We completely understand if the thought of V-Day fills you with rage and cynicism, so know this: you’re not alone. While it may seem like the whole town is getting swept up in a nauseating flurry of all things romantic and pink, there’s plenty to do this weekend that isn’t about love.
1. Rock on to great music at The Gathering
If you ask us, it’s the biggest event of the week. Who cares about the frou-frou Hallmark worship when you can be bobbing to indie acts such as Belle & Sebastian, tUnE-yArDs and Caribou?
2. Laugh your heart out
Pangdemonium’s latest production, Circle Mirror Transformation, is spot on with its comedic timing and almost feels as though it was written just for the cast. It’s your last chance to catch this play about a bunch of strangers coming together in an acting class.
3. Get noshing
Round up other single friends and huddle around a bubbling hotpot or a rib-sticking barbecue while you celebrate the lack of a date on V-Day. Psst, see our suggestions for communal dining here.
4. Party away
You don't need a date to paint the town red. We’ve got UK garage prodigy Todd Edwards in town, and even Zouk is staying away from V-Day madness with its collab with Vision Tokyo. Get the whole list of parties here.
5. Curl up with a movie
Don’t worry, there’s still a good list of non-sappy movies in cinemas right now. Check out A Most Violent Year if you're into crime films, or Unbroken, Angelina Jolie's new flick, to feel inspired by the tenacity of the human spirit. Heck, it might even be worth watching Fifty Shades of Grey to laugh at its cheesiness.
For another dim view of Valentine’s Day, read Artichoke chef Bjorn Shen’s column on why he ‘loves’ the occasion.