Whether you have a date lined up, are single and loving it or the very idea of Valentine’s Day makes you ill and you’re just in it for the 50 percent off candy on Feb. 15, we’ve got you covered. Below are ideas for every one of you, whether you choose to take part in Cupid’s favorite day or not.
For the Taken:
The Perfect Date | Though some stand by the tried-and-true romantic dinner on Valentine’s Day (and Worcester has many great restaurants), you may want to think out of the box. How about some ice skating at the Buffone Arena or The Bull Run’s annual Valentine’s Day Ball in Shirley (at 8 p.m. Feb. 14 for $30)? Try a couples massage or checkout Flashdance: The Musical at the Hanover Theatre. A romantic picnic in the living room, a scavenger hunt or even taking a class together and learning something new could spark some new interests and maybe something else, too (wink, wink).
The Perfect Present | Chocolates, flowers and teddy bears are all well and good, and they are certainly appreciated, but putting some thought into your gift and showing you know the receiver’s interests is far better. They say it’s the thought that counts, and it couldn’t be truer. What are your significant other’s hobbies and favorite things? Gifts that show you care about that are always awesome. And guys deserve gifts, too ~ maybe a new techie gadget or something from Man Crates or tickets to see a favorite team or artist.
Movie Night | If you want to go the dinner and a movie route, there are a couple movies coming out this month that would fit the romantic bill ~ Fifty Shades of Grey, for instance. Better yet, order some Chinese food and cuddle up on the sofa and watch an oldie-but -goodie at home … kiss-inspiring films like Shakespeare in Love, When Harry Met Sally, Jerry Maguire, Dirty Dancing or the very sexy Original Sin.
For the Singles:
Girls Night | Get your single girlfriends together for a night or rent some rooms at a nearby hotel and make a weekend of it. Dress to the nines, go have a few martinis, buy a little something for yourself, get a manicure, head to the club or bar and scope out some eligible bachelors … or don’t. Lucky Dog is hosting Men of Steel (an all-male revue) on Feb. 13 for some drool-worthy fun.
Guys Night | Single men can have fun without it being awkward. Of course there are always strip clubs, but there are also sporting events, whiskey and beer tastings and the chance to check out the latest action flick or dumb comedy. Have a pool tourney at Jillian’s or make the drive to Mohegan Sun … and by all means, talk to the girl who seems to be checking you out.
Running Solo | Don’t feel like making small talk or getting crazy with your friends? There’s nothing wrong with staying home, taking some time to organize, read, paint or catch up on Netflix. If you do want to head out on your own, there are tons of options. Really want to make a statement? Join the Cupid’s Undie Run and have an excuse to be half naked in public. The Boston event is for charity, and there is an after-party at the Landsdowne Pub.
For the “I hate this holiday” People:
Think Valentine’s Day is an overrated, dumb holiday created by stores to make you feel bad about yourself or just annoy the crap out of you with its Barbie Townhouse pink-and-red motif? Many people feel that same way. In fact, people actually throw Anti-Valentine’s Day parties ~ throw one yourself. Or just listen to angst-ridden ’90s music, do something productive or catch up on your sleep … or just live it out like any other normal day. There’s a great big world out there … try something new.
By Jennifer Russo