Whether you’re single, taken or somewhere in between, celebrating Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be complicated. This year, commemorate the month of love with friends or a partner at these unique events.
Enjoy live music with the Calgary Jazz Orchestra
When: February 8
Placing soulful sounds centre stage, the Calgary Jazz Orchestra presents the Art of Romance, Art of Soul. Inspired by music from the Great American Songbook, the event celebrates the month of love through Motown classics and modern funk songs.
Bella Concert Hall, 18 Mt Royal Cir. S.W., 403-440-7770, calgaryjazzorchestra.com
Wander around a Valentine’s-inspired showcase at cSPACE
When: February 12
Kick off the weekend with Love Letters, a Valentine-inspired showcase that features four floors of art, music and events at cSpace Marda Loop. Bring your friend or a date to enjoy activities like silent auctions, local music, art demonstrations and a photo gallery that celebrates the month of love.
cSpace Marda Loop, 1721 29 Ave. S.W., 403-476-2025, cspacemardaloop.com
Watch a tragic romance performed by Alberta Ballet
When: February 12 to 14
Spend Valentine’s weekend revisiting a famous love story with the Canadian premiere of Romeo and Juliet. Alberta Ballet brings Shakespeare’s classic and tragic tale to life, promising grand duets, sword fights and a love story that will sweep across the stage.
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, 1415 14 Ave. N.W., 403-297-8000, albertaballet.com
Learn about the power of touch and tension at Spark After Dark
When: February 13
Turn up the heat with Telus Spark’s first Spark After Dark event of the year. Heart, Heat and Body explores the power of sensations and the magnetic energy of touch and tension. The adults-only event includes an infrared photobooth, an exothermic demonstration, a live DJ and more.
220 St Georges Dr. N.E., 403-817-6800, sparkscience.ca
Listen to a Spanish-inspired rhapsody with the Calgary Philharmonic
When: February 13 and 14
Conducted by Natalia Ponomarchuk, the Calgary Philharmonic is ready to transport lovers with music by Maurice Ravel. Romantic Ravel is a captivating orchestra show you can enjoy this Valentine’s Day weekend.
Jack Singer Concert Hall, 205 8 Ave S.E., 403-571-0849, calgaryphil.com
Spend Valentine’s Day at an afternoon wine rave
When: February 14
Celebrate the release of Cold Garden’s newest wines at Love at First Sip, an afternoon wine rave that’s sure to liven up your Valentine’s Day. This love-themed event features wine samples, a live DJ, a wine and cheese pairing station, a Valentine’s Day card station and more.
1100 11 St. S.E., 403-764-2653, coldgarden.ca
Watch a romantic movie at The Grand
When: February 14
Why not revisit the classic movie date? At The Grand, fall in love again at the movies with a screening of Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 film Romeo + Juliet. Grab some popcorn, treats or a themed cocktail before the feature film rolls.
608 1 St. S.W., 403-205-2922, thegrandyyc.ca
Dine and dance at The Attic
When: February 14
Allow yourself to be serenaded by a live band this Valentine’s Day. Lovers Under the Covers at The Attic is a live music event with a soulful, eight-piece band. Enjoy a three-course meal while revisiting love songs hailing from the 1970s to the 2010s.
1413 9 Ave. S.E., 403-475-4741, theatticyyc.ca
Attend a love-inspired concert at Studio Bell
When: February 14
Dive into a night of music with All’s Fair in Love: Songs for Situationships and Soulmates. The concert features a two-part setlist, highlighting classic love hits and heartbreaking ballads from familiar favourites like Stevie Wonder and Al Green. Come early and enjoy a Valentine’s-themed photo booth, a candy bar and more.
Studio Bell, 850 4 St. S.E., 403-543-5115, studiobell.ca
Sip on tea brewed with love at Lougheed House
When: February 14 and 15
Celebrate Valentine’s Day over a warm pot of tea at the historic Loughheed House. Explore the museum before tucking into a traditional afternoon tea experience with your friends that includes bites like smoked salmon mousse, curried chicken salad blini, matcha shortbread, Earl Grey Swiss roll and more.
707 13 Ave. S.W., 403-244-6333, lougheedhouse.com