It’s coming up on that special time of year.  The time where you reflect on the one you love and how they’ve changed your life.  Valentine’s Day.  Or, as my friends like to call it, Singles Awareness Day (awesome name, unfortunate acronym). 

Single or not, there are plenty of reasonable ways to celebrate without resorting to cupid cutouts and pink streamers.  Fun ways.  Ways that don’t make you feel like shit.  If you’re part of that elite group that thinks Valentine’s Day is lame, grab a few friends and try one of these ideas.  It may become your new favourite holiday!

Horror Movie Marathon
A friend of mine started doing this in high school, and it’s remained one of my favourite Valentine’s Day activities.  After all, blood is red, right?  How festive!  You can even pick a theme within the genre to narrow your focus.  Slasher flicks are always a good choice, as are classic B movies (Monkey Shines anyone?).  If you’re having trouble choosing, consult the experts at Happy Bats Cinema or Reel Bulldog Video.

The People’s Prom
Vancouver’s original eff you to Valentine’s Day is back.  The People’s Prom is an annual fundraising party that brings back high school with an East Van twist.  All proceeds from the $10 tickets go to grassroots movements around the city.  Prom wear is required, so dust off your tacky prom dress and get ready to boogie!

Beer My Valentine
Anything with this much beer is likely to be more raucous than romantic.  Just Here for the Beer is hosting their fourth Beer My Valentine, an annual pairing of beer and chocolate at Granville Island Brewery.  There’s a live band and plenty of time to groove after the pairing is over.  Or, host your own beer and chocolate pairing party.  You can do the pairing yourself, or ask each guest to bring a couple unique brews. 

~ Meghan Roberts