February’s here, and it’s hearts-and-flowers time.  Very strictly regimented hearts-and-flowers time.

Luckily for those of us whose idea of a good time isn’t flowers and a four-course meal, Toronto is bursting with Valentine’s activities designed by—and for—people who are passionate about just about anything under the sun.  So if you don’t yet have Valentine’s Day plans, here are five events that are unusual, unique, and affordable for your Valentine’s Day.

Go on a chocolate crawl

Like you used to do in undergrad, but liquor-free and much more thematic.  Toronto’s Tasty Tours is offering a tour of Kensington Market’s sweetest treats: chocolate to churros.  With free samples at each location, discounts, a history of chocolate-making, and making it great for groups of friends as well, it’s a chance for some quality time with your loved one and both your happy, happy bellies.

Lace on your skates

You know those movie montages where people skate side by side, sweetly holding hands, falling on their butts and sipping hot chocolate as if they were just posing for that eventual home movie?  Yes, that could be you.

The City of Toronto has drop-in skating at most of its outdoor rinks, including Nathan Phillips Square for the low price of absolutely free.  Skate rental is available on-site if it’s been a while, or it’s your first time.

Catch some indie tunes

If your idea of a perfect date involves a few great bands and a beer, Toronto’s Wavelength Festival, dedicated to showcasing emerging, local acts.

It’s a lot of music for your dollar, and if your Valentine’s Day really means Valentine’s Weekend.

Geek out in a completely organized manner

There are many conventions and events in Toronto for being a geek. But GeekFest is possibly the first short film festival solely about being a geek.

GeekFest is a mix of short films, documentaries, and talks on LARPing, science, steampunk, Ingress, firefly conservation, and much more. If your idea of a great time is learning something entirely, fascinatingly new, this is a date opportunity that’s pretty much impossible to pass up.

Cook something

No, not all of us can produce artisan cocktails and Japanese cheesecake, but there is something to the truism that the best gift of all is your attention, care, and time.  If you’re finding the restaurant reservation game a little fierce this year, hit the grocery store instead and make your favourite person their favourite dinner.

If your kitchen isn’t exactly bursting with recipe books, the LCBO’s Food & Drink Magazine stealthily archives their in-house recipes on their website, searchable by ingredient and season.  It’s a treasure trove of user-friendly and reliable cocktails, mains, and desserts that often come with wine pairing ideas, so you can snag a bottle of something nice to make your Valentine’s menu complete.

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Happy Valentine’s Day!