Must List: Six Fun Things to Do This Week

Hey, tomorrow is Valentine’s Day! My husband and I keep it simple, but it’s still one of my favorite holidays. This year, we’re meeting some friends at Rocco’s — should be fun.

If you’re looking for a romantic restaurant with a pretty view, we rounded up the best places in the city. You can also make a point to grab a meal at one of Seattle’s many Black-owned restaurants.

Pickleball is taking over in a building that once housed a warehouse for Theo Chocolate in Fremont adjacent to the retail space. And Valerie Segrest’s work in Indigenous food sovereignty is truly inspiring, which is why she’s one of our Most Influential this year.

The DEI backlash has been frustrating and disheartening. Efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion benefit everyone, and staying the course is incredibly important. Here are some ways to do just that — pass them on.

Valentine’s Ball: “Friday I’m in Love”

Friday, Feb. 14, 8 p.m.
High Dive
$15+

If candlelight dinners aren’t your thing, High Dive has an idea — an ‘80s throwback dance party. Prom Date Mixtape brings the power ballads and synth-pop bangers, you bring your best retro dance moves (and maybe some Aqua Net for good measure). I hope George Michael and Prince are lined up — no one breaks our heart and gets us moving quite like those two.

Cinema Dissection: In The Mood For Love

Saturday, Feb. 15, 10 a.m.
SIFF Film Center
$22+

Wong Kar-wai’s In the Mood for Love is a full sensory experience — longing, regret, and impeccable tailoring. If you love breaking down art to see what makes it tick, this is for you. SIFF’s Cinema Dissection goes scene by scene, analyzing the lighting, framing, and movement that make this one of the most beautiful love stories ever put to film.

8th Annual Winter Beer Festival

Saturday, Feb. 15, 1 p.m.-7 p.m.
McMenamins Anderson School
$33+

Winter ales, cozy fires, and a historic school-turned-brewery? I love McMenamins establishments, and this one is no exception. The annual beer fest is back with a lineup of seasonal stouts, porters, and lagers. Grab a pint (or a flight) and warm up in the heated courtyard. With 32 beers and ciders to sample and live music, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy and having fun.

DeVotchKa

Saturday, Feb. 15, 8:30 p.m.
The Showbox
$34.50+

The Denver-based instrumental quartet DeVotchKa is a mix of folk, punk, and Eastern European influences. You might know the quarter from Little Miss Sunshine, or from its early days backing burlesque shows — including Dita Von Teese. But the live show really shines. With Southern Italy-inspired Mbrascatu joining, expect an evening of lush strings and pretty melodies.

A ballerina in a dark dress poses on stage, with "Olympic Ballet Theatre DEBUTS" written above. Four dancers in shadow stand behind, hinting at a mesmerizing performance not to be missed. Mark February 2025 on your must-list for an event worthy of the spotlight.

Olympic Ballet: Debuts

Feb. 15-16
Edmonds Center for the Arts
$24+

Olympic Ballet is premiering new works by contemporary choreographers Christopher Stowell and Nadja Saidakova. Expect a mix of classical elegance and modern creativity.

On February 13, a woman with curly hair adorned with peacock feathers and a red flower looks upwards, as if contemplating the "Must List" for 2025.

Black Makers & Creatives Event

Sunday, Feb. 16, 2 p.m.-7 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Lake Washington
$10

Fashion, poetry, music, and visual art all come together at this celebration of Black artists and creatives in and around the city. There will be live performances, incredible design, and a chance to support local talent — all while helping raise funds for Family First Community Center.

Visit our events calendar for more ideas.