It's that time of year again! The weather is getting warm, campus is starting to look alive and we look at our flip-flops knowing the day when we can pull them out of the closet once more is close. Yes, friends, it is nearly springtime! And along with this time comes that equally hated and loved day: Valentine's Day. A day for love, some would say, or a day to remind singles of their singleness, as others would argue. Either way, the good news is that Washington has embraced this divided holiday, providing everyone - single or coupled - with some amazingly fun events.
If you want to get a jump on your Valentine's festivities then "Woo at the Zoo" on Feb. 12 is for you. This is the first time the National Zoo is hosting this event, and it's totally free. Featuring the most charming and suave animal experts, the tour explores the sexual behavior of the resident zoo animals. Through the art of comedy, you will learn the mating and dating habits of the various animals. Sadly, you must be 21 or older to participate in this after-hours event; there will be complimentary hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar. Reservations are required and can be made at the Zoo's Web site.
For those looking for something scandalously fun on the day itself, check out the National Gallery of Art. The Smithsonian has put a dirty twist on scavenger hunts in honor of Valentine's Day. Entitled "The Naked at the National Gallery Scavenger Hunt," you get to participate in a naughty scavenger search throughout the museum to answer questions given to you on arrival. Between the sultry sculptures and the provocative paintings, how can you say no? The search begins at 11 a.m. and tickets must be purchased ahead of time. If you happen to miss the event on Feb. 14, they will also be hosting it the following day.
"Dinner and show" couples or singletons can head to the Washington Improv Theater, which will be showing "iMusical: The Improvised Musical!" And just for this special holiday they will be featuring a rendition of "An iMusical Valentine." Creating a new musical show each performance, the comedy troupe will produce dialogue, music, and lyrics on the spot all based on audience contribution. Talk about good times. What better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than laughing with the one you love or some good friends? If you find yourself intrigued, check out their Web site for tickets and show times.
For those of you who believe that the entire month of February should be used to spread the love, the AFI Silver Theatre in Silver Spring, Md., is for you. Throughout the month they will be showing classic romance films, perfect for a date night or girl's night. The theater has chosen a lineup including some of the best love stories of, and before, our time. Starting with the classic tale "Casablanca" and working through "Moulin Rouge," "Say Anything," "It Happened One Night," "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind," "An Affair to Remember," "Annie Hall" and "Breakfast at Tiffany's," you definitely have an array of love stories to choose from. If you are interested in attending any of these showings, the dates and times are listed on the official AFI Web site - www.afi.com/silver.
Attached or not, there are a ton of things to do in the District on the day of love. Love is in the air, love is on the screen, love is on the stage and love is in the art. Strangely enough, love is even at the National Zoo. So get out there and get yourself some love!
You can reach this writer at thescene@theeagleonline.com
