Valentine’s weekend happenings

A single utterance of “Valentine’s Day” can make romantics swoon, cynics scoff and the dateless cringe.

Fortunately, from restaurants to performances, Bloomington offers a variety of activities for couples, groups and the unattached.

For the romantic date, look to several local restaurants that will feature Valentine’s Day menus.

On Saturday and Sunday, Scholar’s Inn will be offering a special four-course dinner, including appetizer, soup or salad, main course and dessert, for $65 per person.

“It is one of the busiest nights of the year,” said manager Patrick Kitchens.
“Reservations are definitely recommended.”

Grazie! Italian Eatery will also be serving special dishes.

“We’ll be running a limited, upscale menu on Sunday featuring a few new dishes as well as some classics,” manager Maura Davis said Davis said the restaurant sees mostly couples on Valentine’s weekend, largely due to the romantic environment the establishment provides.

“We make it a point to make Valentine’s Day special,” she said. “We have a piano player, and all the staff is dressed up. The overall atmosphere is really great for date night.”

Another Bloomington dining establishment, The Irish Lion Restaurant and Pub, will be featuring two-appetizer and two-dinner specials 4 to 10 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Hostess Brittany Cergnul said The Irish Lion is a great place for Valentine’s Day because of its quality food and service.

“People are seeking a fine-dining experience for Valentine’s Day,” she said. “It’s a nice place to take your valentine out for a nice dinner.”

There is also a wide variety of performances and exhibits being offered this Valentine’s weekend, including IU’s annual performance of “The Vagina Monologues.”

Dedicated to the female body, this show is part of the national V-Day movement to end violence against women.

The opera “Lucia di Lammermoor,” although a tragedy, is filled with beauty through its music, romance and scenic design. And this Friday students can receive $5 off a ticket with any student ID.

The Bellevue Gallery’s hanging book exhibition “Standing on the Side of Love” is an unconventional yet meaningful way to spend Valentine’s Day. According to the gallery’s Web site, this exhibit of hanging books “is in celebration and support of love, respect, tolerance, diversity and equality.”