Valentine’s Day can mean something different for everyone. Whether it be a candlelight dinner, an avalanche of chocolate, or a simple, sweet note from a friend, the theme remains the same: sharing love.
This year, many organizations are bringing this message to a more public scale. Here’s a taste of what a few groups are doing around the globe to spread the love this Valentine’s Day.
Heartwalk
Stand in the heart of NYC with this installation from Brooklyn-based design firm Situ Studio. (Photo via Inhabitat on Flickr’s Creative Commons.)
This year’s Times Square Valentine Heart design in New York City is built on heartbreak. Constructed out of Hurricane Sandy debris—specifically salvaged beach boardwalk boards from communities that were hit hardest by last fall’s disaster—the massive heart sculpture aims to embody the “love that binds people together during trying times.”
Titled ‘Heartwalk,’ the sculpture will be on display from Feb. 12 through Mar. 8.
One Billion Rising
From Singapore to Nigeria, Iceland to Bolivia, One Billion Rising aims to inspire women across the globe to demand an end to violence, rape, and silencing directed at women.
Its tactic? Encourage at least one billion women to organize and participate in local events—whether it be a flash mob, dance, or rally— on Valentine’s Day to call attention to the grave issue of female abuse. Find an event near you and join in.
Cupid’s Undie Run
With the motto “put the hilarity in charity,” Cupid’s Undie Run uses a blend of public humiliation and amusement to fundraise for a serious issue: curing tumor growth in children. Participants in the race submit entry fees that go directly towards The Children’s Tumor Foundation, a leading tumor research group. Originally a Washington, D.C. event, the race has now become a staple in Denver, Seattle, Austin, and a handful of other cities across the country.
While this year’s run is largely sold out, peep the event from the sidelines or get inspired to create a local version for next year.
Do you have any similar examples of public displays of affection that take Valentine’s Day out of the heart-shaped box? Leave a comment and let us know!
