Want To Get Married On Valentine's Day?

Land O’ Lakes residents who have their hearts set on getting married during the group ceremony Feb. 14 at the historic courthouse in Dade City are almost out of time.

According to Paula O’Neil, Pasco County’s clerk of the court and comptroller, today, Feb. 10, is the last day to obtain a license for the big event.

The group ceremony is set for 2 p.m. Valentine’s Day on the steps of the 37918 Meridian Ave. courthouse. While the marriage license will cost residents $93.50, payable in cash only, the ceremony is free of charge in honor of the holiday.

O’Neil performs the ceremony personally.

“It’s fun,” she said. “(I do it) just to celebrate love.”

O’Neil said the Valentine’s Day ceremony is a three-year tradition now in Pasco County. She brought the practice to life when she was elected clerk. She particularly likes using the old courthouse as the venue, she said, because its storied history fits the occasion.

Last year, 19 couples wed during the group ceremony, O'Neil said. Nine couples had registered as of Feb. 9 for this year's event, she added.

For more information about the Valentine’s Day Marriage Ceremony, visit the clerk’s office online at pascoclerk.com. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 727-847-8086 or 352-521-4518. Residents can also stop by the clerk’s office in New Port Richey or Dade City for information.