Valentine’s Day might be a day about celebrated relationships with others, but there’s nothing wrong with aiming that love back at yourself! Whether you’re single, ready to mingle, or just trying to take some time to celebrate yourself, Secret D.C. has rounded up the best ways to do just that: love yourself this Valentine’s Day!
1. ‘Axe your Ex’ for Galentine’s Day and mingle with singles at Throw Social
If you want to go out on Valentine’s Day to an event with friends or even on your own where you can vent about your past relationships, this is the event for you! This year, Throw Social is hosting another “Axe your Ex” event downstairs at their sister venue, Kick Axe D.C., where you will be able to enjoy some refreshing drinks and tasty snacks, mingle with other singles, and best of all, throw axes at a pic of your ex. The event starts at 4 pm on Galentine’s Day, but if you plan to go with a group of friends, you’ll want to reserve a range in advance.
2. Take part in the “shredding of grievances” for Anti-Valentine’s Day at Dacha Beer Garden
This Galentine’s Day, don’t just air your grievances: rip them to shreds at Dacha’s annual Anti-Valentine’s Day party. Get out your bitter feelings on our grievance banner then help run that heartbreak through a giant shredder!
Location: 1600 7th St. NW
3. Indulge in a little pampering or self-care
What better way to celebrate love than to indulge in a little self-care? You’ve got to love yourself! If you want to spread the love, you can always opt for bringing a close friend, but no matter what, pamper yourself, unwind, and remember, you deserve this! Here are some of the best D.C. spas to treat yourself—at varying price ranges, there’s something for everyone!
- Bluebell Spa D.C.
- Aura Spa at The Yards
- The Spa at Four Seasons
- The Spa at Mandarin Oriental
- Capital Blossom Day Spa
4. Take yourself out on a nice dinner date
Whether you’re going on a first date or cuddling up with your longtime love, you can’t go wrong by visiting one of D.C.’s most romantic restaurants! With a mix of spectacular cocktails, mouthwatering indulgences, and beautiful ambiance, each provides all you could want for a date night. Sneak a peek at some of the spots below, then check out the full list of restaurants here!
5. Create and keep a candle at Bryant Street Market’s candle-making workshop
Looking to do something cathartic, creative, and fun on Valentine’s Day that you can enjoy on your own? Bryant Street Market’s candle-making workshop may be the perfect activity for you! Hosted by Irie Essence, the event is perfect for all who are interested in the hobby of candle making. Tickets for the workshop are selling at $45 per person and are going fast, so be sure you get yours quickly before they sell out because space is limited!
6. Hit the ice at one of these magnificent skating rinks
The ultimate winter pastime: ice skating! Embrace the cold and glide along the ice under twinkling lights and the night sky! See some of our favorite ice rinks below, then check out our page dedicated to the best outdoor ice rinks in the D.C. area!
- National Gallery and Sculpture Garden Rink
- Washington Harbour Ice Rink
- The Wharf Ice Rink
7. Take a stroll through CityCenterDC
CityCenterDC is known for going all out with its decorations for each season and major holiday, and Valentine’s Day is no different. Adorned with twinkling lights, pink and red paper lanterns, and outdoor musicians, it’s a sight to see. Indulge in some shopping at one of its many shops, grab a sweet treat from Dolcezza, and find a fabulous bouquet of your favorite flowers from Lily’s Flower Truck!