Oh, Valentine’s Day. It’s the time of year people not coupled up love to hate. If you’re in a couple, you’re probably trying not to seem too happy/in love to avoid annoying your single friends. But don’t worry, it’s possible to find the perfect balance between an over–the–top love fest and a night in. The perfect solution: paint the town red—Philly has some great events and venues that are the perfect level of cute.
Here are the best things happening in the City of (Brotherly) Love on the day of looove.
Sweetheart Skate
Dilworth Park, 4 – 8 p.m.
The Sweetheart Skate located at Dilworth Park may just be the perfect Valentine’s date. The skating rink offers two–for–one admission on the 14th. It’s centrally located in the middle of Center City, meaning you can go for a romantic dinner post–skate. And holding hands while trying not to fall may just be the most cheesy but adorable activity you can do.
Shakespeare in Love: Open Mic Poetry Night
Parkway Central Library, 6 – 8 p.m.
The Shakespeare in Love poetry night is an annual event hosted by the Free Library of Philadelphia. The event is hosted in the Skyline Room, which boasts sweeping views of the Philly skyline at night. If you don’t have the words to say, let the great poets of the past do it for you.
Casablanca Screening
The Philadelphia Film Center, 7 p.m.
Enjoy one of the most romantic films of all time on the most romantic day of the year. Before the film begins, enjoy live music from a local musician and pick up a cocktail or snacks from the theater’s cafe.
Valentinos Comedy Show
Good Good Comedy Theater, 8 and 9:30 p.m.
If you have a funny valentine, you may want to check out this stand–up comedy show featuring some of the best comedic talent in Philadelphia. Plus, they’re giving free beer to everyone in attendance.
Michael Henderson Valentine Love Concert
World Cafe Live, 8 p.m.
4–time Grammy nominee Michael Henderson is taking the stage at World Cafe Live to celebrate love with songs about, well, love. The artist is best known for playing bass with Miles Davis in the '70s, so some jazz tunes can be expected. The venue is walkable from campus, and is definitely an underutilized resource by Penn students—now’s the perfect time to change that!
Valentine’s Resistance
Love City Brewing Company, 7 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Seeing as this spot right outside of Chinatown is called Love City, it makes sense that they’re celebrating V–Day in a big way. The event will feature live music, food, and alcohol. Beer and specialty cocktails will be flowing all night with no cover for entrance.
Couples, let the love fest begin. Single people, pair up with a friend and check these events out too!
