The second annual “Day of Love” celebration is returning to the Marion County Justice Court on Valentine’s Day.
Dozens of couples visit the court at 4660 Portland Road NE to tie the knot every day, with Valentine’s Day and Halloween topping the list of the most popular dates.
Last year, Justice of the Peace Justin Kidd officiated 10 weddings for the county’s first Day of Love, leading to its designation as “Marryin’ County” from the Oregonian.
Kidd performs marriages in English and Spanish.
“This court is here to serve our entire community, and Spanish language wedding ceremonies make the courthouse accessible to people who have not always felt welcome in our court system,” he said.
Access to justice is an important personal issue to Kidd, a foster and adoptive parent and self-described “people person” with a passion for being in the courtroom and foster care issues.
“Whether you’re rich or poor, the state should recognize the equal dignity of your marriage,” Kidd said. “We want to make the day special, even for couples of modest means.”