Are you ready to paint the town?

This year’s Paint the Town Pink event, of course, is here. The annual cancer research fundraiser kicks off today and will go throughout next week. Whether you’re diving into the water or cheering on our local sports teams, there’s myriad ways to get out, contribute, and have a good time.

1. Dinner for two

5:30-10:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Valentine’s Dinner at the Hormel Historic Home. Tickets are $55

If you’re looking for a last-minute Valentine’s Day date, try this dinner at the Hormel Historic Home. A social hour, dinner catered by Hy-Vee of Austin, and a show featuring River Rats Dueling Pianos.

2. Taking the plunge

3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Plunging for Pink at East Side Lake.

The second annual polar plunge takes place once again this Saturday, with registration still open. All participants are asked to donate at least $50 per individual, whether you jump with someone or by yourself.

We know Council Member Judy Enright will jump into the lake once again, but time will tell if we can top last year’s photo of her.

3. Mall art

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Polka Dots & Pink Arts Festival at Oak Park Mall. Free to the public.

Oak Park Mall is hosting an arts fair featuring local and regional art. Be sure to stay for the Pretty “Awesome” in Pink Fashion Show on the Oak Park Mall stage at 2 p.m.

4. Runnin’ down a donation

11 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 16. Paint the Town Pink 5K Walk/Run at the Mower County Fairground. $20 to participate, includes a stocking hat.

The YMCA of Austin is helping to organize a 5K Walk/Run for cancer, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to cancer research. Bundle up, though. It may get chilly, what with winter weather outside and all.

5. Crushing cars for cancer

2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16. Smashing Cancer Demo Derby at the Mower County Fairgrounds. $10 for adults, $5 for youths.

Demolition derby in the winter? Demolition derby in the winter. Come and cheer as cars smash into each other, causing really, really cool car wrecks in the process. You could even win a chance to drive a car, we hear.

There are plenty of events going on throughout the week for Paint the Town Pink, from health seminars on Monday to Family Fun Nights at The 1910 and lots of sporting events supporting cancer research. Check out the Herald everyday for a schedule of events.