Patch Picks: 5 Valentine's Celebrations With Attitude

Forget the chocolates, the jewelry, the flowers. Head downtown with a new attitude in tow. St. Pete gears up for Valentine's Day weekend, where several nightspots are playing Cupid for singles. From a "Valentine's Day Massacre" at Crystal Head Lounge to a "Love Stinks" night at Scene Premium, these are not your run-of-the-mill Hallmark card celebrations.

1.) Are you single and ready to mingle? Bishop Tavern is having a party just for you. On Thursday, Feb. 10, the event will include the most tantalizing tunes in the Bay, as well as $3 drinks, beers and bombs. Find your match and be entered to win a dinner for two at the Central Avenue Oyster Bar or a one-night stay at the Postcard Inn on St. Pete Beach. Singles will receive their first drink on the house. The motto for this DJ Fresh event is: "Chances are, you won't be single by the end of the night." Contact Bishop Lounge at 727-564-3628.

2.) Hearts and Sangria: You and your sweetheart are sure to indulge in the food and drink at Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant. Ceviche celebrates "Life, Love and Flavors," with a special Valentine's menu. One selection includes a sautéed eight-ounce lobster tail, gulf shrimp, scallops, jumbo lump crab meat, calamari, black mussels and clams simmered in a light lobster sauce accompanied by saffron rice. Ceviche already has an extensive wine selection, not to mention it popular sangria. Call 727-209-2302 for reservations and more information.

3.) Celebrate your queen or princess. Crystal Head Lounge is presenting a "Valentine's Day Massacre" upstairs at Jannus Live. For those about to jam, this is the best alternative to a conventional Valentine's Day event. First in the lineup is Absolute Queen, a Queen cover band that puts on a spectacular show. After that, join Highway to Hell which gives fans the ultimate AC/DC experience. Tickets are free and you can pick up yours at the Detroit or Daddy Kool Records. The massacre will take place after the show in the Crystal Head Lounge. Those sporting red attire will receive a complimentary drink ticket. There's no cover and bartenders will be slinging $5 TNT's (a cocktail containing Absinthe and cognac) all night long! Get in touch with Crystal Head Lounge by calling 727-565-0550, ext. 109.

4.) Getting down to the nuts and bolts: On Saturday, Feb. 12, Push Ultra Lounge is hosting its Third Annual "Nuts and Bolts Party." Upon entrance, guys get a numbered bolt and ladies receive a numbered nut. Find your matching number throughout the night, go to the bar and get a free drink! Those who find their match will also be entered in a raffle to win door prizes. There will be a $3 Grey Goose happy hour from 9-11 p.m. DJ Coz will be spinning the latest tunes all night. Singles, couples and the "it's complicated" pleaders are welcome to join in on the festivities. Call Push for information at 727-871-7874.

5.) What's that smell? Scene Premium Night Club presents "Love Stinks" on Saturday, Feb. 12. Ladies get in free all night, while guys pay a $5 cover. Dress to impress or access will not be granted. Women get free drinks, and gals in groups of 10 or more will receive a free bottle of champagne. DJ FBI will be in the main room while James Webb will be holding it down at the Halo House Lounge. For a night of good music, tasty drinks and beautiful people be sure and check in at Scene Premium Night Club, 211 3rd St. South. Contact Scene at 727-258-4813.