Parties, dinner and erotic book readings..

Just a few hints on how to spend your Valentine’s Day

By Jenna McNamara

February 2005 – Valentine’s Day is upon us once again. Everywhere you look you are bombarded with hearts, flowers and candy. Some eagerly anticipate this holiday, others dread its approach, and there are a few who simply see it as just another day. But, February 14 can be a great day to forget about the cold and stop worrying about snow.

Central Mass has so many options that everyone should be able to find a way to make this Valentine’s Day special. For those outdoorsy types, Wachusett Mountain offers the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation this Valentine’s Day weekend. After treating the one you love to a day of skiing, relax in Wachusett’s Coppertop Lounge. Enjoy a few drinks and listen to live music as you unwind and warm up — ay Sharon will be performing on Saturday, February 12 and the Barry Stockwell Band on Sunday, February 13.

Come party this Valentine’s Day at Club Oz on Grafton Street and end your evening with a champagne toast at midnight. As always, there will be enough music, drinks and fun to keep both couples and singles satisfied and happy this Valentine’s Day.

Looking for something a bit more intimate? The Flying Rhino Café and Watering Hole on Shrewsbury Street is one of the best places to bring a date in Worcester. Expect Valentine’s Day dinner specials, as well as their usual favorites and lengthy drink list. Make your reservations now, as this popular romantic dining spot will surely be packed. The Tatnuck Bookseller Restaurant on Chandler Street is also offering a quiet evening, with a specially prepared fourcourse Valentine’s Day menu ($34.99 per person or $49.99 per person with wine flight included). Reservations are required.

Start Valentine’s Day early with an erotic book reading at Vibes Gift Shop on Water Street. On Friday, February 11, Boston-based authors Scott&Scott will be reading from their Romentics novel series, which focus on the romantic lives of gay men. Also appearing is local artist Michael Breyette, whose sensual works will be on display in the Vibes gallery space during the month of February. Both the novels and art work will be available for purchase