Valentine's Day 2013 in San Francisco is inspiring parties, public confessions, art, introspection, biological discussions, romantic dinners and of course conflicting emotions and anti-Valentine's outbursts. Here's a list of some of them, starting with Valentine's-themed events and activities, and then cruises and dining options. Plan ahead, because the Valentine's Day celebrating begins a week before February 14. If you're searching for just the right something to give to your sweetie, check our Valentine's Day gifts guide for ideas.
VALENTINE'S DAY PARTIES & EVENTS
Food from the Heart
Feb. 8, at 5-7:30 pm; and Feb. 9
The Ferry Building’s market turns romantic Friday evening with candles, tango dancing, classical music and tastings of chocolate, hors d'oeuvres and Napa wines, to benefit Slow Food San Francisco. Saturday offers music and valentine specials.
At the Ferry Building, the Embarcadero. Free admission; tastings $2-6.
Doomed Valentines Show
Feb. 8 & 9, at 7:30 pm
The show of embarrassing confessionals reaches its annual climax this month--love, after all, is responsible for some of the best, worst, oddest and most awkward moments of our lives. Brave, grown adults take the stage to reveal their most mortifying, true love stories. See, your love life isn't so bad! Plus contests, improv hip hop from The Freeze, and post-show DJs.
Feb. 8: DNA Lounge, 375 11th St., San Francisco 94103; tickets $14, 21. Feb. 9: The Uptown, 1928 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley 94612; tickets $15, 20.
On the Edge: Erotic Photography Exhibition
Feb. 8-10
Hundreds of photos displayed and for sale, along with fashion shows of leather and metal-studded garb, pole dancing and rope bondage demonstrations.
At Gallery 4N5, 863 Mission St., San Francisco. Ages 21+. Admission $5 on Feb. 8 & 9; free on Feb. 10.
Madly in Love with Me: Self-Love Concert
Feb. 13, at 7 pm
The love of your life is you, so author and spiritual coach Christine Arylo talks about how to boost your self-love and reduce your self-criticism and self-sabotage. Inspirational songs, poetry and meditation, too. The event will also be video-streamed online.
At Oakland Center For Spiritual Living, 5000 Clarewood Dr., Oakland 94618. Free, but donations welcome.
Heroes & Hearts
Dana King's heart, "Global Prescription." Photo courtesy of Heroes & Hearts.
Feb. 14, at 11:30 am-1:30 pm
A fundraising lunch for San Francisco General Hospital, which operates San Francisco's only trauma center. Community heroes are honored, and decorated heart sculptures made by local artists are unveiled. Eight giant hearts will be installed around town; five hearts (25 pounds each) are up for sale at the luncheon.
At AT&T Park. Tickets $300 and up. Info: Contact Katie Moe, (415) 206-5928 or kmoe@sfghf.net.
Build-A-Vibe Workshop
Feb. 14, at 5-11 pm
Crave, a start-up manufacturer of vibrators for women, marks its official launch with a DIY hour-long workshop. Learn how its Duet vibrator was invented, assemble one yourself and add a personal engraving. Mingle with Crave’s founders over refreshments.
At The NWBLK, 1999 Bryant St., San Francisco 94110. Tickets $75 (includes workshop admission for two people; one vibrator).
Valentine's Day Pillow Fight
Feb. 14, at 6 pm
Here’s one Val Day event that both those in and out of love can do: Swat other people with pillows (playfully, lovingly, or not so much). And here’s one time to opt for synthetic over feather-stuffed pillows (the latter cause potential breathing problems and a huge mess).
At Justin Herman Plaza, Market St. & the Embarcadero, San Francisco. Free.
Returning Cupid’s Fire
Feb. 14, at 7-9 pm
Bay Area stand-up comedians whisk you to the Anti-Valentine’s Universe, the one place where Cupid is not only unwelcome but actually attacked.
At the Cartoon Art Museum, 655 Mission St., San Francisco 94105. Admission $10; 2-for-1 for museum members.
Some Day My Prince Will Come
Feb. 14, at 7–10 pm
He did in Disney films, so he ought to during the Disney museum’s after-hours party, which features a Valentine scavenger hunt and love-themed Disney shorts playing on a big screen. If he doesn’t, the consolation is a Prince Charming cocktail.
At the Walt Disney Family Museum, 104 Montgomery St., The Presidio. Ages 18+. Admission: $12 general public; $8 museum members.
Eternity Ball
Comedian Jeff Applebaum. Photo courtesy of Jeff Applebaum.
Feb. 14, at 7-11 pm
An elegant party for singles and couples where bridesmaid and wedding gowns of all eras are part of the dress code. Buffet dinner, drinks, photos, and dancing to a live band and a DJ are included. Comedian Jeff Applebaum emcees.
At Marines' Memorial Club, 609 Sutter St., San Francisco 94102. Ages 21+. Tickets $100, 125.
