To the untrained eye, it seems like Valentine's Day celebrations are poised to dominate the upcoming week Fifty Shades of Grey-style. However, a closer look reveals that the days ahead offer plenty of holiday counter-programming to enjoy, too. Adventurous locals can discuss diversity in business and media, enjoy a world-class concert and celebrate Chinese New Year — all without spending a dime. Keep reading for the five best free events in metro Denver this week. (And if you're looking for Valentine's Day fun, here's our guide.)

Powerful Women in Podcasting Panel
Tuesday, February 13, 6 p.m.
Deer Pile
Although podcasting is still a relatively new medium, a number of prominent women have risen to the top of the nascent industry. Aspiring podcasters, longtime fans and uninitiated listeners alike are welcome to join a panel of industry leaders for a spirited discussion about both the creative and business ends of production. Panelists Cat Jaffee, from House of Pod, Girls Gone WOD‘s Joy Parrish, Podcasts in Color‘s Danielle “Berry” Sykes, and Stuff Mom Never Told You co-host Emilie Aries will spotlight their experiences, challenges and triumphs. Aries, the CEO of Bossed Up, is particularly dedicated to empowering women in the business world through education seminars. Admission is free, but pre-registration is required at Bossed Up's events page, where readers will also find more details.

Incognito With Michael Fosberg
Thursday, February 15, 2 and 6 p.m.
The People's Building
Based on his memoir of the same name, Michael Fosberg's Incognito: An American Odyssey of Race and Self Discovery, is a one-man play that uses the prism of Fosberg's unique experiences to start a challenging dialogue about race relations. Since 2001, Fosberg has appeared in a number of media outlets and honed his presentation, influencing the way that corporate structures think about diversity within their own organizations. Part of Aurora's Black History Month celebrations, Incognito is a presentation unlike any other. Visit the City of Aurora's events calendar for more information about the play, as well as a number of other ways to honor Black History Month.

Chinese New Year Celebration
Thursday, February 15, 5 to 7 p.m.
Loveland Museum/Gallery
Though Chinese New Year doesn't officially begin until Friday, Coloradans can get a head start on the festivities at the Loveland Museum/Gallery. Enjoy toothsome cultural cuisine while participating in time-honored traditions like red envelopes, lantern-making, Chinese Zodiac games and more. Guests can also stick around after the ceremonies to peruse the gallery's offerings, including Transformation, an exhibit of the works of Chinese painter Hung Liu. Visit the Loveland Museum's events calendar for more details.