Switch things up this Valentine’s Day and surprise your partner with something other than dinner and a movie. (Photo by Cameron Enomoto)

By Cameron Enomoto | Staff Writer

When we think about dates on Valentine’s Day, usually a fancy dinner and a movie are what come to mind. While this may work for some couples, it’s a mediocre idea, at best, and unoriginal. Even confessions of undying love and devotion get boring after a while. Instead of wasting time getting sappy with your partner, spice things up with an unconventional date and take time to reconnect … or end up questioning your relationship.

Break’N Anger (1008-A Kawaiaha‘o St., Honolulu | $63-$130 per person): Why not kick off your date night by destroying items and wreaking havoc? Break’N Anger is Hawaiʻi’s only rage room where guests can break whatever they please in a safe space to release heavy emotions.

There are three experience options to choose from, all equipped with the necessary tools to work out any frustrations in your relationship. The Rage & Splatter room allows participants to pick items that they will destroy before getting suited up in protective gear. Once you’re in the room, you can unleash whatever pent-up energy you have and smash to your heart’s content. Each participant will also be given a canvas and five paints to allow their creative ideas to flow. There are no rules about self-expression at Break’N Anger. You can throw the paint on the walls or even at each other. This is a great way to blow off some steam and let your partner know you’re still upset at them for whatever it is they did. Similarly, the Smash Lab Rage Room focuses only on the destruction of items, and the Splatter Art Studio will have everything you need to unleash your artistic side.

Sports Box (1450 Ala Moana Blvd. Suite 2320, Honolulu and 98-023 Hekaha St. Suite 211, ‘Aiea | $75 per hour): Competition is another way to celebrate Valentine’s Day and your relationship, though it could possibly create more problems too. For the sake of a peaceful evening, let’s hope it’s not the latter.

At Sports Box, you and your date will be able to play sports like soccer, baseball, and golf, virtually. Though, there are more interesting choices like wild west shooting and dodgeball. You can bring your own snacks and kick back while you watch your significant other suffer defeat. Up to six people are accommodated in one box, which makes it perfect for double or triple dates if you want to embarrass your partner even more.

Clay Café (1960 Kapi‘olani Blvd. #208, Honolulu | about $25-$30 per ceramic piece): Couples who are looking for a more relaxed date can paint ceramics, sip coffee, and laugh at each other’s art skills. Clay Café has pre-made dishes and small statues of animals that you can personalize and pick up after they’ve spent a few weeks in the kiln. However, the product you think you created and the one you end up with can be entirely different if you’re not paying close attention to detail. When I tried to recreate one of my favorite anime characters on a plate, it ended up looking like a pathetic knock-off version from Hot Topic.

Clay Café recommends sketching any designs on your piece lightly so that the paint can cover it up. Additionally, painting in order of colors from lightest to dark will help cover any mistakes you make along the way.

Wave808 Karaoke (808 Sheridan St. #201, Honolulu | $40 per hour for a small room): Nothing says “I love you” more than tone-deaf singing at the top of your lungs. Having been to Wave808 Karaoke before, the experience was both thrilling and intimate. Of course, being able to bring your own food is a huge plus. The organization and selection of songs are impressive, and the different room sizes are perfect for various parties.

If you need recommendations for karaoke songs, look no further. These selections are relevant for people in relationships, those who have had their heart broken, anyone who is questioning where they stand with their partner, and people who just want to have fun with friends.

“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell is the perfect song for couples who are inseparable. Released in 1967, the lyrics convey a desire to be together forever and support one another no matter the distance between you.

If you’ve ever been cheated on, “Without Me” by Halsey is without a doubt one of the best songs to sing. Getting cheated on sucks and comes with a lot of emotional baggage that can be unloaded through karaoke.

Relationships aren’t easy and fights can happen. “Cry” by Ashnikko can help to relieve some of the anger and frustration that comes with arguments. The song is like an argument itself with an assortment of swearing among other choice words though aggressive singing is free therapy.

“You Give Love a Bad Name” by Bon Jovi was released in 1986, and broken trust and deceitfulness are no strangers to the artist. However, the lyrics remain timeless as people find solace in knowing that others have had similar experiences.

Last but not least, “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars is a classic for friends hanging out and partying together. In times of need, it is comforting to know that someone has your back no matter what.