Itchy City guide to Sheffield. Food, drink, film, music, stage, events, shopping, offers and competitions within Sheffield, Great Britain.

So it's nearly that time of year again. The one day out of 365, that makes even the most calm and collected of people unravel faster than a ball of wool between a kitten's paws. Yes that's right it's time for the Valentines onslaught to begin.

Whether you're single or paired up there are certain things about Cupid's big day that will bring you out in a silent panic. So to make it easier for you Itchy have come up with a few Valentine's day suggestions for those who find themselves with a lover attached to their hips as well as for those who are flying solo.

Singletons: Don't despair if you find yourself alone this year. Itchy believe you can have just as much fun on your tod as with a romantically inclined beau. Thank your lucky stars you don't have a demanding lover to please and rejoice in activities that may not seem romantic but which are definitely fun.

Head to Plug and catch some of Iraqi rapper Low Key's dynamic set. Itchy have never heard of a rapper from Iraq before but we guess the two things kind of go together like bacon and eggs. After all rap is angry and if we grew up in Iraq we'd probably be angry too. Plus we doubt you'll run the risk of bumping into any lovebirds here.

Or how about buying yourself something pretty to cheer yourself up? Who says singles can't get presents on Valentines day, Itchy says to hell with conformity we'll just give ourselves gifts. Check out Sheffield's Craft Mafia in the Basement on West Street and pick up everything from vintage clothes and handcrafted accessories to icing heavy little cupcakes.

Finally as you'll probably want to avoid the misty eyed and loved up may we suggest you avoid all the typical fancy restaurants and grab a few other single mates for a mini bar crawl around Sheffield. Start somewhere a bit classy like art: room and then progress into a haze of alcohol-induced forgetfulness while enjoying a bit of Jazz.

Lovebirds: So you bagged yourself a date for the big day – lucky you. Well Itchy hate to be the bearers of bad news but getting a romantic partner was only half the battle. It's time to pull out the big guns and impress your Juliet with just how loveable you can be.

A cosy meal for two is always a good start to winning over someone's heart. If you're a bit strapped for cash though do it on the cheap while still coming out looking more romantic than a chocolate stuffed teddy bear. Pay a visit to the Urban Deli and stock up on gourmet treats like locally smoked salmon and handmade choccies.

Pack everything in a quaint wicker basket and head to Endcliffe Park and bobs you're uncle you are a modern day Romeo. Feeling a bit flush, and fancy splashing the cash a little? How about heading to a chic Italian for dinner instead. They say that Italian is the language of love, so try impressing your date with a trip to Felicini. Order a spaghetti dish and you can even try recreating that famous scene from Lady and the Tramp – bewarned though the slushiness of such interludes may make you feel slightly queasy.

Last but not least if you're looking for something a little bit different you could always check out the Velvet Burlesque Valentines Day Party and Cabaret Night. Ensure it's a date to remember by whisking your love off to see these burlesque acts and who knows they may just get the hint and try to recreate the magic for you later when you get home – you wish.