Weekend Planner: Lovely Valentine's Day Ideas

Virginia Opera: Orphée by Philip Glass

• Where: GMU Center for the Arts, Fairfax
• When: Friday, Feb. 10 at 8 p.m.
• Why Go: A modern take on the mythological tale of Orpheus and Eurydice, set to a jazz-inspired score.  Arrive at 7:15 for a pre-performance discussion.
• Price:  Tickets range from $44 - $86

“Be My Valentine”

• Where: Burke Centre Library, Burke; John Marshall Library, Alexandria
• When: Burke Centre, Friday, Feb. 10 at 11 a.m.; John Marshall, Saturday, Feb. 11 at 10:30 a.m.
• Why Go: Kids ages 2-3 will learn about love at Burke Centre through stories, music, and play.  John Marshall Library will host entertainers BJ and Cody as they put on a show for children of all ages.  Registration is required for both programs.
• Price:  FREE

Animal Sweethearts Dance

• Where: Hidden Pond Nature Center, Springfield
• When: Saturday, Feb. 11 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• Why Go: Kids ages 3-9 will have fun at this Valentine-themed event featuring a nature walk, dancing, crafts, refreshments, and more.  Registration is required.
• Price: $8 for Fairfax County residents; $10 for non-residents

Local Library Book Sales

• Kingstowne:  Saturday, Feb. 11 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Kings Park:  Ongoing Sale
• Lorton:  Ongoing Sale
• Martha Washington:  Ongoing Sale

Swordsmen’s Rendezvous

• Where: Gadsby’s Tavern, Alexandria
• When: Beginning Saturday, Feb. 11 every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Why Go: Learn about 18th century swordplay and weaponry, and practice your newly discovered talent.  This family event is most suitable for those in second grade and up.  Registration is required.
• Price:  $6 per person

Cat Adopt-a-Thon

• Where: Mindful Hands, Alexandria
• When: Saturday, Feb. 11 from 1 – 8 p.m.
• Why Go: Searching for your feline Valentine?  This event is presented by Tails High, which is a local non-profit cat rescue organization.

Alexandria Symphony Orchestra presents A Prescient Revelation

• Where: Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, Alexandria
• When: Saturday, Feb. 11 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 12 at 3 p.m.
• Why Go: The ASO will perform Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto featuring renowned clarinetist Richard Stoltzman, as well as Mozart’s Requiem.     
• Price: Tickets range from $5 - $80

Chocolate Lovers’ Tea

• Where: Green Spring Gardens, Annandale
• When: Sunday, Feb. 12 from 1 – 3 p.m.
• Why Go: Learn about the history of chocolate, as well as how it is transformed from bean to sweet treat.  Indulge in a variety of samples to satisfy your craving.  Reservations required.
• Price:  $27 per person

Gunston Hall Seeds of Independence Program

• Where: Gunston Hall Plantation, Lorton
• When: Sunday, Feb. 12 at 2 p.m.
• Why Go: Celebrate Black History Month by learning about a small settlement of free blacks located on Mason Neck after the Civil War.  There will be a film and guest speaker, followed by a sweet potato pie reception.
• Price:  Suggested Donations – Adults $9; Senior Citizens $8; Children 6-18 $5

Partner Yoga

• Where: Workhouse Arts Center, Lorton
• When: Sunday, Feb. 12 from 2 – 3 p.m.
• Why Go: Bring a partner and explore the benefits of two-person yoga poses and techniques.  Beginners welcome.  Reservations required.
• Price:  $20 per couple

Capitol Steps Performance

• Where: Bishop Ireton High School Theater, Alexandria
• When: Sunday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m.
• Why Go: Enjoy an evening with this popular political satirist troupe while supporting an 8th grade class trip to Puerto Rico.
• Price: Tickets are $40