Valentine's Day in Seattle

With less than a month to Valentine's Day, and since it being on a weekend this year, it's probably past time to start planning. Romance doesn't have to be boring or predictable - have you thought about doing something other than a fancy dinner and over-priced flowers? Here are some suggestions if you're near Seattle.

Are you and your partner are runners? You can participate in the annual Love 'em or Leave 'em Valentine's Day Dash. This 5k run and walk takes place in and around Green Lake Park on February 13. Registration is $30 and open now.

The Seattle Symphony is performing at its Benaroya Hall home at 2:00 on February 14^th. The program includes selections from Tchaikovsky's Romeo and Juliet and Bernstein's West Side Story. Tickets are available online for $38 - $82 and for an additional charge, Wolfgang Puck Catering is providing a pre-concert brunch. Call 206-215-4747 for more information.

Argosy is offering a romantic evening aboard the Royal Argosy. In addition to a beautiful view of the waterfront and skyline, guests will enjoy a 4-course meal including coffee, tea or fountain drinks. There will also be a live band and vocalist. You can choose from February 13^th or 14^th and there is also a Valentine's Day lunch cruise. Reservations are available online for $139 or for $144 by calling 800-305-9617.

If it's a view you're after, there's probably none better than from the top of the Space Needle. Adult tickets are $17, but there's a $22 option that allows 2 visits in a 24-hour period so you can see the view during the day and at night. Tickets can be purchased online or are available at the base of the Needle.

What about an evening full of comedy? Unexpected Productions is hosting an improv show that will poke fun at relationships, babies, marriage, blind dates and who knows what else. The all-ages performance is at the Market Theater, but may not be appropriate for children. Tickets are $15 and available online or by calling 206-587-2414.

Motwon fans will want to catch Smokey Robinson on Valentine's evening in the Showroom at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma. Tickets are $50 - $100; available through Ticketmaster and at the box office. And speaking of casinos, Snoqualmie Casino in North Bend has once again teamed up with the Hilton in Bellevue for a Stay and Play weekend. For $75, you get overnight lodging, a dinner credit at Basil's Restaurant and complimentary transportation to and from the casino. Call 425-455-1300 for reservations.

Even the King County Library system is getting into the spirit. As part of the Meet the Author series, the Bellevue Library is featuring local authors who have created romantic stories set in the Victorian era. On February 13^th, Megan Chance, Anthea Lawson and Deborah Schneider will read from their works followed by refreshments and book signing. The event starts at 2:00; call 425-450-1785 for more information.

Happy Valentine's Day.