For the many Boston University love birds looking to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day date, but are having trouble thinking outside the typical “expensive restaurant and roses” box, Boston offers a unique range of Valentine-themed events that range from lingerie shows to raging punk rock concerts.
Who said Valentine’s Day was only for couples?
For many people, a lonely Valentine’s Day means quality time with the remote control and Ben ‘ Jerry’s. But for the organizers of Boston’s Valentine Flirt Fest, singles can also join in on the holiday fun.
For the past six years, singles have enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere and lively social scene at the event. The evening begins with a cocktail reception where guests can enjoy a special Valentine’s Day martini provided by Pearl Vodka.
Following the cocktails is a lingerie fashion show featuring new designs from Boston’s Julianna Rae, owner of a sleepware and lingerie boutique, as well as plenty of dancing.
The highlight of the evening comes with the coronation of Boston’s biggest flirts – both male and female – and the listing of the year’s best and worst pick up lines.
Event fashion director Devin Bramhall expects this Tuesday’s Flirt Fest to be just as popular as past years.
“We sell out every year,” she said, adding that couples and friends can have as much fun as singles.
The all-inclusive event is $14 in advance and $20 at the door and lasts from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. and takes place at The Saint.
This Bud’s For You, Sweetie
Coordinators for the Lonely Heart’s Valentine’s Dinner know that, deep down, college students have only one true love: beer.
For $35, Cambridge Common Restaurant and Middle Ages Brewing Company will indulge attendees’ love for cold alcoholic comfort and even provide drinking partners.
“Drinking beer is different than consuming any other kind of alcohol,” said organizer Suzanne Schalow. “There is something about it that’s very relaxing and socially conducive.”
Drinkers will have time to mingle before sitting down for a dinner that includes entrees such as pecan- encrusted pork tenderloin and mushroom stroganoff. By the time guests are done tasting the four ales, lagers, stouts and other beers provided with the four-course meal, there is no telling how relaxed and socially charming you may be.
The reception begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Cambridge Common Restaurant.
Hip-Hop Has a Heart
Want to impress a Valentine? Show him or her that big hearts go along with stellar dance moves by checking out the Hearts 4 Hip Hop fundraiser at Harper’s Ferry in Allston.
Boston hip-hop personalities Jezebel and Crazy Nice serve as the event hosts, and entertainment is provided by local performers ready to impress guests with new and old dance floor anthems.
And even when stealing moves from the guys standing next to them, attendees can feel good that the $10 cover charge is benefiting 10 Boston and Cambridge-based children’s charities.
Doors open at 7 p.m. and the event is 21-plus.
Rock on Lovers!
For those looking for a Valentine’s Day with an edge, they’ll have to await until the day after as the 4th Annual St. Valentine’s Day Massacre concert is not scheduled until Feb. 15.
There are no candles or teddy bears at this event – only long hair, spiky chains and plenty of classic punk rock.
Bastards of Young, which features members of Boston’s famed Dropkick Murphys, will perform covers from Chuck Berry to The Stooges to The Clash, and will be assisted by DJ Adam Shaw of the local group the Lost City Angels.
The show takes place at Great Scott’s in Allston and doors open at 9 p.m. with a $7 cover charge.