Valentine’s Isn’t Just Chocolates and Roses

Believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. And while you may be dropping hints about your flower or jewelry wish list, you might also consider mentioning an original date idea that will steer you from trivial gifts and long restaurant lines. While nights at the LACMA, Getty Center, or 3^rd Street are always foolproof, these events might be just what you need to give your holiday the romantic boost it deserves.

 

If you’re willing to make the short trip to Marina del Rey, you can board a two-hour sunset cruise for just $40. Including drinks, dancing, and appetizers, it’s a romantic start to an evening around the harbor while waiting for the sun to set and the night to begin.

 

Boys, instead of picking up a dozen roses wrapped in cellophane from Ralph’s, take your date to the Los Angeles Flower Market. With vendors lining the street, let her pick out any bouquet she likes and don’t forget to make a mental note of which flowers she comments on as “favorites.” The flower market is located on Wall Street and is open Monday-Saturday, 6AM-2PM.

 

Grab or rent a bike and head to Venice beach for a couple’s scavenger hunt! Taking place the weekend before Valentine’s and on the 14^th, you and your date can compete for prizes against other couples as you explore the Venice area by bike. Reservations are required at www.outoftheboxevents.net at the cost of $25.

 

Cirque du Soleil is performing on the Santa Monica Pier through March 11^th. Tickets to this mesmerizing aquatic and acrobatic show are on sale for as low as $40, granted you may want to bring binoculars. The performance has received rave reviews and the local show opportunity is a rare occasion, perfect for Valentine’s Day.

 

Sur la Table is offering a Valentine’s Chocolate Workshop at their Santa Monica location on February 12^th. Featuring decadent recipes and desserts, this workshop is a fun and tasty way to spend Valentine’s weekend and some one-on-one time as a couple.

 

The mellow and sweet singer-songwriter, Colbie Caillet, is performing in Thousand Oaks on Valentine’s Day. Her acoustic sound is perfect for a romantic ambiance and a concert is always a winner in my date book. Tickets can be bought through Ticketmaster.

 

And whether you’re single, long-distance, or refuse to buy into the often-labeled “greeting card” holiday, there’s still an opportunity to declare February 14^th a girl’s night. Many restaurants will be featuring great meal and drink specials, not to mention wide arrays of desserts. So treat yourselves to a night out instead of staying in and getting caught up in another sappy rom-com. “GALentine’s Day” is just as fabulous as any date night!