Local Gifts for the Valentine Zealots

Once February rolls around, dedicated alt-weekly readers start encountering the many, many “Anti-Valentine’s Day” articles, lists and parties. And, to be honest, it’s getting a little weak.  I get that it’s  a holiday invented by the greeting card company, I’ve heard the schpiel about how you are supposed to be romantic everyday of the year and not just one. But, what people always seem to forget is that, an excuse to celebrate anything, is pretty awesome and a necessary part of life. How often would you get all of your friends together to go rollerskating if it wasn’t your birthday? Think about it.

So, I’ve found some great local stuff that celebrate love and Philly and the act of celebrating. Here’s to a year of not being Anti anything and pro everything!

1. Jin-Ja is a spicy beverage created by local Philly lawyer Reuban Canada. It’s a blend of ginger, cayenne, green tea and sugar that would be so good with gin and a great way to heat up, if you know what I mean. Buy it at Green Aisle Grocery.

2. John and Kiras Chocolate Lovebugs really can’t get any cuter. The chocolates, made by local Philly couple John and Kira, are salted caramels, touched with basswood honey from a local farm, covered in ganache and handpainted.

3. Okay, enough with the cute stuff, The Erotic Literary Salon happens every month at Time at we couldn’t think of a better time to go and check it out. Susana Mayer Ph.D. leads the night of erotic readings and performances centered around classical and modern erotica. Go order an absinthe and listen to some smut, it will be a very European evening.

4. Ah, The Flower Show. It’s the only place where you can physically go out and buy romance. This year promises the sound of CGI waves crashing, the constant smell of lush gardens and orchids, and magically tropical gardens as far as the eye can see. No wonder people are always getting engaged there. Follow them here and here to find out about sweetheart packages they offer!