If you’re still on the hunt for Valentine’s Day ideas, check out this week’s Eats & Drinks article, “Food Actually,” but besides a couple of Galentine’s Day events, like Sip & Sing on Saturday at The Poop Deck (3505 Blue Bonnet Cir, Fort Worth, 817-921-4861) and the sweet, sweet deal at Maple Branch Craft Brewery (2628 Whitmore St, Fort Worth, 817-862-7007) on BOGO pizzas for Valentine’s Day, I’m actually ready for the next big thing(s), including the return of the traveling monks. And their dog.
Saturday, February 14, 2026
Yes, indeed, the boys are back in town. A group of Buddhist monks has been on a 15-week Walk for Peace from their home in Fort Worth to Washington, D.C. Along with their famous rescue dog mascot, they will return home today. They were already wildly popular, but little Aloka needed veterinary surgery along the way due to a leg injury. Images of him being carried and riding in a cart during recovery made the group a viral sensation and symbol of compassion. The stinking-cute heart-shaped mark on his head probably didn’t hurt either…