By Elizabeth Edwards
Whether you’re a lover of love or a little lovesick, the District has something for everyone this Valentine’s Day. Here is your guide to the best love-inspired activities the city has to offer.
For animal lovers: Smithsonian National Zoo’s ‘Woo at the Zoo’
The Smithsonian National Zoo’s Valentine’s Day festivity, Woo at the Zoo, is the perfect date night for District couples. The event will include presentations on animal mating and dancing at an 80’s-themed prom. Tickets include a complimentary dessert and one drink ticket for a specialty cocktail, beer or wine.
Feb. 14, 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Smithsonian National Zoo. Tickets $50 for Zoo members and $60 for non-members, 21+ event, fonz.org.
For dancing and romancing: Embassy of Italy’s ‘A Night in Verona’
The Embassy of Italy is throwing a Valentine’s Ball that is set to bring a slice of Italian romance to D.C. for the holiday of love. The theme, ‘A Night in Verona,’ will provide all the romance of “Romeo and Juliet” along with music, dancing and authentic Italian food, which are bound to prevent the night from ending in heartbreak. A portion of the proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society.
Feb. 14, 7:00 p.m. to 11:50 p.m., Embassy of Italy. Tickets $89-$124, embassyexperiences.com.
For art lovers
Transformer’s 4th Annual Heartbreakers Ball is coming to the Line Hotel this Valentine’s Day. The Ball supports up-and-coming artists and debuts works from Transformer’s FlatFile Program, which showcases pieces in two-dimensional mediums. Join Transformer for a celebration of love and art, with karaoke, a pop-up store and soft-sculpture installations. Tickets include one complimentary glass of champagne. Proceeds support Transformer’s mission to connect and support new artists in D.C.
Feb. 14, 7:00 pm to 11:00 p.m., the LINE DC. Tickets $25 per person or $40 per couple, https://www.eventbrite.com/e/transformers-4th-annual-heartbreakers-ball-tickets-89103335475
For a romantic staycation: All you Need is Love (& Wine) at Thompson Washington D.C.
Sometimes the best getaway is closer than you think. The All You Need is Love (& Wine) package at Thompson Washington D.C. offers a romantic, waterfront escape without having to leave the comfort of the District. It includes a wine tasting and bottle of wine to-go at the neighboring District Winery and a complimentary treat back at your room.
Thompson Washington D.C. Romance Package $194, hyatt.com.
For a true stories about love
Story District’s 12th annual Sucker for Love Valentine’s Day special features eight local storytellers sharing their stories of falling in and out of love. This is a perfect event to attend whether you’re with a partner, with friends, or flying solo.
Feb. 14, 8:00 p.m. Doors at 6:30 p.m., Lincoln Theatre. Tickets $30-$40, thelincolndc.com.
For a taste of love: Boqueria’s Valentine’s Day Menu
Spanish tapas bar Boqueria is showcasing romance by way of food with their special themed holiday menus. Guests have a choice between three prix-fixe menus inspired by love. Whether you choose The Classic Love Story, The Three Little Words, The Grand Gesture, or decide to go with the No Commitment and pick from the a la carte menu, dishes like Jamon Ibe?rico and Carne a la Plancha are guaranteed to impress.
Feb. 13-15, Boqueria (Penn Quarter and Dupont Circle). Prix-fixe menus $49-$70 per person. boqueriarestaurant.com.
For a flirty gift: Hanky Panky’s Thong Rose Bouquet
Interested in a flirty twist on the classic Valentine’s Day bouquet of roses? Look no further than Hanky Panky’s Thong Rose Bouquet. This gift has the timeless class of a traditional bouquet of roses while adding that little something extra.
Available now, $150. hankypanky.com.
For a fresh start with love: S’more app
If you were unlucky in love this Valentine’s Day, give it another shot with S’more (a.k.a Something More), the newest dating app available in Washington, D.C. S’more prioritizes getting to know someone before matching with them, in order to dispel the superficial swiping culture.
Available now on the App Store. Free, apple.com.
