Be Mine OutRVA
It’s February and that means love is in the air. Whether you’re seeking love, in a new relationship or trying to remember how many years it’s been, Richmond knows exactly how to remind you why the capital of Virginia is for lovers.
Start your Valentine’s weekend off early with a sweet treat and a visit to Carytown Cupcakes. Starting February 9th you can pick up a half dozen cupcake roses in a long-stem rose box, but between 5pm and 7pm on Friday Carytown Cupcakes will also have a free photo booth stocked with props in order to help you capture the moment perfectly.
While breakfast in bed may be the traditional way to show your valentine that you care, consider something a little more memorable this year. RVA Pancake Love is a brunch event held at the Broadberry from 9:30am-12:30pm that serves pancakes that are by all means works of art. For those with intolerance, gluten-free pancakes are also available. The heart-red theme continues into the Bloody Marys and mimosas available by the glass or full pitcher. If that wasn’t enough to get you feel the love, as 100 percent of the profits from the event are donated to FeedMore, a non-profit organization dedicated to help end hunger here in Richmond.
Richmond has more than its fair share of notable restaurants, and over the holiday weekend many will be offering a special or prix fixe menu and special entrees for the holiday. From two to five course dinners, oysters to wines, and Cary to Main Street, the list of restaurants includes Richmond classics like The Tobacco Company, The Boathouse, and Wild Ginger. Virginia cuisine is nationally recognized, and the full force of its flavor abounds during the romantic holiday.
There is more than just food in Virginia’s capital city. Custom engraver, Big Secret, has recently moved into a new studio and will be celebrating with drinks, games, prizes, and live music from one man band, Gull during their Admirer event on Friday starting at 6pm. If’ you’ve never seen their work, prepare to hold your jaw shut.
If you enjoy theater the School of Performing Arts in the Richmond Community will be putting on their interpretation of A New Brain: In Concert. The show features the uplifting story of a composer as he journeys through a medical ordeal. While not particular to Valentine’s Day, this Sunday show begins at 2pm and is a perfect way to wind down after a long weekend.
For those of us who don’t have a certain someone to celebrate this romantic weekend with, there are plenty of Anti-Valentine’s Day events to get your mind off your solo status. If you’re feeling especially rugged, check out Babes of Carytown for their Lumber and Lace party. Featuring the best flannel clad friends your foraging can find, Babes will keep you entertained with a live DJ and door prizes for all of those willing to button up for their second annual Flannel Friday Lumberjack style party.
Richmond is home to some of the finest craft breweries in Virginia, including Center of the Universe Brewing, located just north of the city. In spite of the holiday they will be tapping two special kegs of Imperial Stout to go along with their Anti-Valentine’s Day Party Saturday at 1pm. Featuring live music, southern food, and an assortment of solo compatriots, you’ll enjoy what could otherwise be considered a regular Saturday night.
If dancing is more your style, consider visiting Strange Matter for a night of dark dancing presented by ANIMAL. Another way to go against the grain while still celebrating the weekend, this event is specifically LGBT friendly and will ensure even the darkest hearts are made to content.
There are plenty of ways to strengthen your relationship not only with your significant other, but also with your city this holiday weekend. So make the most of your Valentine’s Day and check out as much of what Richmond has to offer as you can.