Treat yourself to a Valentine’s Day experience—with a date, friends, or solo
If Safeway’s eye-wateringly massive displays of flowers, chocolate, and balloons haven’t already tipped you off, Valentine’s Day is almost upon us. To celebrate, we’ve rounded up local events to show some love to yourself and others. On Thursday, February 13, immerse yourself in a rejuvenating Valentine’s Sound Bath to unwind and connect. On Friday, February 14, two adventures are setting sail for the big day. The USS Hornet’s Valentine’s Day Swing Dance welcomes singles and couples alike to dance the night away. Aboard a different ship, LUXE Cruise’s Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise promises a luxurious and romantic night of dinner, dancing, and enjoying the sights. On Saturday, February 15, two more events are sure to indulge the senses. The Special Valentine’s Day Salsa Class at Building 43 Winery welcomes newbies and experienced dancers—no partner required. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something intimate, check out the Breathing Room’s Partner Yoga and Thai Massage with a loved one or close friend.
Valentine’s Sound Bath
Thursday, February 13
Schedule some positive vibrations this week at the Valentine’s Sound Bath on Thursday, February 13, from 5:15 to 7 p.m. Join Jessica’s Peaceful Journeys at the backstage door entrance of the Alameda Theatre & Cineplex, 2317 Central Avenue, for the special event.
“Come join us for a rejuvenating sound bath experience filled with vibrational sounds and soothing percussion at our special Valentine’s Day event!” reads the event description. “Let the harmonious frequencies wash over you and open your heart to love and healing.” The schedule is as follows:
- 5:15 p.m.: Check in.
- 5:30 p.m.: Open seating.
- 5:45 p.m.: Ceremonial Blessings and Meditation.
- 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.: Sound Bath.
The event will be facilitated by Jessica Catano of Jessica’s Peaceful Journeys, along with special guest Tina ‘Bean’ Blaine. Participants are advised to bring a yoga mat and blanket. Guests are welcome to bring a neck pillow and eye mask as well. You may register in advance online for $28.52 or buy a ticket at the door.
USS Hornet Valentine’s Day Swing Dance
Friday, February 14
Grab your dancing shoes! The USS Hornet is hosting a Valentine’s Day Swing Dance on Friday, February 14, from 6 to 9 p.m. Board the historic vessel at 707 West Hornet Avenue for a fantastic night of dancing. Feel free to come as a couple or meet new friends at the dance.
The night’s schedule is as follows:
- 5:30 p.m.: Doors open.
- 6 p.m.: Drinks and appetizers begin.
- 6:30 p.m.: A brief history of the USS Hornet.
- 7:00 p.m.: A short dance lesson, followed by dancing until 9 p.m.
Death and Taxes Swing Band will set the stage for great swing dancing—or just toe-tapping, if you’d prefer to watch. Get a sneak peak of the lively music online. Tickets are $30 in advance online (plus a $3.85 service charge) or $35 at the door.
Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise
Friday, February 14
If you have your sights set on a luxurious Valentine’s night, LUXE Cruises has you covered. On Friday, February 14, board a yacht with your date or friends for a night of dinner, drinks, and dancing at the Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise. The evening begins at 2394 Mariner Square Drive, and free parking is available.
The three-hour cruise features a buffet dinner with unlimited standard wine, beer and champagne. The buffet includes a variety of celebratory food, from New York strip to a special red velvet cake dessert. The schedule is as follows:
- 6:30 p.m.: Check-in begins.
- 6:45 p.m.: Boarding, bars open.
- 7 p.m.: Underway, buffet open.
- 9:30 p.m.: Bars close for alcoholic beverages.
- 9:45 p.m.: Return to dock to disembark.
Tickets start at $177 per person and are limited. The dress code is “Dress to Impress.” If you have any questions or need to arrange for dietary restrictions in advance, please email [email protected].
Special Valentine’s Day Salsa Class
Saturday, February 15
Move and groove to the rhythm at the Special Valentine’s Day Salsa Class on Saturday, February 15. Come have a drink and cut the rug at Building 43 Winery, 2440 Monarch Street. Be sure to arrive at 6:30 p.m. to allow time to check in before class begins at 7 p.m.
The class will be led by Bay Area instructor Pablo Dinamico. No experience is necessary—couples and singles are welcome to come learn some new moves. After the class, get ready for a night of fun social dancing and music.
This event is for ages 21 and up. Reserve a spot online in advance for $17.85 per person. If you can’t make it this week, don’t despair! Bay Area Salsa regularly hosts salsa events at Building 43 Winery and other locations around the Bay. Check out their Instagram page and website for more.
Partner Yoga and Thai Massage
Saturday, February 15
Looking to try something new with your Valentine? Breathing Room is hosting a Partner Yoga and Thai Massage class on Saturday, February 15, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., at their studio, 1708 Lincoln Avenue.
“Partner Yoga & Thai Massage cultivates trust, respect and fun with the one you love,” the event description states. “Partner Yoga done in a sacred space and in a sacred time deepens connection and playfulness. Thai Massage relaxes us into our true nature of loving kindness & compassion.”
Due to the nature of the class, participants will not be paired up. Please bring a loved one or close friend to enjoy this intimate practice. Tickets are $95 plus an $8.22 service fee per couple. Register yourself and your companion at checkout to reserve both spots. Rental mats are available for participants who do not bring their own.
What else is going on in Alameda?
All these events and more, in Alameda and beyond, are always posted on our online Events Calendar. Post yours, too, for free!
Amanda Laird is the Content Manager and Events Editor of the Alameda Post. Reach her at [email protected].
