Plan your Valentine’s Day in DC

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, many will be looking for a nice place to go for the evening. The big day is a Sunday too, so there’s plenty of opportunities to have a great weekend in the city. Seeking out unique events and fun presents are easy in this city and it will make for a Valentine’s Day to remember.

Before Valentine’s Day kicks off, singles can drown their sorrows with a bar crawl themed around the city. This takes place in Dupont Circle on the 6th of February and is the perfect way to have an anti-Valentine’s Day. There are prizes, gifts and even beads for participating members. Even if you’re not single, you can participate as well.

There are few things more exciting and romantic as ice skating and you can do so at the outdoor skating rink. The Sculpture Garden is one of the best places to do so, as it boasts long opening hours and good prices. The rink is open from November through March, though it gets busiest at Christmas and Valentine’s Day. It’s open any day that the weather is above -20C, so there’s plenty of time to go and get involved.

If you’re looking for that perfect present for your loved one, then you’ll be happy to know that there are a number of artisanal chocolate stores within the city. Chocolate Chocolate is one of the many in the city but their wares will be sure to delight the recipient. If you have a loved one with dietary restrictions, then you can choose from their nut free and dairy free options. There are also flower shops in the same area too, so you can get everything you need in one place in downtown DC.

Those with an interest in gadgets and invention can head to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello on the 13th of February. That weekend they’re showcasing a number of his original inventions and gadgets that broke ground in their time, which is a must for any history buff. You’ll be able to see the things that he pioneered, including his system for copying writing, which was engineered with an easel that tracked the writer’s pen.

Anyone looking to raise money for a good cause over the weekend can join in on Cupid’s Undie Run in their themed underwear. The 1.75 mile run raises money for the Children’s Tumor Foundation, which is a charitable organization. The race starts at 2pm and all of the proceeds go to charity, so it’s a bit of fun with an added twist.

One of the more unique ways to spend your Valentine’s Day is by playing on a scavenger hunt in an art museum. You’ll work in teams to find specific paintings using the clues at your disposal and the winners will even get a prize at the end of the day. This is a team event but solo guests are welcomed and will be placed in teams with other attendees.  There are plenty of fun activities in the DC area whether you celebrate Valentine’s Day or not!