The Best Dance Party in the City Is Back. Here’s How to Make a Night of It.

Folks, we have some alarming news: plan it right, and Valentine’s Day can actually be fun.

Rather than pay through the nose for a three-course meal and StubHub theater tickets, why not attend the chillest dance party in the city?

Freehold Brooklyn’s monthly “Instant Classic” is back for a second season, and the surprise musical guests, tunes and crowd promise to be better than ever. Pair it with a new Mexican spot straight out of Tulum and you’ve got some can’t-miss marching orders for Valentine’s Day and beyond.

Step one: THE FIT
A trés creative date lends itself to creative attire. Plus, it’s the one time it’s okay to roll into a cathedral in sneaks. Albeit, very nice, velvety, high-top sneaks from Lanvin. This evening’s attire also includes the world’s softest, yet most durable black tee courtesy of Unbound Merino under the newly-released splattered denim jacket from Palm Angels. It’s a dark, respectable and creative look, and very much appropriate for the festivities ahead.

Step two: THE FARE
After a well-received stint as a summer pop-up, the Tulum-inspired Gitano Jungle Room has set up permanent shop in Soho. It’s two stories of paradise on a plate serving up modernized Mexican and Mayan dishes. Jump off with shared small plates like the quesadillas with Gouda and black truffle. The move into the mains with a brook trout cooked in banana leaf. And wrap things up on the sweeter side with indulgent mini churros. From atmosphere to aperitifs, it’s a date night winner.

Step three: THE FUN
Bellies full and perhaps slightly buzzed, you’re heading over to the bridge to Williamsburg to work some of those calories off at FREEHOLD, where they’ve revamped their “Instant Classic” party for a second year. The ‘70s-inspired night is a five-part music series rotating in-house performances with surprise guest appearances from members of groups like LCD Soundsystem, The Knocks, Holy Ghost and Escort. Performers for each affair are announced two weeks prior to the event. And if you botched making V-Day plans, you’re in luck, as the series kicks off this Thursday, February 14th with disco and funk from Ross Clark of St. Lucia and a performance by Game of Thrones star DJ Finn Jones. RSVP here.