Ok sure, you could do the same thing you do every year on Valentine’s Day: make reservations way in advance at that restaurant you both like, and sit among cramped tables for two in a room full of couples making awkward conversation, while the waiter tries to move you out as quickly as possible so the next reservation can take your spot. OR, you could try something a little different this year to celebrate the occasion, with one of our top picks for an alternative Valentine experience. Flowers and chocolates are still recommended—those are never wrong. Even if you buy them for yourself.

 

ROMANCE NIGHT WALKING TOUR
Shubenacadie Wildlife Park
Saturday, February 8th at 7pm

An after-dark adult-only guided walk through the park to observe nature’s “frisky side”. Because there’s nothing like watching animals getting down to business for putting you in an amorous mood, right? Make sure you pre-register for this one.

 

 

HELLO CITY PRESENTS: LOVE LETTERS
Bus Stop Theatre
Wednesday, February 12th at 730pm

Improv inspired by YOUR love letters! Bring one from home or use their love letter making station, and wait to see your romantic life get the laugh track it deserves.

 

 

 

GALENTINE’S DAY FONDUE, WINE & MOVIE
Stubborn Goat Gastropub
Thursday, February 13th from 3-1130pm

One for the ladies who have better things to do on Valentine’s, like drink wine and watch 10 Things I Hate About You with a room full of new friends. Honourable mention to the Ladies Beer League’s I Heart Beer PJ Party.

 

 

VALENTINE AXE-THROWING DATE NIGHT
Timber Lounge
Friday, February 14th from 12-1130pm

This doesn’t sound like a bad idea at all, does it? Throw on some plaid and spend a couple of hours tossing axes, while sipping bubbly and nibbling on charcuterie.

 

 

 

TINDER TALES: A NOT-SO-VALENTINE’S SHOW
The Carleton
Thursday, February 13th at 8pm

A chance to laugh at somebody else’s dating stories for a change. A comedy show with local performers, and part of the proceeds going to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.

 

 

 

VALENTINE FLAMENCO SHOW AND DANCE
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts
Friday, February 14th at 8pm

They already had us with the hot-blooded flamenco, but then we found out about the Spanish dessert tasting, and that was it. Plus you get to learn (and show off) some latin dance moves after the show.

 

 

 

DISCOVER LOVE
Discovery Centre
Saturday, February 8th at 7pm

A truly adult-only experience, where pretty much everyone is bound to learn a few things about the science of sex. Expert talks, experiments, games and a burlesque show. We are a little worried about that penis dissection activity, though…

 

 

Looking for more Valentine activities? Check out our curated event listings, with only our top picks for things to do in and around the city.