Weekend Planner: Celebrating Valentine’s Day and Black History Month

Making plans for the weekend?  Patch has found a wide variety of local events for the whole family.

Animal Sweethearts Dance

• Where: Hidden Pond Nature Center
• When: Saturday, Feb. 11, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• Why Go: Kids ages 3-9 will have fun at this Valentine-themed event featuring a nature walk, dancing, crafts, refreshments, and more. 
• Price: Registration is required. $8 for Fairfax County residents; $10 for non-residents

Swordsmen’s Rendezvous

• Where:
• When: Beginning Saturday, Feb. 11, every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Why Go: Learn about 18^th century swordplay and weaponry, and practice your newly discovered talent.  This family event is most suitable for those in second grade and up.  
• Price:  Registration is required. $6 per person

Alexandria Symphony Orchestra presents A Prescient Revelation

• Where: Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, Alexandria
• When: Saturday, Feb. 11, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 12 at 3 p.m.
• Why Go: The ASO will perform Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto featuring renowned clarinetist Richard Stoltzman, as well as Mozart’s Requiem.     
• Price: Tickets range from $5 - $80

Chocolate Lovers’ Tea

• Where: Green Spring Gardens, Alexandria
• When: Sunday, Feb. 12, from 1 – 3 p.m.
• Why Go: Learn about the history of chocolate, as well as how it is transformed from bean to sweet treat.  Indulge in a variety of samples to satisfy your craving.  Reservations required.
• Price:  $27 per person

Gunston Hall Seeds of Independence Program

• Where:
• When: Sunday, Feb. 12, at 2 p.m.
• Why Go: Celebrate Black History Month by learning about a small settlement of free blacks located on Mason Neck after the Civil War.  There will be a film and guest speaker, followed by a sweet potato pie reception.
• Price:  Suggested Donations – Adults $9; Senior Citizens $8; Children 6-18 $5

Partner Yoga

• Where:
• When: Sunday, Feb. 12 from 2 – 3 p.m.
• Why Go: Bring a partner and explore the benefits of two-person yoga poses and techniques.  Beginners welcome.  Reservations required.
• Price:  $20 per couple

 Do you know of other events this weekend?  Tell us in the comments section.