Radical tours, cabaret, sexy supper clubs…do something different this V-Day
Fed up of peddling the predictable when it comes to Valentine’s? We are too. So forget chocolate boxes and cheesiness, there’s something new for everyone in our eclectic roundup - whatever your relationship status…
THE DATE DEBATE | Impossible | Thursday 6th February
Featuring Love Island’s Megan Barton-Hanson, TV psychologist Emma Kenny and relationship expert Sarah Louise Ryan, the Date Debate will tackle the big issues around modern dating - from swiping right to hook-ups and the impact of #MeToo. It’s hosted by Emma Sayle, founder of female empowerment and adult parties’ brand Killing Kittens. Oo-er.
Impossible, 36 Peter St, Manchester M2 5QR (7pm; tickets £10 at killingkittens.com)
VANISHING CABARET | Alston Bar & Beef | Thursday 13th February
Nestled away inside 1837 - Alston Bar & Beef’s secret underground speakeasy - the Vanishing Cabaret has been enthralling audiences since year with its unique brand of magical showmanship (we were seriously impressed). This treat of an evening starts with a fine meal for two in Alston Bar & Beef, accompanied by a bottle of wine, before you’re welcomed into 1837 with a glass of Prosecco and led to your cosy candlelit table for the performance. Let the show begin…
Alston Bar & Beef, Cathedral St, Manchester M4 3TR (7.30-10.30pm; tickets £129.95 at eventbrite.co.uk)
RADICAL RELATIONSHIPS TOUR | People’s History Museum | Friday 14th February
Within revolution, there has always been romance. From Mary Wollstonecraft to Friedrich Engels, Beatrice and Sidney Webb, this V-Day tour explores the love lives of some our most famous radicals. The same evening sees People’s History Museum host a special gig with Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly, with both events part of its ten-year anniversary celebrations.
People’s History Museum, New Ct St, Manchester M3 3ER (12-1pm; free, donation encouraged)
HOUNDS OF LOVE | Hatch | Friday 14th February
It’s puppy love quite literally at Hatch’s doggy date night. There’ll be chance to meet other pooch parents over drinks and speed dating, while furry friends will be well catered for thanks to treats like pawsecco - not to mention canine companions aplenty.
Hatch, 103 Oxford Rd, Manchester M1 7ED (6-9pm; free)
ANGEL DELIGHT’S VALENTINE PARTY | Central Library | Friday 14th February
Once, twice, three times a lady! Drag artiste Angel Delight is back by popular demand for her third party night at Central Library. Expect fun and games galore, including a queer version of Mr and Mrs in celebration of LGBT History Month.
Manchester Central Library, St Peter's Square, Manchester M2 5PD (7-10pm; tickets £8 at librarylive.co.uk)
A SERIOUSLY SEXY SUPPER | Moregeous Mansions | Friday 14th February
With five sumptuous courses cooked by Confidentials’ very own Claire Woodier (of former Smithfield Market fame), this supper club really loves up to its title. Think steak, lobster, tiger prawns, sparkling cocktails…you get the gist. Single? Not only can you bring your own booze, you can bring anyone you like; friend, family or otherwise.
Moregeous Mansions, Manchester, M14 6UJ (7.30-11pm; tickets £47.48 at eventbrite.co.uk)
IT’S A LOVE THING | Village Point Heaton Moor | Friday 14th February
Another super supper club, It’s a Love Thing adds a surprise element with ‘intimate details personalised to you and your date.’ There’ll also be a four-course meal - from puff pastry hearts to aromatic herbed chicken and an indulgent dessert platter - accompanied by paired wines (or non-alcoholic cocktails) and live entertainment.
Village Point Heaton Moor, 35 Heaton Moor Rd, Stockport SK4 4PB (7pm; tickets £75 at getdottedevents.co.uk)
THE VILLAGE SCREEN | Victoria Baths | 14-15th February
A few years ago, event company The Village Green decided to host cinema screenings in Victoria Baths. The novelty of watching movie classics in an empty swimming pool - itself in a Grade II listed architectural gem - wasn’t lost on the people of Manchester, and they’ve been a staple ever since. Valentine’s visitors can choose from Tarantino hit True Romance or romcom Bridesmaids - with both nights also boasting street food, pop-up bar and DJ sets.
Victoria Baths, Hathersage Rd, Manchester M13 0FE (tickets from £13.50 at thevillagegreenevents.co)
LOVE PARTY | Cultureplex | Friday 14th February
Are you ready to mingle? Fed up of the endless cycle of posing, swiping and ghosting? Cultureplex’s ‘real life Tinder’ party - hosted by ‘mistress of love’ Emily Spowage - lets you meet people, gasp, IRL. Yep that means eye contact, pheromones, talking…this is as old school as it gets. Expect thoughtful introductions, drinking, dancing and maybe some cheeky games too.
Cultureplex, Ground Floor, Warehouse, Ducie St, Manchester M1 2TP (7-12pm; free)
…AND FOR A SWEET TREAT
Local sweets icon is feeling generous and offering hundreds of Love Heart rolls for free - not only that, they’ll personalise and send them to your valentine anonymously. Whether you want to reveal yourself or stay a secret admirer is up to you. Simply head to the website, fill in the form and let the confectionary Cupids work their magic…
