Ironically, as we quickly approach the one-year anniversary of nationwide isolation and various statewide lockdowns, we also approach the day dedicated to the celebration of love and romance: Valentine’s Day.
Just like every holiday this year, some traditions must be altered to partake in the occasion. But luckily, in Phoenix, there are plenty of options for a romantic and safe February for citizens of all ages.
The first of these activities is an open-air Valentine’s Day market occurring this Saturday, Feb. 6 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Bragg’s Vendor Market.
“It’s mostly all gifts, 100 percent either handmade or vintage,” Kate Benjamin, one of the market coordinators, said. “It’s a really good variety of fun things from our favorite people and all very good quality.”
Benjamin elaborated on a few of the products for sale, such as jewelry, clothing, pet accessories, fresh flowers, handbags and cards perfect for that special someone. There will be 19 total vendors in attendance with a variety of merchandise.
The market has free admission, will be pet friendly and asks all patrons to comply with social distancing and a mandatory mask policy to ensure customer safety.
Patrons are also encouraged to scope out the neighborhoods for other events that will be operating at the same time.
“There’s so much great stuff in the area, like the businesses inside Bragg’s Pie Factory and the Desert Sun Plaza,” Benjamin said.
Another activity for Phoenix couples looking to pursue a creative endeavor this month is the ‘Sending All My Love Pottery and Floral Arrangement Event’ hosted on Feb. 10 at 700 W. Campbell Ave.
At this event for $55, materials will be provided to paint a pottery envelope that doubles as a vase for a custom spring flower arrangement. More information can be found on their website.
Additionally, a staple of the downtown art scene, the Phoenix Art Museum will be open on Feb. 14 with their usual pricing and hours for those searching for fascinating and educational dates.
“With a number of safety measures in place, including required face masks and a daily cap on attendance of 600 visitors per day, to ensure our guests and their loved ones can enjoy art while staying as safe as possible,” Samantha Andreacchi, a museum spokesperson, said.
Andreacchi said guests can grab outdoor brunch or lunch on the patio of Palette Restaurant or take their meal to-go and have a picnic outside in the Dorrance Sculpture Garden.
As for Valentine’s cuisine, Phoenix does not disappoint. The Farish House, Bliss Rebar, Little Rituals, Compass Arizona Grill and the Arrogant Butcher are just a few of a variety of options downtown that have created distinct Valentine’s Day menus.
For a COVID-19 friendly date in the comfort of one’s own home, there are a plethora of options for intimate online Valentine’s Day-themed cooking classes, such as those offered on Appetite4Seduction.
For a fee of $49.99, they will assist you in making a picturesque three-course meal while teaching knife skills, how different ingredients affect the body and answering any culinary questions.
These live classes will take place on Feb. 12, 13 and 14, and tickets can be purchased until 12 p.m. on days of the live events.
Geared towards singles ready to mingle, the Valley has many unique options for meeting a potential Valentine that are guaranteed to create unforgettable memories.
The Lock and Key event taking place at the Golden Margarita on Feb. 6 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. will be the first of its kind “since the social distancing, and lockdown went into place,” said Danielle Coletto, the event’s coordinator.
Since its creation in January 2008, Coletto has been hosting these and other singles events almost monthly.
“Men get keys, and women get locks. Participants walk around to try to find their match. It helps break the ice of just walking up to someone and starting a conversation,” she said.
Pre-COVID, events before Valentine’s Day garnered the largest crowds, but this year to keep the guests safe, attendance is expected to be around 40 people.
“Many couples meet and get married, and I actually met my significant other at one of my events many years ago,” Coletto recounted.
To save $9 on the otherwise $35 tickets, Coletto encouraged interested readers to use the promo code ASU18.
Similarly, if one is looking to make quick connections this month without stepping foot outside their front door, MyCheekyDate is offering virtual speed dating on a custom-tailored platform.
“Dating apps are great but aren’t for everyone, and there are limited options to meeting new people otherwise given the current situation,” Amanda Ortiz, a spokesperson for the company said.
The virtual events have been made to closely resemble their in-person counterparts, where guests mingle until they are paired up to chat for seven to eight minutes at a time. They are rotated so everyone has a chance to meet. Finally, matches are made based on participant’s notes and mutual matches will receive the other’s contact information to set up future dates.
There are usually anywhere from 16 to 24 singles at each event and in general, “we always see several matches after each event. It’s very rare for there to be no matches made,” Ortiz said.
“Humans are social beings, and we enjoy getting to know new people which many are missing out on,” Ortiz added. “It’s so important mentally for many of us to connect with others and not miss out on life because of the pandemic. There are many safe alternatives out there now to socialize.”
Contact the reporter at samackie@asu.edu.
