It’s that time of year again. Flowers and chocolate will flood mailboxes just as Facebook relationship statuses will amass comments – for better or worse. Both singles and couples can anticipate something “special” on Valentine’s Day.

From Latin dances to bitterness bashes, there’s always a way to celebrate.

The Valentine’s Date and Auction Party hosted by the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers is taking place 12 p.m. today at the Courtyard Cafe. The dance will begin at 8 p.m. with free admissions until 10 p.m. After 10 p.m., admissions will be $3.

The Japanese Intercultural Network is hosting a chocolate making event 2 p.m. Saturday at the Asian American Cultural Center.

The Women’s Resource Center will host a lunch session called “Dish It Up: Valentine’s Day Approach to Consent and Healthy Relationships” on Monday. Guest speaker Carol Fonseca from McKinley Health Center will lead the discussion.

Homer Lake Forest Preserve in Homer, Illinois invites couples to go on a guided hike through the historic preserve on Monday. The evening will include hot chocolate, viewing antique Valentine’s Day cards and sharing stories from Valentine’s past. The fee is $10 per couple, and the registration deadline is today.

Cakes on Walnut will hold cupcake classes in its kitchen with two-hour private sessions for the price of $150 per couple. The business will have specials from today through Sunday.

Bars including Red Lion and Firehaus will host a “Bitterness Bash” where someone can win a trip to the Bahamas for telling the best breakup or heartbreak story. Drink specials will occur on Monday night.