Valentine’s Day can often be met with a sense of dread from single and taken people alike—at best it’s a money-making scheme via the greeting card companies, at worst it’s a reminder of life’s inherent loneliness. But don’t fret—Valentine’s day doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. There are plenty of things to do for both couples and singletons that can turn this holiday into a fun and carefree celebration of love in all its many forms.
Wash Park
Feb. 14, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Why not get some dopamine pumping with a nice 5K to start out your Valentine’s Day? The race is at Wash Park, super close to campus, and runners are encouraged to dress as a famous couple or dressed for a fancy date. The price for running as an individual is about $40, which is a bit steep, but a shirt and lots of fun race-day events are included.
4120 Brighton Blvd.
Feb. 12-13, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
For those looking for a somewhat less-traditional Valentine’s Day event, Valentine X is for you. Located at the 13th Floor, this Valentine’s-themed haunted house will leave you and your date and/or friends shaking with fright. Register soon, though, because tickets are going quickly.
Syntax Physic Opera
554 S. Broadway
Feb. 14, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For the crafty and creative out there, the perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day is at Sculpture Brunch, an event hosted at Syntax Physic Opera in which teams of two to six people create art pieces from various random materials while brunch, cocktails and coffee are served. Have a fun time with a date or some friends with food and art, and maybe even win a prize.
Denver Botanic Gardens
1007 York St.
Feb. 12, 13, 14, 20, 27
While roses most often come to mind when thinking about romantic flowers, the tropical variety certainly have their fair share of fun. Take a warm and colorful stroll through the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory with a tour focusing on aphrodisiacs and the romantic life of tropical plants. You’ll even get a souvenir to take home.
