For full listings of what’s going on all week in the Old Port, be sure to visit our Events page.
Friday, February 12: If you’ve never been to a tribute show at Empire, we recommend you make it a point to start with tonight’s Tribute 2 Florence + the Machine. We haven’t seen the lineup, but hear that several of Portland’s many talented singers and musicians will be performing Florence’s top tunes. Doors open at 9:30 p.m., and the show is at 10 p.m. Tickets are $8. Empire, 575 Congress St.
Saturday, February 13: In case you hadn’t heard, it’s Valentine’s Day weekend. If you want to skip some of the hustle and bustle of actually going out on the big day, why not celebrate a day early with the Portland Symphony Orchestra at PSO POPS! Portland in Love. The orchestra will be joined by vocalists Lyle Divinsky and Sara Hallie Richardson to perform several romantic songs, ranging from opera pieces from “Carmen,” to “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin & Tammi. Tickets start at $32 and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. If you are more of a traditionalist, don’t worry, they will also hold a second performance at 2:30 p.m. Merrill Auditorium, 20 Myrtle Street.
Sunday, February 14: OK, it’s here. The big day. Time to get your romance on. Nothing planned? Don’t worry, we’ll map it out for you. Start your day of L-O-V-E with your sweetie the Valentine’s Day Brunch, starting at 11 a.m. at The Thirsty Pig. The preliminary menu features such culinary offerings as Eating Your Feelings Burrito, Swipe Left French Toast Toad-in-the-Hole, and Shoulda Put a Ring On It Chocolate Pancakes. There will also be live music from Joel Thetford, and Joe Gallant and The Transit. The Thirsty Pig, 37 Exchange Street.
Next, knock their socks off with…poetry. That’s right, it’s Valentine’s Day, it’s OK to take your date out for some romantic poetic musings. Chris Schmidt, a poet in the process of publishing a book of poetry, will be giving a poetry reading at MJ’s Wine Bar from 3-5 p.m. MJ’s will be offering several glasses of wine on special, including rosés, because, duh, Valentine’s Day! MJ’s Wine Bar, 1 City Center.
Finally, head over to Vena’s Fizz House for their Valentine’s Day Special. From 2-6 p.m. customers will be able to choose 2 of Vena’s amazing specialty cocktails and small bites for $35. Cocktail options include the Love Potion #9 (made with gin) and Aphrodite’s Revenge (made with Godiva Liqueur and vodka). The small bite choices include chicken salad pretzel crostini, caprese pretzel crostini, shepherd’s pie canapé and molten chocolate cupcakes. Vena’s Fizz House, 345 Fore Street.
As to where to head next, you’re on your own. We’ve mapped out the rest of your day for you, you are on your own for dinner!
