CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Enjoying a delicious meal by the fabulous Scott Conant with Pavia Rosati at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas’ pop-up during the NYC Wine & Food Festival; with Mindy Baer Puller, cheering on Steve Guttenberg after a stellar performance on Broadway in Relatively Speaking; at the Range Rover Evoque event with Knicks star Amar’e Stoudemire, Gary Flom, and Samantha Yanks; with my family at Stephan Keszler’s gallery, enjoying the Banksy exhibit

February brings Valentine’s Day, which conjures thoughts of chocolate, flowers, romance, and love. Traditionally we think of the holiday in terms of romantic love, but we should also celebrate the emotion in all its forms: for family, friends, community, and even ourselves by nurturing our spirits during these cold winter months.

Beyond the people I care about deeply, I am also passionate about the rich cultural offerings for which New York City is famous. Walk around the new art galleries in Chelsea and on Madison Avenue such as Keszler Gallery, which features work from the elusive graffiti artist Banksy, or, for a great winter afternoon or evening, explore Manhattan’s diverse theater offerings. One of my longtime favorite shows, Rent, is playing Off- Broadway, and I recently had the pleasure of seeing a newer play, Relatively Speaking, starring Steve Guttenberg and Marlo Thomas, on Broadway. I also like to spend some time at our city’s amazing restaurants during this time of year. One of my favorite chefs is Scott Conant from the incredible Scarpetta in the Meatpacking District. I was lucky enough to enjoy his tasting menu, which was truly extraordinary.

Two events that have found a place in my heart also come to our city in the winter months. LIFE Camp’s Peace Week, which took place January 15 through 22, has a collective goal of fostering peace throughout New York City. The week-long event encourages youth to take personal action toward creating inner peace and setting a positive example for others. I was honored to shoot a public service announcement to support the movement. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, a fixture in both fall and winter, hits New York from February 10 through 17 this year. I am thrilled that Gotham will be featured under the tents at Lincoln Center amid all the excitement.

So whether you are inside enjoying the galleries and plays or outside shopping and exploring, New York is as colorful and vibrant as ever. Get out and show your love for our wonderful city. See you there!

DEBRA HALPERT

Follow me on Twitter at @debrahalpert

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK VON HOLDEN/WIREIMAGE.COM (CONANT)