Roses, chocolate, candlelit dinner. For the people who gagged at one or more of those things, there is hope for this February 14.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be spent taking a romantic stroll or eating an expensive meal in a dimly lit restaurant.
Or, for the singles out there, it doesn’t have to be spent binge watching Grey’s Anatomy for the third time. Des Moines offers a slew of Valentine events, from the funny to the artsy to the healthy.
Single or in a relationship, these events will let you enjoy the day in a new way.
Hearts Against Humanity
This is the Des Moines Social Club’s third year hosting this fun event for the singles or couples that don’t want a mushy Valentine’s dinner.
The event includes a team-style Cards Against Humanity tournament, where tables of 6 compete in the card game that is almost guaranteed to get a belly laugh out of you.
During the night, Fong’s Pizza will be serving appetizers and Molly’s Cupcakes will have dessert. The night also includes door prizes, a surprise from sponsor NoCoast Beer Co, and a comedy set from Dante Powell.
“It’s a fun event for us to do since there’s so much humor involved. People are playing Cards Against Humanity, which kind of pushes the envelope,” says fundraising and volunteer manager Katie Ortman. “It’s a really comedy-focused event and gives us the opportunity to do things we wouldn’t usually do.”
Time: February 14, doors open at 7:00, game starts at 8:00
Cost: $25 per person, $140 per table of six
Couple’s Yoga Social
What better way to relax than with wine and yoga? Jasper Winery and New U are partnering to put on three Valentine’s-themed yoga events for couples, singles, and families.
Each couples ticket includes sangria, a cheese plate, and a flower along with a short yoga class to let you relax and reconnect.
A portion of the proceeds will go toward NewU classes for terminally ill patients in the Des Moines Area.
Bring your partner and your mat, and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard from the comfort of your downward dog.
(Psst! For those without a S/O, Jasper Winery is hosting a single’s yoga social on February 10 and family yoga on February 12. Cost is $20 per single and $20 per family.)
Time: February 14, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $40 per couple
LOVE Acrylic Class
This Palek Studio event is perfect for Valentine’s and Galentine’s alike. Gather up your date, some friends, or come solo and meet likeminded Valentine painters while creating something you’ll be able to take home at the end.
No painting experience? No problem. The class will give you step-by-step instructions to create a personalized piece of artwork to commemorate the day.
All supplies, including food and refreshments, are included, but you’re welcome to BYOB.
Time: February 14, 6 p.m.
Cost: $35 online, $40 at the door
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You can check out each of these events on their websites, but act fast and order tickets before they all sell out and you’re stuck at Red Lobster on the most romantic day of the year.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be as cliché as the movies make it seem. It can be fun, adventurous, and a little outside your comfort zone.
Or, you know, it could be just another Tuesday.
