A Guide to Valentine’s Day for Lovers (And Haters)

While many deem February 14 a day of corporate conspiracy, grossly over-the-top displays of affection and just all-round evil, there are still some of us out there who look forward to this, the international day of lurrrve. But there are some ways to kick it a little cooler this Valentine's Day — we're talking a little more culture, a lot less PDA.

So ditch the overpriced candy and heart-cradling teddy bears, or the multiple episodes of Girls and several glasses of wine alone in bed (wait, is that just me?). Whether you've met the love of your life or not, whether you're on a date or with friends, get out there and enjoy all that Sydney has on offer this Valentine's Day.

For couples

Stargazing at Sydney Observatory

They say the stars align when you're in love. Well now you can test out the theory — with the Valentine's Day Stellar Indulgence Sessions at Sydney Observatory. The Lunar session will see couples enjoying a glass of sparkling, live music and themed cupcakes, before checking out the almost-full Moon and planets through professional Observatory telescopes. Alternatively, the Jupiter session offers a sunset experience in the stunning Observatory marquee — with all the sparkling and music, as well as Jupiter-inspired hors d’oeuvres, before a viewing of Jupiter. In the case of wet weather, guests will be treated to a cosy planetarium session and stellar lunar projections.

Lunar Lovers Session (9.30–11pm) & Jupiter Delight Session (7–8.30pm): February 14; Sydney Observatory, Watson Road, The Rocks; Adults $44.50, Powerhouse Members $38.50. Bookings essential.

Snow date at In2Ski

Sydney has pretty much got everything you could ever want, all year round. But the one thing we know we’ll never have is snow. The answer? In2Ski — Sydney's first and only indoor snow sports centre, now open in Alexandria. Bringing snow to the city, this state-of-the-art centre allows visitors to sharpen their ski and snowboard skillz, on what are effectively three very large, snow treadmills. In what is guaranteed to be a unique Valentine’s Day date, this one is for the thrill-seeking romantics. Oh, and the snow conditions for February 14? Perfect.

Open from 11am-9pm on Friday, February 14; $75 for 1 hour group session, $265 for 1 hour private session (up to 4 people); 160 Bourke Road, Alexandria.

Arabian Nights at Zeta Bar

Fancy yourself a bit of Aladdin and Jasmine action this Valentine's Day? Zeta Bar at Sydney's Hilton has got you covered. Launching its new 'Arabian Nights' concept on February 14, Zeta is set to transform into an exotic palace, offering an experience both luxurious and flavoursome. Gorge the senses with an array of Arabian-inspired cocktails, a spice market bar and hookah pipes aplenty (just ask the sheesha sommelier about your smoking options). There's a loved-up couples package on offer for the evening (get four cocktails, along with a middle eastern tasting plate for $150), as well as singles deals for those boldly living up their singledom.

Every Friday from February 14 to March 21 at 6pm; Zeta Bar, 4/488 George Street, Sydney.

For Singles

Craft Singles at Work-Shop

Looking like you’ll be riding solo this Valentine’s Day? Work-Shop is a centre aimed at broadening your creativity and potential. And Craft Singles is by far some of their best work. Exactly 14 boys and 14 girls will attend, with seven crafty challenges set throughout the night, ranging from mixtape felt badges to heart-shaped garlands. Pair up, get crafty and when the bell rings move on to the next challenge, and the next equally eligible bachelor/ette. The night’s end brings a vote, and the private unveiling of your matches. Speed dating with a seriously cool twist, this is an opportunity to get creative, flirt outrageously, and enjoy the fact that you are single and mingling.

February 14 at 8pm; tickets $60; register at [email protected].

For everyone

Queer ACT/IONS

With Valentine’s Day on the approach, it is important to remember that all love is the same. And with this comes QUEER ACT/IONS, presented by The Q, MKA: Theatre of New Writing and PACT Theatre. In association with the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival, QUEER ACT/IONS is a guaranteed celebration of love and the arts. First off: A Boy & A Bean, written and performed by Nick Atkins (February 12-15). Atkins dives into the very vital debate of marriage equality in an honest and tender performance that sees a boy called Jack stray between love, legislation and folklore. Unsex Me — a performance of whispered confessions and hilarious self-mockery from Mark Wilson — will then run from February 19-22.

Tickets to A BOY & A BEAN and UNSEX ME are on sale now; PACT Theatre: 107 Railway Parade, Erskineville.

Breakfast at Tiffany's at Moonlight Cinema

It wouldn't be Sydney in summer without a plethora of open-air cinemas. And Moonlight Cinema in particular has become a cultural mainstay, offering a range of films in the idyllic ambience of Centennial Park. And what movie is more classically romantic than Breakfast at Tiffany's? From the award-winning novel by Truman Capote comes the story of a frivolous young socialite living in 1960s New York. Audrey Hepburn shines as Holly Golightly (no matter how many times you've seen it) and whether you're with your very own Paul Varjak, or a group of lonely, cynical girlfriends, this delightful cult classic will have everyone feeling unavoidably loveable. Darrrling.

Breakfast at Tiffany's: Friday February 14; Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park (on the corner of Loch Avenue and Broome Avenue) Paddington. Cinema gates and box office open at 7pm and screenings start at sundown. The Notebook also shows on Thursday 13. Tix on sale now.

Kite String Tangle at Oxford Art Factory

Looking for a slightly more chilled way to impress someone on February 14? The Kite String Tangle is the project of Brisbane-bred alternative electronic artist and producer Danny Harley. After being unearthed by Triple J last year and generating some serious buzz at Falls Festival, he is continuing strong into 2014 with a national tour scheduled for February. Inspired by the dreamy and atmospheric soundscapes of artists like Active Child, The Kite String Tangle offers a combination of ethereal pop and ambient electronica that's sure to have you, and that special someone, in a Valentine's Day trance.

Oxford Art Factory; Wednesday February 12 and Friday, February 14 at 8pm; 38-46 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst; Tix $20.