So you’re not celebrating Valentine’s Day this year. It could be because, like the better part of DC, you’re single and loathe the seasonal reminder of said single status. Or perhaps it’s because you’re not single, but your boyfriend refuses to be controlled by a commercial-driven, money-making agenda when he’s perfectly capable of remembering to show love year ‘round all on his own (this is obviously not my circumstance, I just hear that it happens to … other people). Or maybe you’re just over it. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of awesome ways to enjoy the 14th of February, formerly known as Valentine’s Day, on the Hill.
Start the day by heading to Matchbox to watch our very own John Wall of the Washington Wizards battle it out with Stephen Curry in a one-on-one contest at 10:30 am, kicking off the NBA All-Star Weekend. If you’re not up for basketball first thing in the morning, you could also head out to Willie’s at night to watch Wall participate in the All-Star Skills Challenge.
Or grab a group of your best buds and head out for brunch. Honestly, how many things in life are better than a good brunch? Beuchert’s, Ted’s, and Market Lunch will never do you wrong.
You don’t need a significant other to set the scene for pampering, either, you know. Love yourself with a spa day at Soleil 21, A- List Nails & Spa, or the new Aura Spa down in Navy Yard.
Apparently, it’s slim pickins to find karaoke on the Hill next Saturday, which really puts a damper on the suggestion to absolutely butcher some corny love songs or belt out a break-up ballad. It’s going to be on you to head to your favorite local bar, and steal the show without a stage or mike. Star & Shamrock, Molly Malone’s, and Little Miss Whiskey’s are always good choices.
For the total anti-Valentine’s Day crusader in you, pop into Atlas Arcade and indulge in some cheap beers and violent arcade games.
Of course, you could always meet Valentine’s Day February 14th in the middle. You could give love and get love in some less commercialized, less stuff-chocolate-down-your-throat ways.
Donate to Project Playtime, an organization that provides homeless youth in DC opportunities to engage in fun activities, munch on healthy snacks, and just be a kid. A list of needed items is available on their website, or you can take just a couple of minutes to donate money. If you’re really feeling lovey, you could also sign up to become a regular volunteer, which requires just a two hour a week commitment to organize arts and crafts, and PLAY.
Donate games to schools on the Hill at Labyrinth games. Or give old/unused clothes to many of the drop-off locations in the neighborhood. Or donate to help support the incredible programs at the Hill Center and Capitol Hill Arts Workshop.
The day also presents a really great opportunity to put some love back into our neighborhood. Anywhere on the Hill, spread kindness and love by paying it forward. Give up a parking space, pick up the coffee tab for the patron next to you, give the lingerer in front of you at the green light an extra second before laying on your horn.
Whatever you decide to do, make sure you enjoy yourself on that day – you deserve it.
Love this. Cheers, Katherine!