‘Love is stupid.’ 12 ways for singles to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Tacoma
For those of us who aren’t seeing anyone this Valentine’s Day, there are still a few things to do in and around Tacoma, whether you’re looking to have fun with friends or take yourself on a solo date.
Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, so lots of events are happening the day before and the day of.
Events on Friday, Feb. 13:
‘80s concert at McMenamins
- 565 Broadway, Tacoma
- 253-300-8744
- https://www.mcmenamins.com/events/273782-nite-wave-presents-the-cure-depeche-mode-new-order-tribute-night
Nite Wave will be performing at McMenamins Spanish Ballroom on Friday night. The band will cover a number of ‘80s hits, specifically from The Cure, Depeche Mode and New Order. The concert starts at 8:45 p.m., and doors open at 8 p.m. The show is 21+, and tickets are $31.
“Eff Valentine’s Day” Paint and NA Sip at Artsi Creative Space
- 2323 Tacoma Ave. S., Tacoma
- 601-790-0868
- https://www.eventbrite.com/e/eff-valentines-day-paint-along-na-sip-tickets
“Love is stupid. Let’s get together and celebrate being single. Paint this skull with me,” reads the advertisement for this event.
No experience is necessary for this paint and sip, which will feature a hands-on lesson from an artist as you create your own painting. All supplies will be provided, including a 11 x 14 inch canvas and paint. Artsi Creative Space will offer nonalcoholic drinks. Tickets are $60.
Be My Valentine Adoption Event
- 2608 Center St., Tacoma
- 253-383-2733
- https://www.facebook.com/events/1734963634575673/?
Find your pet soulmate this Valentine’s Day at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. From Thursday through Saturday, the Humane Society is offering $14 adoption fees for all dogs, cats and rabbits. “If you’ve been waiting for the love of your life, this is the perfect time to bring them home! They’ll love you unconditionally, steal your spot on the couch, and be thrilled to see you every single day. Honestly? Green flags only,” reads the event advertisement. Those interested can see all adoptable pets on the Humane Society’s website.
Galentine’s Day Craft Night at Tacoma Armory
- 1001 S. Yakima Ave., Tacoma
- 253-346-1721
- https://www.instagram.com/p/DTJnKyigWQX/?source=ecat
Galentine’s Day celebrates the gal pals in our lives, rather than our romantic partners. Luv-a-Latte Espresso in Tacoma has put together a craft night at the Tacoma Armory to celebrate the occasion, featuring a build-your-own bouquet station, custom keychain making and a bracelet bar. They’ll also have a station to get permanent jewelry. Festivities start at 6 p.m. Tickets are $45 if you’re on your own, and $75 for two people.
‘Wuthering Heights’ at theaters near you
A new film adaptation of the Emily Brontë novel premieres Friday, directed by Emerald Fennell and starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. The story takes place in 18th century England, depicting the passionate relationship between Catherine Earnshaw, played by Robbie, and Heathcliff, played by Elordi.
While the film premieres nationwide on Friday, you can see it in theaters starting Thursday. There are plenty of showtimes throughout Pierce County, including at The Grand Cinema in Tacoma, Cinemark Point Ruston and Regal Lakewood.
Events on Saturday, Feb. 14
Build-A-Bouquet at Ebony and Ivory Coffee
- 1145 Broadway, Tacoma
- 253-292-9442
- https://www.instagram.com/p/DUYZ4LOjXT8/?img_index=1
This cafe in downtown Tacoma will host a bouquet-building event the morning of Valentine’s Day, from 8-11 a.m. “Grab your girlies, or swing by to create a memorable gift for your partner,” the cafe posted on Instagram.
Burlesque show at McMenamins
- 565 Broadway, Tacoma
- 253-300-8744
- https://www.mcmenamins.com/events/273827-bottoms-up-a-cheeky-valentines-spectacular
“‘Bottoms Up,’ a Cheeky Valentine’s Spectacular,” is coming to the Spanish Ballroom at McMenamins. The show is presented by PNW Burlesque, and guests can expect burlesque and circus performers in “an unforgettable evening of glamour, comedy, and sultry entertainment in celebration of love, lust, and everything in between,” the event advertisement reads. Shows are at 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., and tickets start at $40.
Valentine’s Day Broozy Brunch Show at Tacoma Comedy Club
- 3829 6th Ave., Tacoma
- 253-282-7203
- https://www.tacomacomedyclub.com/shows/352742
Visitors can expect mimosas, other brunch fare and plenty of comedians performing at this Boozy Brunch Show. The show starts at 2:30 p.m. and doors open at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $18 for general admission, and $25 to be seated in the first couple of rows.
Valentine’s Day Pop-up Market at Trellis Boutique
- 16317 Pacific Ave S., Spanaway
- 253-352-1065
- https://www.facebook.com/events/trellis-boutique/valentines-day-pop-at-trellis-boutique/1601777257904304/
Trellis Boutique, a vintage shop in Spanaway, will host a pop-up market featuring several vendors. The shop sells home goods, clothes, refurbished furniture and floral arrangements. The pop-up market is free to the public and runs from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Galentine’s Day Comedy Brunch at HillTop A Go-Go
- 1016 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Tacoma
- https://www.eventbrite.com/e/galentines-day-comedy-brunch-at-hilltop-a-go-go-tickets-1979582786403
This karaoke bar in Tacoma will be hosting a comedy brunch, “specifically designed for besties to enjoy a day of laughter, great food, drinks and music.” The event runs from 1-3 p.m., and doors open at noon. General admission tickets are $23, while tickets including a brunch buffet are $45. Tickets including brunch must be purchased by Thursday at 10 p.m., and limited brunch tickets might be available at the door.
Love at the Zoo
- Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, 5400 N. Pearl St., Tacoma
- 253-404-3800
- https://www.pdza.org/event/love-at-the-zoo/
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium will host Love at the Zoo this weekend, featuring animals enjoying heart-shaped toys. Visitors can expect a heart scavenger hunt to discover fun facts about different animals and a chance to make zoo-themed Valentines. The event runs Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and is free with admission. Tickets to the zoo are available online.
Farm to Table Chocolate and Cacao Cooking Class
- Encocoa Chocolate Studio, 2301 Pacific Ave, Tacoma
- https://allevents.in/tacoma/farm-to-table-chocolate-and-cacao-cooking-class/100001982399268577
Try your hand at making your own chocolate goodies this Valentine’s Day with a cooking class presented by Encocoa in Tacoma. Visitors will learn about cocoa farming and make their own sweet and savory treats with chocolate and cacao nibs. The event is 18+ and starts at 2 p.m. Tickets are $94.