QUEENS — Forget flowers and chocolate.
Celebrate Valentine's Day differently in Western Queens this year, where you can learn to read tarot cards, catch a tango show or even pick up a sex toy at a "Fifty Shades of Grey" screening party.
Here's DNAinfo's list of where to celebrate the holiday of love in Long Island City, Astoria and Sunnyside.
Drink 'Kinky' Cocktails at a 'Fifty Shades of Grey' Screening Party
Beer garden and event space Studio Square is helping Christian Grey fans get in the mood early with a party Feb. 12, where they'll be able to sip drinks inspired by the film — including extra dirty martinis — before heading to the Regal Cinemas next door for a private screening of the popular book-turned-movie.
The event costs $50 and includes the cost of the movie ticket, as well as two hours of open bar and passed hors d'oeuvres beforehand at Studio Square.
Staff from sex toy shop Babeland will also be on hand, and will be giving out gift bags to ticketholders with "a particularly fun electronic gadget included."
Tickets can be purchased online here.
Take a Tarot Card Class or Make-up Tutorial
Q.E.D., a new performance space and educational center for adults that recently opened in Astoria, will be celebrating with a series of hands-on romance and love-themed workshops.
Prep for your big date early with an 11 a.m. class on how to make your own facial scrubs and other skin care products for just $15, which includes materials. Continue with the beauty prep later that day with an eye-makeup tutorial for $20.
Other classes being offered include Tarot 101, a beginners course on how to find your future in the cards, which will be followed by $40 private readings. Q.E.D. will also host a special Valentine's Day comedy show that night, featuring four comic couples for just $5.
Learn to Tango in Sunnyside
Wow your valentine with some new dance moves. Thalia Spanish Theatre in Sunnyside is offering weekly tango lessons this winter — including a class on Feb. 14 — taught by two of the performers from its current production, "Tango 5 Senses."
Classes cost $25 and are designed for beginners. The theater will also be hosting a special Valentine's Day performance of "Tango 5 Senses" Saturday at 8 p.m. for $90, which includes wine and tapas.
Eat For a Good Cause
Astoria restaurant The Queens Kickshaw will offer a special menu Saturday to raise money for V-Day, an international campaign that aims to end violence against girls and women.
Dine on a truffle grilled cheese, beet Fettuccine, espresso-flavored petit fours and blood orange or raspberry creamsicles, with proceeds going to the fundraiser. The special dishes will be available a la carte, in addition to the eatery's regular menu.
