Single in New York this Valentine's Day? Whether you're happily single or hoping to meet someone (or if you just don't want to deal with all the Valentine's Day hype) these five Anti-Valentine's Day events should not disappoint.
New York's Largest Singles Anti-Valentine's Day Party 2013
The Saturday before Valentine's Day, Meet Market Adventures will host an anti-Valentine's Day singles mixer in midtown with a young-professionals vibe. Highlights include free roses and chocolate, happy hour drink specials, and icebreaker games. Dress code: Business casual.
Croton Lounge, 108 W. 40th St / Feb. 9, 9:30 pm / $19.99 in advance, $30.00 at the door
The Moth StorySLAM: Love Hurts
Housing Works will host a storytelling slam from The Moth devoted to tales of doomed romance. Laugh, empathize, and "better yet, come prepared to share your own sad story and win some sympathy points," says New York Magazine's Michael Alan Connelly. Dress code: None.
Housing Works, 126 Crosby St / Feb. 12, 7:00 pm / $8 at the door
Mingle with a few hundred singles and help animals in the process. Fifty percent of profits from this anti-Valentine's mixer will go to Bideawee, and non-profit organization that helps stray cats and dogs find 'forever homes.' Highlights include free bellinis and mimosas for the ladies until 7:30 pm, free mini cupcakes, and free shots at the bar for cheesy pickup lines. Dress Code: Business casual.
49 Grove St / Feb. 14, 6:30 pm / $30.00 / 25 and up
Love Bites: The Power Ballads Sing-Along
Sing the night away to 80s power ballads. And "if that's not enough," says NY Mag's Michael Alan Connelly, "there will also be an air guitar competition, a costume contest, and free Valentine's candy." Dress Code: None.
Union Hall, 702 Union St., Brooklyn / Feb. 14, 10:00 pm / $8
New York Vampire Ball 2013 "Anti-Valentine's Day"
Now in its 14th year, the NYC Vampire Ball is one of the longest-running events of its kind in the world, according to The Examiner's Charles Rosenay. This year it's returning to Element NYC, which The Examiner describes as an "amazing three-floor completely renovated venue...with an amazing sound system and a great dungeon space in the basement called 'The Vault.'" Recommended: Vampire attire.
Club Element, 225 E Houston St / Feb. 17, 10:00 pm / $16.66 online, $30.00 for couples