February 10-16, 2005

mixpicks

Visions of Love

by Tami Fertig

Date night

Hearts and chocolate silently taunt from shop windows. Couples gushily display their affection. Hermits complain in disgust, but go home to cry. It's a ruthless time of year for the jealous and depressed. While parties of two might already have weekend plans, frustrated loners should follow this simple Valentine's advice: Embrace our city's modest smattering of cheap, love-related events, and you might even get a hug back (though we can't promise).

Closet romantics should consider going incognito to the Renaissance Valentine Dance Revel at The Rotunda. Medieval and Renaissance clothing are provided gratis for those without a costume. Learn traditional grooves at dance workshops held during the afternoon, then sweep knights and damsels off their feet at the evening ball. (Sat., Feb. 12, noon-10 p.m., free, The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut St., 215-898-2798.)

Don't take off your outfit until the next day. The St. Valentine's Tour at Glencairn Museum features an underground medieval gallery, guided tour of religious art and a one-time performance of the balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet. Stay for the workshop on medieval love potions, and take home a sachet of herbal potpourri to use on unsuspecting hotties. (Sun., Feb. 13, 2-5 p.m., $5-$10, Glencairn Museum, 1001 Cathedral Rd., Bryn Athyn, 267-502-2600.)

Show up on Valentine's Day for an '80s-themed prom celebration at Continental Mid-town. Everyone's got some beef with the infamous high-school institution, so you're bound to find some jaded partygoer with big hair and a cute smile. Get your picture taken in front of the cardboard castle backdrop and knock back the restaurant's signature cocktails. Rest assured, the punch will be spiked. (I Eighties: Lost in Love, Mon., Feb. 14, 5 p.m.-1:30 a.m., Continental Mid-town, 1801 Chestnut St., 215-567-1800.)

Maybe you've been looking in the wrong places. Is it unconditional love you want? Fall for something fluffy, and it'll definitely love you back. The Compassionate Animal Relief Effort Inc. hosts a Valentine pet adoption day at the Queen Village Animal Hospital. Bring your best leash. (Sun., Feb. 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Queen Village Animal Hospital, 323 Bainbridge St., 215-462-1889.)