Rockets @ Frankie’s Blue Room 7pm

• 2/14 Emo Throwbacks @ The Piazza 7pm

• 2/14 Shawn Kumar @ Lennon’s 7:30pm

• 2/14 Windy City Dueling Pianos @ Spartan Ale House 8pm

• 2/14 Rock Steady @ The Can Bar 8:30pm

• 2/14 The Wayouts @ Quigley’s Irish Pub 9pm

• 2/15 Radiant Voices @ Wentz Hall 3:30pm 

• 2/16 Trivia Night @ Empire Burgers & Brew 7pm

• 2/17 Fat Tuesday @ The Venue 8pm

• 2/19 Everybody Thrashing @ Madden Theatre 7:30pm

🌤️ The Niche Forecast: Week at a Glance

• Friday: ⛅️ Partly sunny, high 51°

• Saturday: 🌥️ Partly cloudy, high 53°

• Sunday: ☀️ Sunny, high 55°

• Monday: 🌥️ Partly cloudy, high 57°

• Tuesday: ☁️ Cloudy, high 56°

• Wednesday: 🌧️ PM showers, high 61°

• Thursday: 🌥️ Partly cloudy, high 46°

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