Downtown South Bend restaurants expected to be busy for Valentine’s Day weekend

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) - This weekend will serve as a “shot in the arm” for restaurants in downtown South Bend.

WNDU 16 News Now has confirmed that many restaurants are already booked when it comes to reservations.

So why? It is Valentine’s Day weekend, but is that the sole reason? Well, if it isn’t love, it must be because of the big weekend for two local colleges.

Notre Dame is holding its annual “Junior Parents Weekend” while Holy Cross College is having their family weekend. So, if you see a lot going on downtown, you’ll have some context.

We talked to the founder of the Downtown Dining Association on Thursday about this boost, even during hard times for a lot of families.

“We have been a bit slow, credit card debt nationwide has never been higher in the history of credit cards. People want to do this, they would like to go out and spend, but they are more hesitant,” said Mark McDonnell.

McDonnell also jokes that you shouldn’t let the snow steer you away from supporting local businesses and maybe even a night out with loved ones.

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