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Local venues provide alternatives to romantic Valentine plans

Whatever your reason for avoiding romantic events next Tuesday, here's a few other things to occupy you.
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What else will you be doing this Valentine's Day that might be overshadowed by all the slow dancing?

Leave your suggestions below for other options for avoiding the romantic holiday without hiding out at home.

Perhaps you have changed your mind or reading this article was a mistake, don't worry- we also have details of Valentine's day themed Grand Rapid's fun.

There are many reasons why Valentine’s Day might not be on your agenda this year, or possibly never has been. Perhaps you want to avoid this annual smooch fest because you believe it to be superfluous- insisting every day of the year should be a tender celebration of love and togetherness. Maybe it's just that you're reluctant to get red glitter on your favorite jacket or eat any heart shaped sandwiches. Whether you celebrate it or not- here are a few non-Valentine's themed events to occupy you this February 14.

"Wayne’s World," a comedy masterpiece that seems to invoke smiling nostalgia in all those aged between 20 and 40, will be showing at the Wealthy Theater for your viewing pleasure. You can buy tickets in advance or at the door. The movie starts at 8 p.m. and adult beverages will be for sale to GRCMC (Grand Rapids Community Media Center) members only. Head over to the Meanwhile Bar afterward for $3 Long Island Iced Teas (drinking three of these in quick succession is not necessarily recommended) or 75 cent Black Label cans.

The Jammies is community radio station WYCE's annual music awards night, taking place at The Intersection. This is a free event, fun for all ages, starting at 5 p.m, and unlikely to be particularly romantic. WYCE urges attendees to "please bring a non perishable food item or gently used clothing donation." They even challenge attendees to wear their pajamas- "Wear your Jammies!"- to join in the theme of the evening. Take a look at the extensive line up.

Calvin College's (3201 Burton St. SE) Faculty and Guest Series will be presenting Tiffany Engle, an evening of saxophone. "Tiffany Engle joined the Calvin music faculty in 2005 as an assistant professor and the director of bands. Dr. Engle teaches woodwind methods, conducting, and instrumental literature and conducts the Calvin College Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band and Pep Band." The concert starts at 7:30 p.m, and tickets are priced at $10 per adult and free for children and students.

Open Mic Nights are in abundance on Valentine's Day evening. You have your pick of either Founders Brewing Company at 235 Grandville Ave SW, Billy's Lounge at 1437 Wealthy Street SE or Jukes Bar at 506 Leonard Street NW. Although not specifically Valentine themed, people might be using these open mics as an opportunity to beckon back lost loves with their most visceral renditions of Phil Collin's "Against all Odds (Take a look at me Now)," so be forewarned.

On the other hand, beckoning back or lyrically spurning ex-lovers might be exactly what you are after, in which case the Holiday Bar at 801 5th Street NW will be presenting Jumbo Night Karaoke Hosted By Diva Productions. Holiday Bar advertise it as, "a chance to be THE STAR THAT YOU ARE! If you feel like dressing up in hats, boas and sunglasses, while rocking out with an air guitar-this is your show!!" Call 616-307-4360 for more event information.

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