Shopping Isn't the Only Thing Going on This Valentine's Weekend

It’s the last weekend before Valentine’s Day, so if you’re a last-minute shopper like me, a run to the store will likely take up a chunk of your two-day reprieve. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still find the time for some fun. Plus, who says you need to go to a traditional store to shop?

Where: Race starts at Lake Harriet Band Shell, 4120 W Lake Harriet Pkwy, Minneapolis, 55410

When: Saturday, 8:30 a.m. registration (if not already registered); race starts at 10 a.m.

Why go: Because it’s a good idea to burn a few calories for the special guy or gal in your life before Feb. 14. Or, if you’re single, this might be the race to play Cupid — runners can wear tags that read, “Taken,” “Single,” or “It’s Complicated” as they complete the race. And just before Mile 3, there is a Valentine’s Day-inspired pit stop, as runners will be able to pick up a Valentine for a loved one or some candy for a cute “Single” they’ve been running next to.

Price: $36. You can register on the morning of the race, or at Marathon Sports at 50th Street and Penn Avenue on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Guild, 4414 Excelsior Boulevard, St. Louis Park

When: Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Why go: Because this is a trunk show, meaning you’ll find a whole bunch of new designers and styles featured that you wouldn’t normally see elsewhere. So if you’re still looking for a Valentine’s Day present but don’t want something too cookie-cutter, this might be your best bet.

Price: Free, save for any purchases you make

Where: Bean Good Café, 5101 Minnetonka Boulevard, St. Louis Park

When: Saturday, 7 to 9 p.m.

Why go: Because live music is always a fun time, especially when there is no cover charge. The Bean Good features live music every Saturday, and this week the café has jazz group Auburn Moon lined up.

Price: Free

Where: The Rec Center, 3700 Monterey Drive, St. Louis Park

When: Saturday, 7 p.m.

Why go: Because it’s seniors night, meaning you can bid a fond farewell to four-year players who are wrapping up their careers as Orioles. Parents of the senior skaters will be recognized as well.

Price: $6 for adults, $4 for students

Where: Park Tavern, 3401 Louisiana Ave., St. Louis Park

When: Sunday, 9 p.m. to close

Why go: Because drink specials don’t all need to be on Fridays and Saturdays. This special features unlimited bowling for $7, as well as beer pitchers for the same price. Add in some pizza and wings, and you’ve got yourself a last-chance party before the new work week begins. Must be 21 or older.

Price: Free to enter. See bowling/drink prices above