So you have a babysitter for Valentine’s Day/week/month (let’s be honest, getting childcare on the exact day doesn’t always happen), but you aren’t really feeling the usual dimly lit prix fixe dinner with two-tops as far as the eye can see. Well just call us Cupid, because we have picked out five dates that are wonderfully different; and different from each other, so you’re sure to find something new to experience together. Start making those reservations!

Let’s Talk About Sex

February 13, 7—10 pm

Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20^th St.

This 21+ event features a cash bar and gives guests a deeper dive into the science of sex with an intimate and fun evening. Explore research about the complex biological and psychological components of sex, gender, love, attraction, and relationships with experts in the field. Plus, enjoy an adults-only Drag Queen Storytime with Brittany Lynn, and other theatrical performances that explore the history and challenges of sex education: past, present, and future. The rest of the museum will also be open for exploration. Tickets available online.

Sweetheart Skate at Blue Cross RiverRink

February 14, 7—8:30 pm. 9—10:30 pm, and 11 pm—12:30 am
101 S. Columbus Blvd.

Spend Valentine’s Day on the ice! Tickets include chocolate, flowers, skating at Blue Cross RiverRink, and a keepsake photo. Food, beer, and specialty cocktails can be purchased on site. Enjoy slow jams on the ice, sip a hot cocktail by the fire pits, share a basket of Crabfries in the Lodge or stroll among the thousands of sparkling lights!

Party for the Market

February 22, 7:30—11:30 pm

Reading Terminal Market, 51 N. 12th St.

This fundraiser for the historical Reading Terminal Market includes delicious food, desserts, and drinks (at 5 open bars) from more than 50 favorite RTM merchants. Plus, live music, dancing, silent auction, casino games, cabaret, and more! Tickets available online.

The Brick Bar

February 28 and 29

Independence Seaport Museum, 211 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd.

LEGO fun, minus the kids (and plus alcohol)! This two-day pop-up is 21+ after 6 pm, and the bar will feature sculptures made completely from building blocks as well as an abundance of blocks for people to shape into their own creations. Add to that a DJ playing music, prizes for best builders, and ping pong at a table made from 22,500 LEGO bricks! Tickets are available online for 90-minute timeslots.

Flowers After Hours

February 29, 8:30—11:30 pm

Pennsylvania Convention Center, 12th and Arch streets

Enjoy exclusive access to the Flower Show exhibits and live music at this adults-only late-night dance party! The night includes complimentary spirits tastings and exclusive access to the Flower Show after it has closed to the public, plus a cash bar and interactive games and programs by Flower Show partners. This year’s theme is “Let’s Dance,” so put on your red shoes (and your best 80s fashion) and dance the blues. Tickets available online.

Lead photograph by Matt Stanley.