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DC Valentine's Day events guide


Learn about cacao before it came in a box at The Power of Chocolate
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If you're seeking special events to celebrate Valentine's Day in the DC area, look no further. Those who adore adventure, savor solitude or crave community will find plenty to do in the area whether single or attached.

Thrill seekers can take a day trip out to Savage, Md., for a special February 14 adventure package through Terrapin Adventures. The $59.95 couples price includes a two-hour course of zip lining, a giant swing, ropes and a climbing tower. At the end, enjoy a steaming mug of hot chocolate and Hershey kisses.

The night before, put on your dancing shoes for the Dance Place's Valentine's Day Dance Party. Bring a date or come solo, with all proceeds benefiting the Climate Control Campaign. Wear something red and admission is two for the price of one; free admission for children and teens under 17.

Today chocolate comes in heart-shaped boxes tied with a bow but long before Hershey's, cacao was seen as a food of the gods. Celebrate this heavenly treat at The Power of Chocolate at the National Museum of the American Indian. Learn about cacao's history and try your hand at grinding cacao beans and making hot chocolate.

Chocolate pairs well with wine, so after indulging in the sugary stuff, walk over to the Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center for the 11th Annual International Wine & Food Festival. The weekend-long event brings together more than 100 local and international wineries, along with a chance to sample a variety of foods from around the world.

Looking for live music? On the 14th, check out more than 20 rising alternative and punk stars at the 9:30 Club, the B.T. Richardson Band at Madam's Organ, Heidi Martin at Bohemian Caverns or "Burlesque-A-Pades" at the Birchmere, featuring the Pontani Sisters.

If you're recovering from a bad breakup this year, you'll want to be at Bar Louie in Chinatown for its annual Shred Your Ex event. Bring in a photo of your ex to run through the shredder; afterwards, enjoy drink specials and brunch specials until 3:00 PM.

Related stories:

Special ways to celebrate Valentine's Day in DC
DC's top romantic spots

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DC Travel Examiner

Erin's travels have taken her to nearly two dozen countries, including a year-long stint in Seoul, South Korea, teaching Korean students how to...

Comments

  • Jodie J 2 years ago
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    Great article. Like having so many different options.Still think chocolate is food of the gods or at least of princesses.

  • Sheila O'Connor -SF World Travel Examiner 2 years ago
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    Great to have so many different things to chose from, thanks Erin.

  • Malikah Lakhani 1 week ago
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    Another great event in Alexandria, VA is Acro Sutra - A Valentines Day event for couple and singles on Feb 11th, 2012. Urban Evolution’s Acro-Sutra Valentine’s Event!
    On February 11, 2012, Urban Evolution will host our second annual Valentine’s Day event, where
    couples and singles will learn to fly! One partner will “base” and learn to manipulate their partner’s
    movement and weight. The “flyer” will build trust in their partner, challenge their balancing skills and
    fold and twist into various acrobatic poses. Both partners will build strength, coordination and flexibility, while moving in tandem. Partnered acrobatics draws on yoga, gymnastics, and strength training in this cross-disciplinary work-out. visit www.urbanevo.com for more info

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