By Chinazam Ikechi-Uko.
There is a borderline oversaturation of the colour red, heart shapes at every nook and cranny, and everyone trying to sell you something a la pyramid scheme; it must be Valentine season.
Like the 13-time Oscar-nominated film, Emilia Perez, Valentine’s is a polarizing holiday. Although not an official holiday, the date, February 14th, has as much marketing pull as a religious one— even more.
Valentine’s Day celebrated on February 14th, has roots in the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, which honoured fertility. The day became linked to Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr who defied Emperor Claudius II by secretly performing marriages for young couples. Recognized by the Catholic Church in the 5th century, Valentine’s Day gained popularity in the Middle Ages as a day for lovers to express their affection through handwritten notes and gifts.
Today, Valentine’s Day is a global celebration characterized by gifts like flowers and chocolates, emphasizing love, affection, and friendship in various forms. Nevertheless, some think it is overrated and overblown, others appreciate it as an opportunity to finally flex their gift-giving prowess. But everyone admits that it is a tad bit overwhelming.
So many things to do but you can’t seem to narrow it down. Fear not, here’s a curated affordable Valentine’s event list for several archetypes. Which are you?
THE GRINCH BUT MAKE IT VALENTINE:
So you’re not a fan. The heart shapes are basic, and you can’t stand these couples who lack self-control—there are children here; get a room. The anti-valentine trope started gaining traction in the early 2000s and has gone mainstream in the 2020s, with events targeted at it. If this is you, the compilation of game nights, movie nights, and karaoke nights at Cafe One’s Anti-Valentine event is your scene.
THE RAVER:
These days, the term raver has developed a double meaning— a fan of Afrobeats singer, Rema, or a lover of raves. The average Lagos socialite is a little bit of both. They never skip an Ozemba chant and you’d catch them singing along to The Dare’s I like the girls who do -. To cater to the growing rave subculture, there is an array of EDM events and February 14th is no different. Check out: Sweat It Out and Insert Nights by WeTalkSound.
THE IN LOVE WITH NOVELTY:
Let’s be honest, cheap trumps boring. Imagine doing the same thing for Valentine’s Day for five years. You’re tired, you want to reignite the curiosity spark, you want to feel the rush. Flowers and dinners are beautiful but you want to feel young and spontaneous again. Well, Praia is having a Valentine’s Latin Party. Learn a romance language, dance salsa or flamenco, eat exotic dishes, and discover if the French really kiss like that. Another nouveau idea is a skating party by Kriss Kross which offers a buy one, get one policy.
SHE’S A RUNNER, SHE’S A DANCER:
Raves are overstimulating but you love a party. Something about dancing in the moonlight near the Atlantic Ocean sounds dreamy. Well, South Socials by Chibyverse, Amapiano District X Beauty Hut, Ile Ijo x Marina Road Sound, and Monochroma encompass that idea.
ESCAPIST:
If it is not a vacation to a private location, then you do not want it! Bring the hotel chambers, the money bouquet and flower petals. Lakowe Romantic Getaway or Abuja Continental Valentine Special tick these boxes.
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THE GALENTINE:
Society puts a lot of pressure on Valentine’s to be about romantic love. But that is simply one kind of love, your girls have had you back through every storm. Shouldn’t they get some love too? If you are looking to dance the night away with your girls, Femme Africa’s Girls Night in Galentine on the 13th, or Siren’s Galentine for the 15th is just right. Best part? Siren is having a Lagos and Abuja edition.
THE SHOPAHOLIC:
When reformed criminal, Harley Quinn told Poison Ivy that she was a textbook misanthrope who prefers the company of plants to humans, you felt that. The only difference is you prefer your plants processed in the form of textiles. You love seeing money hanging in your closet. Money bouquets are ugly but a Kadiju dress with a bubbled hem? Yes. Lucky you, exceptional brands like Desiree Iyama, This Is Us, and Bootuniverse are having a Valentine’s sale. Let’s not forget the amazing discounts on the hair retail store, Dolla Holichair.
THE SINGLE:
Like the Blackpink song, you are ready for love. Here are a few examples for those looking to mingle: Love In Lagos by Pop Central and Sip & Paint by Even In The Day. With hard-hitting itineraries and speed dating, these events are sure to excite your fossilised love life.
