20 ideas for Vale

This weekend, $4.3 billion will be spent on jewelry for Valentine’s Day gifts, $2 billion on flowers, $1.7 billion on candy and $1 billion on cards, according to the National Retail Federation. That averages to $136.57 per person spent on traditional ways to acknowledge their affection.

Well, candy is dandy, but why not try something different? A multicourse gourmet dinner with wine? An activity you and your new date can do together with no commitment involved? Maybe you have a hard time expressing your love, so you want to hire a barbershop quartet to vocalize that sentiment for you?

Or if you’re sick of the whole Valentine’s hype, try the “Cupid Is Stupid: Anti-Valentine’s Day” party at Chattanooga Brewing Co. on Feb. 14 from 5 p.m. to midnight. Sample the one-time-only Valentine’s Day brew while listening to music by Heather Holt. They’ll even provide a pinata on which you can whack out your frustration.

Here is a list of ideas for Valentine’s weekend dates that think outside the candy box.

FIVE-COURSE

WHISKEY SUPPER

› Where: Feed Co. Table and Tavern, 201 W. Main St.

› When: 6:30 p.m. today, Feb. 13

› Cost: $100 per person, reservation deadline today

› For more information: https:// www.eventbrite.com

This special date night is a Master Distillers Supper featuring a fivecourse dinner with spirit pairings from George Dickel and The Bitter Bottle that are paired with delicious food prepared by chef Charlie Loomis. After tasting the first course you’ll know why Loomis beat Bobby Flay in a Food Network throwdown!

Diners will have the chance to discuss products with Master Distiller Nicole Austin of George Dickel and food with Loomis. The event also includes a silent auction, and all proceeds will benefit Hart Gallery.

VALENTINE’S MASQUERADE

› Where: Hunter Museum of American Art, 10 Bluff View

› When: 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

› Cost: $75 general admission, $125 VIP

› For more information: https://www. eventbrite.com

A sexy, masquerade-themed party just adds to the romance of Valentine’s Day. Come dressed to impress, and a mask is required.

This masquerade presented by Soire’e Chattanooga includes live music, heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar. The VIP ticket includes complimentary valet parking, private lounge, premium open bar, dessert stations plus access to the Hunter’s new “SouthBound” art exhibit.

OUT TOGETHER, DANCING CHEEK TO CHEEK

› Where: Brainerd United Methodist Church, 4315 Brainerd Road

› When: 7:30 p.m. lesson, 8:30-10:30 p.m. dancing Friday, Feb. 14

› Cost: $5 first-time guests, free for USA Dance members, $10 nonmembers, free for all men

› For more information: https://www.chattanoogausadance.com

Do you tune into “Dancing With the Stars” and wish you knew those smooth moves? Here’s a chance to learn how to ballroom dance for minimal cost while spending Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart. Tisha Deal will teach everyone how to waltz at 7:30 p.m., then put your new skills to the test during the dance that follows.

LOVE POTION NO. 9

› Where: The Chattery, 1800 Rossville Ave.

› When: 7:30-9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

› Cost: $30

› For more information: https://www. eventbrite.com

Make your own Love Potion No. 9 when Kaleena Goldsworthy of The Bitter Bottle teaches the class how to make three cocktails and the basic skills needed to replicate what you learn at home.

At the end of class, everyone will leave with recipe cards to try their newfound skills on their valentine.

POETRY & LOVE POTIONS: 50 SHADES OF AMORE

› Where: The Mad Priest, 719 Cherry St.

› When: 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

› Cost: $5 general admission, $30 VIP

› For more information: https://www. eventbrite.com

After dinner or dancing, join this late-night poetry session with Erika Dionne Roberts and beverages.

The VIP ticket includes reserved seating in front and four mini beverages; curated beverages that pair with each poem are available by separate purchase with general-admission tickets.

VALENTINE’S PAINT ’N’ PINT

› Where: Wanderlinger Brewing Co., 1208 King St.

› When: 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14

› Cost: $100 couples, $50 individuals

› For more information: https://www. eventbrite.com

Couples ages 21 and older let their inner artist loose at this art class with beer.

Class fee includes two canvases per couple, all art supplies and a flight of four beers. Sling Em’s food truck will be on-site. Stick around after class for the free ’80s dance party with