Valentine’s Day for lovers and haters

Whether you love it or hate, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. No matter what your opinion though, Austin has something for everyone.

Valentine’s at Melting Pot

13343 Research Blvd.

For fondue-frenzied couples on Valentine’s Day, the Melting Pot has a special Valentine’s menu and prices for couples. On Feb. 13, the Arthur Murray Dance Studio is hosting dance-and-a-meal at noon and 4 p.m. However, the $120 per couple dance lessons, the $130 per couple meals and tricky reservation process may turn away all but the wealthy patrons, or the deeply in love, for whom price is no object. Those in newer relationships or with thinner wallets can try do-it-yourself fondue at home, which—for the price—may turn out better than the Melting Pot.

Truth & Beauty/The Bach Project at the Long Center for the Performing Arts

701 W. Riverside Dr.

The Bach Project is a ballet featuring music composed and inspired by the profoundly emotional Johann Sebastian Bach. A bit of classical culture can be the perfect ingredient to spice up any romantic outing. The Bach-inspired pieces written by Philip Glass and Graham Reynolds will add a contemporary element to the immortality of Bach. With seats priced from $24 to $74, this night of music and ballet is sure to be a passionate component of any Valentine’s celebration. Performances occur Feb. 12 and 13 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 14 at 3 p.m.

Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Valentine’s Eve Party

801 Red River St.

What could be a better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than delicious barbecue at one of Austin’s most famous and respected venues? White Dress, The Mercers and The Sour Notes will provide the musical entertainment for the night. At a measly $8, the Stubb’s Valentine’s Party leaves you with enough dough to get your Valentine a special something. The show starts at 9 p.m. on Feb. 13.

Valentines Dance at Midnight Rodeo

2201 E. Ben White Blvd.

A good old-fashioned hootenanny, Midnight Rodeo is the perfect place for country dancing fans. With drinks, dancing and the occasional contest, the Valentine’s Dance is a “Texas Dancehall Tradition.” Midnight Rodeo is also one of the few dancehalls that allows entry to patrons aged 18 to 21. The event costs $8.50 and begins at 10 p.m. on Feb. 13.

Anti-Valentine’s Day Event at Plucker’s

9070 Research Blvd.

Get on over to Plucker’s if you want to express your disdain for Valentine’s Day. You can join other naysayers for $1 beers and 50-cent wings all day on Feb. 14. Plucker’s will host a beer pong tournament with chances to win some prizes, including a $250 Plucker’s gift card. Hosted in conjunction with the 101X radio station, this event is anything but lovey-dovey.

Esther’s Follies’ Love  Struck on Sixth Street

525 E. Sixth St.

For a comedic spin on Valentine’s Day, head over to Esther’s Follies, Austin’s famed comedy theater. The night will feature a magic show from magician Ray Anderson, who will unveil his newest trick: wet levitation. The show will also contain sketches inspired from current events and political controversies. The show will run from Feb. 11 to Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. General admission tickets cost $20.