The king of all Hallmark holidays is upon us!!  Valentine’s day is fast approaching and if you’re like me… you probably still haven’t planned the memorable love-fest for you and yours this weekend…whoops.  Whether the cliche lovey-dovey, hand-holding, romantic evening makes you swoon or want to lose your lunch; there are quite a few fun [and interesting] events happening all around San Diego.

While I was searching for the best activities for this weekend I realized that I actually had no idea how or why Valentine’s day began… and apparently the act of giving gifts to loved ones didn’t start with St. Valentine, but rather in Ancient Rome to honor Juno.  Juno was known to the Romans as the Queen of Roman Gods and Goddesses as well as Goddess of Women and Marriage.  Interesting huh?  Now you have a little fun-fact to impress your beau this Sunday!

Valentine’s Day Dinner Packages

Bertrand at Mister A’s

Enjoy beautiful views of downtown San Diego and Balboa Park!  Mister A’s is offering a 3-course menu for $85/ person.

Click here to make reservations online!

Hornblower Cruises

For a romantic date aboard a yacht on the Bay, Hornblower is offering brunch or dinner cruise options!  Prices range from $62.95-$129/ person.

Click here to view the options and make reservations!

Mr. Tiki Mai Tai Lounge

If you’re looking for something a little more budget friendly, Mr. Tiki is offering a 3-course Valentine’s dinner for $29.95/ person. 

Click here to make reservations online!

For a more extensive list Valentine’s Day specials all around San Diego County check out the OpenTable website!

San Diego’s best FREE romantic attractions:

1. La Jolla Cove

2. Balboa Park

Unique Date Ideas:

Take a horse drawn carriage ride through downtown San Diego or Balboa Park with Cinderella Carriage Company!

Click here to view their website .

South Bay Drive-In is a quirky and fun alternative to regular theaters.  Tickets are just $7 too!

Click here to view their website

San Diego Ballet is performing the love story classic: Romeo and Juliet for Valentine’s Day weekend!

Click here for show times

Mardi Gras is fast approaching and San Diego is hosting some great events to celebrate!  Whether or not you’re planning on giving something up for lent (I’m going to try caffeine…. yikes!) it’s always great to have an excuse to gather friends and have fun!

February 16th is “Fat Tuesday” and here are a few of Stay San Diego’s favorite events going on in our ‘hood:

The Gaslamp Quarter Association is hosting an outdoor celebration in the streets of the Gaslamp Quarter with parades and block party with live music!  This event is 21+.  Click the link above to check out the entertainment lineup and to purchase tickets!

Hillcrest Mardi Gras Street Party

Click here for a sneak peek of Hillcrest Mardi Gras 2010!

San Diego’s uptown neighborhood is holding a block party of its own on University Ave. between 1st and 4th St.  I would highly recommend VIP tickets for this event as they include: food from local restaurants, beer, a private bathroom and heated tent, the best beads, a viewing area for the stage, and a lounge.  21+.  Click the linked title above for more information!

If celebrating on a Tuesday doesn’t sound appealing to you, here are some great options for Saturday, February 13th!

The Little Italy Association and the Italian Board of Tourism put together this event which mirrors Carnevale in Venice!   From 5-10pm on Saturday come and celebrate with several vignettes of entertainment and shops & restaurants open house.

Click on the link above to check out the website!

4th and B in downtown San Diego is hosting San Diego Brazil Carnival 2010 which features:
Brazilian singer Dandara, Caipirinhas & Capoeira. Dance non-stop to the pulsating rhythms of SAMBA, MARCHA, AXÉ MUSIC & BATUCADA.

Click on the link above to visit the website and purchase tickets!