Valentine's Day falls on a Saturday in 2009, which puts it during the Family Day long weekend. If you're looking for something to do with kids for Valentine's Day, be sure to also check out what Family Day-themed events are planned on and around Saturday February 14th.
Pre-Valentine's Day Events
Saturday February 7 & Sunday February 8, 9:30am-3:30pm
Love BUGS at the Zoo
Children 12 and under who bring a valentine for their favourite insect will get free admission to the Toronto Zoo (children must be accompanied by an adult, two children per adult). There will also be special bug-based activities in the Education Auditorium.
Sunday February 8, 1-4pm
Cast Iron Chef Cooking Workshop - Victorian Valentine Delights
Register in advance for this workshop at the Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and learn how to make Victorian sweets suitable for Valentine's Day gift-giving. Children aged 9-15 may participate for $15, adults are $25 (plus GST).
Sunday February 8, 3pm-6pm
The Little Sweetheart Ball
Rethink Breast Cancer presents this fundraising event, inviting parents and toddlers to the Capitol Event Theatre for a fashion show, family dance party, crafts, snacks, swag bag and more. Includes complimentary wine and beer for the grown-ups and mocktails for the tots. Tickets are available on the website and are $50 per adult, $5 per child (7 and under).
Friday February 13, 9pm
Romantic Spice Salsa Party at Dance District
A salsa lesson, coffee and desserts are included with your night of dancing at the Dance District Social Dance Studio in the Distillery District. Tickets are available through the website, $15 plus GST.
Friday February 13, 9pm
The Cinnamon Hearts - Unlucky in Love
Comedic burlesque at Goodhandy's (120 Church Street). Tickets are $12 at the door or $10 in advance from the Xtra! office or Come as You Are.
Events on Valentine's Day
Saturday February 14, Noon-8pm
The Erotic Arts and Crafts Fair
Head to the second floor of the Gladstone Hotel to peruse handmade lingerie, jewelery, toys and edibles. Free admission, brought to you by Come as You Are.
Saturday February 14, 1-4:30pm
Montgomery's Inn St. Valentine's Day Tea
Enjoy a cup of tea and either a sweet or sandwich by the fire at Montgomery's Inn. $5.31 plus tax.
Saturday February 14, sittings at 12:30pm & 2:30pm
Spadina Museum Valentine Cream Tea
Enjoy a selection of Spadina blend teas and treats made from Edwardian recipes. Pre-registration is required (call 416-392-6910 ext 305), $12.50 plus GST per person.
Saturday February 14, 1-4pm
Let Cupid Take Aim at Casa Loma
Okay, this might be my favourite Valentine's Day event ever. Casa Loma invites you to bring your sweetie for "a fun Valentine's Day that you both won't soon forget", learning archery from certified coach Shawn Adams. Ages 16+, $31 plus GST per person (Casa Loma admission is included). Pre-registration is required, 416-923-1171 ext. 205 or 215.
Saturday February 14, 6:30pm
The Love Boat - Cruise to Murder!
Feast of Fools Theatre presents this comedic interactive mystery at the Assembly Hall (Kipling & Lakeshore). Ticket includes full buffet and silent auction, $48 per person or $350 for table of 8.
Saturday February 14, 7pm-11pm
Step into Ballroom at the Bata Shoe Museum
Lessons are included as part of this dinner and dance evening. Enjoy a buffet, complementary wine, door prizes, ballroom lessons from one of the Joy of Dance Studio instructors and, of course, dancing. $100 per couple, $55 individual, discounts for members.
Call 416-979-7799, ext 444 or email rsvp@batashoemuseum.ca.
Saturday February 14, 9pm
Bump N' Grind Valentine - Voluptuous Panic
The Skin Tight Outta Sight Rebel Burlesque troupe will be at the Gladstone Hotel Ballroom. Advance tickets are $18 and available at the hotel or online at TOtix.ca, or tickets are $25 at the door.
Post-Valentine's Day Events
Sunday February 15, 11am & noon
Valentine's Family Royal Brunch at Casa Loma
Enjoy a brunch in the Casa Loma Library then explore the castle. Visit the link above for prices, a full menu and details on booking your seats (pre-registration and payment is required).
Sunday February 15, 7:30pm
A Mid-Winter Harlette's Dream
This burlesque show is at Bread & Circus in Kensington Market. Tickets are $15 at the door or $12 in advance from Roach-o-Rama.
Join the discussion in the About.com: Toronto forum: What will you be doing Valentine's Day, and who will you be doing it with?
