Instead of giving your sweetheart the traditional box of chocolates and a card on Valentine’s Day, try to be more creative about how you can celebrate this holiday in a healthy way for both of you. Albuquerque has many special Valentine events throughout the month of February. Take in the beautiful sound of the New Mexico Philharmonic, enjoy a romantic dinner out, enjoy the work of celebrated artists at Sumner & Dene or get physical and sign up for a 5K run together. Find an healthy alternative to eating chocolate and celebrate the power of love and romance.
Valentines: Romance, Hearts & Flowers
Sumner & Dene Gallery has invited its artists to create work with the theme of hearts, romance or flowers. Artists include Ann Dunbar, Angus Macpherson, Frank McCullogh & Jeanie Sellmer.
When: February 1 - 23
Where: Sumner & Dene Gallery, 517 Central NW, 505.842.1400
http://www.sumnerdene.com/events.php
Valentines Day at Slate Street Cafe
The Slate Street Cafe will offer a special a la carte menu which will feature some Valentine's Day only specials as well as select favorites for our regular menu. Reservations are strongly recommended.
When: February 14th
Where: 515 Slate NW, 505.243.2210
http://www.slatestreetcafe.com/happenings
Nights at the Museum Presents - A Wild, Wild West Valentines’s Night
Hold hands with your Valentine as you stroll through time. Snuggle up during a romantic planetarium show, and hold your sweetie close as you dance the night away to live music. Cash bar for those over 21. This evening is for those 18 years and older.
When: February 14th, 6:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Where: NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain Road NW, 505.841.2861
http://www.nmnaturalhistory.org/nights-at-the-museum-presents-a-valentines-night-to-remember.html
New Mexico Philharmonic Celebrates Valentine's Day
Ann Hampton Callaway Trio leads a cosmopolitan romp through the Cole Porter Songbook on the Popejoy stage. Roger Melone conducts the New Mexico Philharmonic.
When: February 9th, 6 PM - 8 PM
Where: Popejoy Hall, 505.323.4343
http://popejoypresents.com/events/new-mexico-philharmonic-celebrate-valentines-day
Cupid's Chase 5K Run
The Cupid's Chase run is a national 5K event that takes place in 24 cities, on the same day, at the same time. Proceeds benefit Community Options, which provides supports to people with disabilites. There will be giveaways and prizes, and of course, the chance to see balloons!
When: February 8th, registration begins 8 AM, race begins 10 AM
Where: Balloon Fiesta Park, 5000 Balloon Fiesta Parkway, NE, 505.265.7936
Registration: Before February 8th - $30; Race Day - $50
http://imatter.comop.org/site/TR?fr_id=1061&pg=entry
Friends and Lovers Hot Air Balloon Rally
Scores of balloons, including competition racers and special shapes, fill the sky on this winter weekend. While this rally has a playful Valentine’s Day theme and is open to the public it is mainly put on to recognize the support ballooning receives from the multitude of balloon crew members in the area and to give back to the community by raising money for charity. Access to the park is from the northeast corner of Balloon Park. Free to watch/attend.
When: February 8th and 9th, 7 AM launch
Where: Balloon Fiesta Park, 5000 Balloon Parkway NE, 505.265.2865
http://www.hotairballoon.com/Friends-and-Lovers-Rally/
Sweetheart Run
This family favorite takes place at the Bosque School along the river. It's a flat and fast course, with a variety of run choices, from Kids' K to Sweetheart Couples teams.
When: February 9th, 9 AM, Cost: $15 - $60
Where: Bosque School, 4000 Learning Rd, NW, 505.217.4774
http://www.visitalbuquerque.org/abq365/events/detail/11th-Annual-Sweetheart-Run/18257/
Singing Valentines
Awww....if you've ever considered serenading your valentine, but don't have the voice for it, then you might want to try sending a barbershop quartet to voice your heartfelt wishes. Get two love songs, a long stemmed rose, and a personalized valentine's card with this package.
Cost: $55. Or, for $10, have the music delivered to your out of area sweetie by phone.
When: February 13th, 14th, 15th; 505.323.7464
Where: Delivered to your sweetheart at home, work or restaurant (greater ABQ area). http://www.abqvalentines.com/
