With Valentine's Day approaching and the weather warming up a little, this weekend is perfect for getting out and spending time with that special someone. Tonight, head to Salsa Mississippi's Valentine's Dinner and Dance at Crossroads of Life Church (6775 S. Siwell Road, Byram) and learn how to fox trot. Dinner is served at 6 p.m. Lessons begin at 7:30 p.m. and open dancing is 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is $15 for singles; $25 for couples in advance and $30 for couples at the door. To purchase tickets, call 601-213-6355 If you want to cozy up with the one you love, head to the Russell C. Davis Planetarium (201 E. Pascagoula St.) for a screening of Oscar-nominated short films at 7 p.m. and animated films at 9 p.m. Tickets are $7. For more information, visit http://www.msfilm.org. To find more events, check out the JFP Best Bets page or the JFP Events Calendar.
On Saturday, head to the Mississippi Farmer's Market to find handmade crafts, jewelry and specialty foods for your Valentine. Then, take your pick of causes to support while getting out for a night of music, art and fun. The annual Mississippi HeARTS Against AIDS benefit is at Hal & Mal's (200 Commerce St.) at 6 p.m. The event features a live and silent art auction, entertainment by Eric Stracener & The Frustrations, Scott Albert Johnson, Natalie Long and Clinton Irby, and Mama's Black Sheep, and food from dozens of local restaurants. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door.To purchase tickets, call 601-668-6648. If you'd rather act like a kid again, head to the Mississippi Children's Museum for the "Ignite the Night" gala at 7:30 p.m. The fundraiser features a performance by Elvis impersonator Tim Johnson, access to the museum's exhibits, a photo booth, and food from Fresh Cut Catering. Tickets are $100 and available until 5 p.m. today by calling 601-981-5469. See the JFP Music Listings for all the music options in Jackson.
Catch a matinee performance of "Cheaper by the Dozen" at Black Rose Community Theater (103 Black St., Brandon) Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12; $10 for students and seniors with ID. For more information, call 601-825-1293. Afterward, grab dinner at a local restaurant such as Babalu, Burgers & Blues or BRAVO! Still hungry? See the JFP Restaurant Listings and the Menu Guide.
Is something missing? To make sure your event is listed on the JFP calendars, send the information to [e-mail missing] or [e-mail missing], or add your event yourself. It's easy!