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What to do this weekend - forget Valentine's Day!

Are you a little apprehensive about Valentine's Day approaching? Maybe it's all the flowers and candy your co-workers get, or maybe there's something a little too false about all that forced love and romance. Well, don't worry. There are plenty of things to do this weekend in L.A. that don't involve cards with hearts on them or ridiculously expensive dinners.

Some ideas for the V-Day faint of heart:

Firecracker Races in Chinatown - If you're into a little festivity with your exercise regime, head down to Chinatown this weekend (Saturday and Sunday) for their annual 10k fundraising event. Participants can run, walk, or ride bikes (or just watch). They'll be lion dancers, firecrackers, and a festival so if you just want to be a spectator, it's all good. It's free to enjoy and if you don't want to search for parking take the Metro Gold Line to Chinatown Station.

Downtown Art Walk - the second Thursday of the month (that would be today), the galleries downtown host an artwalk for those of you who want a cultural experience. There are plenty of galleries to explore, DJ music, and an assortment of gourmet food trucks to enjoy. Check their website for details.

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Pasadena PinotFest - are you a fan of Pinots? Saturday February 11th Noir Food & Wine in Pasadena is hosting this event from 1:00-5:00pm. They have regular passes and VIP tickets available for a slew of tastings (wine and food) - check their website to buy tickets and for details.

Unlock the Night - this Saturday at Boulevard 3 in Hollywood, you can mix and mingle with other singles aged 24-44. Never been to a lock and key party? Guys get keys and girls get locks and it's up to you to socialize and see whose fits for some great prizes (including a spa package). Check their website to RSVP in advance.

Happy un-Valentine's weekend!

, LA Dating Rules Examiner

Kelly is a writer, online dating expert, and former speed-dating host. Moving to L.A. inspired her seek out new ways of meeting men beyond traditional, stale methods like the bar scene, so she started hosting speed-dating events. After hundreds of dates, she's learned to navigate the city's...

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