Yes, it’s corny. Yes, it’s a Hallmark holiday. But in these crazy times, isn’t it nice to have an excuse for a holiday that celebrates all that we love in this world?

Dinners are lovely. Movies are fun. But here are a few extra ideas to get you in a loving mood. Why not get creative with your Valentine’s Day celebrations (Noe Valley-style, of course)?

Odd Mondays at Folio Books. Get odd and beat the Valentine’s rush by celebrating a week early. Take part in a Noe Valley literary and intellectual tradition with Odd Mondays at Folio. Check the website for the latest topic or author. The event is sure to inspire a heated conversation with your date. February 5, 7pm.

Adult Craft Night at Noe Valley Branch Library. Make a pop-up Valentine’s Day card for your favorite sweetheart. This is a fun idea for date night, or you can surprise your Valentine with a creative creation. Register by calling 415-355-5707 or ask at the information desk. February 7, 7pm-8:30pm.

Square Dancing Lessons. Bust some dance moves with free square dance lessons in the Noe Valley Town Square before you hit the club on V-Day. Meet at 3862 24th Street. February 10, 3pm-6m.

Omnivore Books. Attend an author-talk on Oysters: A Global History, and pick a signed copy for your heart-shaped foodie. Author Carolyn Tillie shares the “culinary, artistic, sexual, historical, and scientific history of the humble bivalve.” February 13, 6:30pm-7:30pm.

Noe Valley Bakery. Order cakes and treats ahead of time or stop by for last minute decorative sugar cookies. You can also (sort of) DIY some V-day treats with their delicious bake-at-home cookie dough.

Terra Mia. Speaking of DIY, think outside of the dinner-and-a-movie box and treat your sweetie to a night of painting matching coffee mugs. Terra Mia will host a special Valentine’s night on February 14. There will also be a Valentine Kids Painting Class on February 3. Call the studio at 415-642-9911 to reserve a space.

Noe Valley Spa. Double the relaxation with a super deal for couples. The NV Spa Winter Special provides an outdoor Jacuzzi and 60 minute massage for two people for $150. Call to make appointment at 415-821-6727.

Finally, don’t forget to pick up some fresh blooms for your sweetheart, your kids, or for yourself at Flowers of the Valley, French Tulip, or Whole Foods.

Robin Dutton-Cookston is a writer and editor based in San Francisco. She has a day job as Director of Communications at Parents for Public Schools of San Francisco. Her night job is managing her three children, sipping bourbon, and eating chocolate, although not always at the same time.