GRAMMY WEEKEND: You could be busily readying for Sunday, Feb. 12 at Staples Center. The gown, the speech, everything. However, if you're not nominated, but still want to get your Grammy fun on, might we suggest a Grammy Museum swing-by. The Andrea Bocelli and James Brown exhibits are wrapping up this weekend. Plus, you'll see lots of music historic goodness. It'll get you prepped for when you do finally get that nomination.
BULLDOG BEAUTY PAGEANT: Many, many pups arrive with their competition shoes -- er, harnesses? -- on, but still more people stop by this annual Long Beach shindig to watch the barky proceedings. Over 500 dogs, not all of 'em Bulldogs, show. Oh, and there's a red carpet for strutting, too. Of course! Saturday, Feb. 11
NIGHT DIVE: It's an 18-and-over music party inside the Aquarium of the Pacific. And the fishes, in all the tanks? Staying for the event (even if they themselves are not 18). We like the DJs, the music, the grown-up vibe, the cocktails for sale, and the fact that we'll learn all sorts of factoids about squid courtship. Hel-lo, Valentine's Week! Friday, Feb. 10.
CHOCOLATE & WINE FESTIVAL: We're liking this two-day Old World Village to-do for two reasons. One? The Huntington Beach location gets a lot of Oktoberfest love, and we're ready to see its Valentine's side. Two? Walking around with your paramour, snacking on sweets, sounds like an easy-breezy way to celebrate the holiday, weekend-style. It's free to get in, food and wine'll be for purchase, and it is happening on Saturday, Feb. 11 and Sunday, Feb. 12.
TWO FREE THINGS: If you're in Chinatown, you just might be running in the annual Firecracker Run. But even if you aren't, you can still enjoy the free arts festival at the Central Plaza. That's on Feb. 11 and 12. And, near the ocean, Cirque du Soleil is sponsoring free Sunday admission at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium.
