San Diego Reader

Thursday | 10

EMPTY-HOUSE PARTY

The books are gone and the San Diego County Public Law Library is empty for a short while. Help raise money for the impending renovation and enjoy live music, food, drinks, Eveoke dancers, and casino games.

Friday | 11

H.P. LOVECRAFT’S FESTIVAL/THE FOOT OF THE MUMMY

Technomania Circus presents Lovecraft’s dark tale in black light, featuring the “fabulous” voice of Walter Ritter, plus the story of a man who buys a mummy’s foot to use as a paperweight.

Saturday | 12

LES VOYAGES EXTRAORDINAIRES

Bust out your brass monocle and do it up big, because awards will be given for best-dressed steampunks! Enjoy “spectacular amusements” by Abney Park, Steam Powered Giraffe, and Tragic Tantrum Cabaret, plus art and couture, fire dancers, belly dancers, an “outdoor, working steam-tractor exhibit,” food, drink, and fellow steampunk enthusiasts.

FOR THE LOVE OF CHOCOLATE AND SWEETART FESTIVAL

Head to downtown Escondido to enjoy chocolate pairings featuring local breweries, wineries, and Chuao chocolates. Local chocolatiers and Valentine’s Day gift vendors will line “Sweet Street,” and carriage rides will be given on Grand Avenue. Plus, champagne garden with music by Jimmy Patton, Valentine workshops, and the Second Saturday SweetArt Walk.

Sunday | 13

SWEETHEARTS’ SAIL ON THE BAY

Bring your parents, grandparents, kids, or special someone and share this day of love. Guests will board the official tall ship of California, The Californian, for a four-hour scenic tour of the bay, marine wildlife, and local attractions. Included in the price are keepsake photos, souvenirs, and a gift bag for each guest.

Monday | 14

GONDOLA RIDES

This Valentine’s Day, the Gondola Company will cruise the canals and waterways of the Coronado Cays with six gondolas. Snacks and soft blankets provided, as well as ice buckets and glassware if you bring your own libation for a lovers’ toast.

Tuesday | 15

BLISS OR BUST: LOVE AND MARRIAGE IN THE 21ST CENTURY

“In 2010, the average wedding in the United States cost $20,000, while an average divorce cost between $10,000 and $20,000.” Local experts converge at the San Diego History Center to reveal what these numbers mean and discuss current attitudes about love.

Wednesday | 16

WRITING THE REVOLUTION

The 16th annual Writer’s Symposium by the Sea is designed to “inspire both the writer and the reader.” On this first day, author Lynn Vincent presents “Co-writing and Collaborative Writing,” and poet, memoirist, and author Mary Karr (The Liars’ Club and Lit: A Memoir) will speak.