The countdown begins: there are only five more days until Valentine’s Day. Hopefully, if you’re spending Saturday with a special someone, you’re already set and done. And if not, that’s okay, too. We won’t judge, we’ll do the heavy lifting for you instead. Read on for the best things happening around Chicago this week, leading up to V-Day.

Start St. Patrick’s Day early. Dropkick Murphys are painting The Salt Shed green on Tuesday, March 3rd. Enter to win tickets for the chance to see them shippin’ out to Chicago.*

JUST ANNOUNCED

• We’re hosting Barlympics with Michelob Ultra! Swing by Fatpour Wicker Park on Friday, February 13th for a night of games, prizes, giveaways, and more. RSVP for free entry.*

• Valentine’s Day weekend is better in New York, and we’re giving away the experience for free. Cupid’s Secret runs throughout Valentine’s season above Columbus Circle with music, performance, and a four-course dinner. Wanna win VIP tickets, a hotel stay at The Moxy, and travel? Sign up for DoMORE to enter.*

• Gardenista is now served at Avli River North. Bottled cocktails crafted with real citrus, herbs, ginger, and jalapeño with no mixing required. Make your V-Day reservation before it fills up.*

• We’re from Chicago. When it comes to St. Pat’s, we don’t know how to just go halfway. Lucky Disco Music Festival 2026 is shutting down Morgan St, debuting a main stage, & taking over The Emily Hotel for its four-year anniversary. Wanna get lucky?*

• Plus other just announced shows from Nothing, Jay York, Carin Leon, The Lemon Twigs, John Prine, DJ Ca$h Era, Fantastic Negrito, Judy Collins, Giuseppe Ottaviani, Étienne de Crécy, Holly Humberstone, and more!

YOUR GUIDE TO VALENTINE’S DAY

Ah, Chicago, the city of love…. or something like that. This Valentine’s Day, you can make this the most romantic city in the world. Whether you’re just doing dinner or planning a whole-day excursion, check out our guide for the best ways to spend V-Day in the Windy City.

• LOVESPELL: POLE DANCING & BURLESQUE SHOW at NEWPORT THEATER

• VALENTINE TRUFFLE DINNER at TUTORE COOKING SCHOOL

• ROSÉ AND ROSES at MESLER KITCHEN

• CHICAGO ARTISAN MARKET at Artifact Events

COMING UP

LOCALS ONLY

• Let’s all be grown-ups here. Sometimes, it’s fun to engage in a little PDA. If you’re looking to pucker up with your boo this Valentine’s Day at some of the most romantic views in the city, check out our Chicago guide of best makeout spots.

• The Tune-Up is opening later this month at 3810 W Belmont Ave. Follow along for updates.

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