5 of the Best: Anti-Valentine’s Day Events in LondonBy Angelica Malin
Red roses and chocolate boxes not your thing? Rather eat a massive, juicy burger than a 5-course set menu featuring aphrodisiacs, sharing platters and chocolate fondants? We don’t blame you. The typical romantic Valentine’s Day meals in London aren’t for everyone – although we’ve found some great quirky experiences in the capital too. If you want to mix things up, here’s 5 of the best Anti-Valentine’s Day events in London, instead:
1. Play in a Ball Pit: Ballie Ballerson
What: This Valentine’s is all about LOVE at Ballie Ballerson. Whether it is Galentine love for your bessie mates, burning love for your partner or even to kick your ex-love to the curb, Ballie Ballerson has got you covered.
The Lowdown: Expect an Ariana Grande ‘Thank u, next’ inspired pink ball pit with hanging roses and swing, and a buy one get one free Valentine’s special cocktail running all night, every night for all you lovers out there. On the 13th of February, they are throwing a Galentine’s party so expect a night of girl power with music from your favourite females toasting to your besties.
When + Where: 13th and 14th February – tickets here
2. Dine Like a King: Anti-Valentine’s Day Dinner at Frog
What: For an evening of non-romantic revelry, Frog by Adam Handling’s private dining room, The Library, provides an unforgettable Anti–Valentine’s evening.
The Lowdown: Situated underneath the flagship restaurant, singles and friends can enjoy an indulgent six-course tasting menu alongside a shot of tequila. Highlights include cod, smoked eel, brown shrimp, kohlrabi and lamb wellington with carrot and mint.
When + Where: February 14th – book here
3. Grab Your Friends + Feast: Bonfire at The Barbican
What: Bonfire, the industrial-style burger restaurant in the Barbican, are putting a brutalist spin on Valentine’s Day this year, hosting an Anti–Valentines celebration on 14th February.
The Lowdown: There will be a minimalist, deep house DJ set and a gluttonous menu of burgers, chicken wings, dirty chips and cocktails instead. The perfect place for groups of friends, their anti–Valentines day offer is an antidote to set menus and cheesy gestures. Guests who mention the code “Who Loves Valentines” will be able to receive 50% off cocktails, beer and house when ordering a burger and side, with a maximum of three drinks per person.
When + Where: February 14th – info here
4. Go Dancing: Anti-Valentine’s Day at Maggie’s Club
What: Singles can rejoice this Valentine’s Day as Maggie’s Club is putting on an event sure to blot out the teddy bears, chocolates, and red roses taking over London for the week.
The Lowdown: For those lucky enough to be unattached this year, Maggie’s will be throwing an Anti-Valentine’s bash – giving out a complimentary Love Potion X cocktail to all singles and ice cream too, to match our ice-cold hearts. This ‘Love Stinks’ Anti-Valentine’s party is returning to Maggie’s for the second year running and it’s going to be even bigger and bitter than last time. Highlights of the night will include a singles kissing booth, ex-shaming photo opportunities, and of course, an all 80’s bangers playlist.
When + Where: February 14th – info here
5. Round-Up Your Single Friends: Pergola Olympia London
What: Get on board with Anti–Valentine‘s Day celebrations at Pergola Olympia London for a night of revelry. On arrival singletons will be provided with a lock or key, a game designed to get guests chatting to as many people as possible to hopefully find their perfect match.
The Lowdown: Guests will be immersed in the circus throughout the night with circus acts and entertainment to thrill the crowd, glitter stations and of course a DJ playing everyones favourite tunes. Pergola Olympia London’s three independent restaurants, Patty & Bun, CLAW and Passo, will be serving up a range of food and cocktails specials on the night.
When + Where: February 14th – 6.30-11pm – tickets here