Valentine’s Day in Istanbul isn’t necessarily for everyone, but it’s got much to offer for those in love and plenty of potential for romantic gestures. Candle-lit dinners, roses, serenades from street musicians, walks by the Bosphorus hand in hand, etc. Just make sure you make your reservations well in advance.
For couples looking for something a little different, the jaded singles among us seeking distraction, and those just wanting to take part in something fun and light-hearted, we hope this list of alternative Valentine events can be of help.
Feb 13: Ladies Only Galentine’s Dinner at Los Altos
Welcome at 19:30; Dinner at 20:00; 70 TL Set Menu // Facebook Link
Yabangee is putting together their first-ever ladies only event, featuring an evening of authentic Mexican cuisine, expertly prepared drinks, a live Mariachi band, stunning Bosphorus views, and of course some fantastic company. The lovely individuals at Los Altos have put together a discounted and delicious set menu for the occasion. For any ladies interested in RSVPing, as of publishing, there’s a bit of space left. You can contact +90 538 438 35 64 to claim your seat.
Tomtom, Yeni Çarşı Cd. no:38/5, 34433 Beyoğlu
Feb 14: Drink & Draw Istanbul – Event #1 at No: 19 Dining
Doors at 19:30 / 150 TL entry (wine included) // Facebook Link
Drink and Draw Istanbul have undoubtedly found a winning combination here. What’s not to love? For their debut event they’re welcoming guests on Valentine’s evening, no matter their skill level, for a night of expressive creativity and drinking with like-minded company. You can venture to the Facebook event for more details and to claim your spot.
Faik Pasa Yokusu No:6 – Cihangir
Feb 14:Heavy Wallentine Night at The Wall Saloon
Doors at 20:30; 30 TL entry (includes 33cl beer) // Facebook Link
If you’re looking for an occasion free of traditional Valentine vibes, Wallentine Night offers performances from The 70’s Experience, Killing, and Razor Inc. to turn up the volume levels and help you channel your energy through a bit of heavy music. Ticket details via the Facebook link.
Caferağa, Neşet Ömer Sk. 5-7/A, 34710 Kadıköy
Feb 14: Woo York [live]: Valentine’s Day Special at Suma Han
Doors at 23:00; Early bird tickets 60 TL // Facebook Link
Meanwhile, electronic fans have a Valentine’s Day treat of their own with Kiev-based duo Woo York performing live in Karaköy’s Suma Han. Their signature techno sounds have grown from the melodic, to powerful and dark tempo sets that have been pleasing dancefloors since 2009 and most notably since dropping their internationally acclaimed EP in 2012. As of publishing, early bird tickets are still available via the Facebook link.
Azapkapı, 34420 Beyoğlu
Feb 14: Anti-Valentine Party at Sanat Performance
Doors at 21:30; Tickets available via Biletino // Facebook Link
Yabangee is trying something new this year, with an anti-valentine theme featuring live DJ tunes, socializing via games, a (optional) traffic light mini game, and some other fun in the mix. Despite the theme, it’s actually all going to be super positive vibes. So come join, mingle, and have some fun. Early bird tickets are available through Tuesday evening.
Hüseyinağa, Nevizade Sk. No:11, 34435 Beyoğlu
Feb 15: Catana Istanbul – Valentine’s Day Swap at Synergy – Le réseau professionnel Francophone à Istanbul
From 14:00 to 17:00 // Facebook Link
As the organizers rightly say, it’s a great opportunity to show love both to our old clothes and accessories (men’s, women’s, and children’s), as well as to our planet, by finding new homes for our unused belongings. Just make sure everything is in clean and good condition. More details via the Facebook link.
Ebe kizi sokak, sosko is merkezi, Block B, etage 7
Did we miss any? Please do feel free to offer suggestions in the comments.
