Not feeling Valentine’s Day this year? 8 things to do in Phoenix

Maybe you're single. Maybe you're heartbroken. Maybe you're not down with the commercialization of every single holiday the capitalist machine can get its hands on. Maybe you just don't like red or pink.

Whatever the reason, if you're not trying to observe Valentine's Day this year, you don't have to hide in the house and watch "Fatal Attraction" again (although that doesn't sound like a bad way to spend an evening).

Here are eight things to do around Phoenix if you're anti-Valentine's Day in 2025.

Dump Truck Event

Friday, Feb. 14
Burns Pest Elimination, 2620 W. Grovers Ave.

We call them parting gifts: the stuff that your ex leaves at your place after the relationship is over. If it's time to get rid of it, trash-removal company Junk King and Burns Pest Elimination have an idea. They've teamed up for a dump truck event, so bring your ex's crap you don't want anymore to Burns' location in northwest Phoenix and throw it in one of Junk King's massive dumpsters. You can only bring two items, so decide in advance what's worthy of being tossed dramatically into a trash bin. For each item dumped, Junk King will donate $1 to the American Heart Association up to $500.

Emo Anti-Valentine's Day Dance Party

Friday, Feb. 14
Level 1 Arcade Bar, 48 W. Main St., Mesa

If ever there was a genre suitable for an anti-Valentine’s Day event, it’s emo. That’s why DJs at Level 1’s Friday night party will be spinning melancholic rock anthems to serenade the broken-hearted from 9 p.m. until close. Drink specials, including $5 mystery shots, will be on hand to dull the heartache. Admission is free.

Anti-Valentine's Day Celebration

Friday, Feb. 14
The Phoenician Tavern, 6000 E. Camelback Road

It's not just the coupled who deserve a nice dinner on Valentine's Day. The Phoenician Tavern on the grounds of The Phoenician resort is hosting an anti-Valentine's Day event on Feb. 14 that includes themed cocktails, dinner specials and dueling pianos from 8 to 10 p.m. The entire event runs 5 to 10 p.m., and there is no cover charge.

Anti-Valentine's Day Dance Party

Saturday, Feb. 15
Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second St.

The lovelorn can work out their issues (or take their minds off all their relationship drama) while hitting Crescent Ballroom’s dance floor on Saturday night starting at 9 p.m. Local DJs Pootiecat and Codeen will be in the mix. Admission is $8 in advance and $10 at the door.

Single Awareness Day

Saturday, Feb. 15
Carcara, 320 N. Third St.

Be single in style at Carcara, the signature restaurant inside the Sheraton Downtown Phoenix. Mingle with other solo types during the Single Awareness Day event, which runs from 2 to 5 p.m. The $20 cost gets you one free drink, hors d'oeuvres and the chance to meet a whole bunch of new people. There will be happy hour specials and love-themed cocktails available for purchase as well.

Heartbreak Escape

Saturday, Feb. 15
Location TBA

Dance yourself numb at Heartbreak Escape, a 21-and-over event at a secret Tempe location. Presented by Daycare Sessions and Influx, Heartbreak Escape will give your bitter heart all the house and techno it can handle. The event starts at midnight, so get ready to dance the night away. Text DAYCARE to 833-600-8738 for tickets and information, including the location.

Craft & Yap Self-Love Event

Sunday, Feb. 16
Gracie's Tax Bar, 711 N. Seventh Ave.

If your anti-Valentine's Day sentiment has more do with not having a Valentine than not liking the day in general, remember what Whitney said: "Learning to love yourself is the greatest love of all." Be your own damn Valentine at Gracie's Tax Bar on Sunday, when Craft & Yap hosts an event that will fill you with self-love. Attendees will build their own bouquet, write a love letter to themselves and create a mini vintage chocolate box while enjoying sweet treats and charcuterie. Cost is $35 (drinks are not included) and the event runs 4 to 8 p.m.