It’s been nearly 14 years since the fictional holiday “Galentine’s Day” was celebrated on an episode of the popular TV show Parks and Recreation on February 13th.
Since then, women all across America and even businesses have fully embraced the spirit of showing love and appreciation to your beloved pals. Check out our favorite list of ways to celebrate your best gal this month in the 412 and beyond!
Attend an official “Galentine’s” Event
This year Pittsburgh has a host of special events, pop-up shops, and more during the season of sisterhood.
Charcuterie + Cookie Class
Grab your girls, then head to the Queen Cheese shop in Mount Oliver for the ultimate charcuterie and cookie making class on February 7th. Decorate charcuterie inspired cookies with Becca Bakes and craft your own Valentine’s inspired charcuterie board. Also, participate in a wine tasting with Ripepi Winery!
Pop-Up Shops
Shop until you drop at three pop-up experiences!
Get a custom semi-permanent friendship bracelet on-site from Link+Bonded, while enjoying a glass of champagne and light bites at the Sips, Sweets & Bracelet Treats event at the Oaklander Hotel on February 9th.
Dress in your finest threads to prepare for a morning of shopping and good eats! Attend the Galentine’s Day Fashion Show and Brunch at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco on February 11th from 11am – 2pm. Tickets include brunch, two complimentary drinks, a primetime seat to the fashion show, and access to all participating vendor’s pop-up shops.
Spend Galentine’s Day officially at the Women Who Rock Pop-Up Shop in Southside Works on February 13th. Enjoy tunes from DJ Femi, specialty cocktails from Tipsy Wheels, charcuterie and desserts made by The Cheese Queen, freebies from vendors, jewelry, and much more!
Specialty Galentine’s Cocktails
No Galentine’s Day is complete without adorable drinks and endless photo-ops! Drop by Ritual House on February 13th to enjoy a specialty cocktail. Served in a pink disco ball that you get to take home, this festive cocktail features a refreshing blend of white wine, blackberry infused vodka, triple sec, white cranberry, grapefruit, and berry syrup.
Celebrate with Laughs
Pop some bubbly, then settle in for a night of laughs at the Arcade Comedy Theater downtown on February 10th. At Chris & Matty’s Champagne Social Club, you and your crew will enjoy a variety show with a speakeasy vibe full of comedy, music, and more. Also, this event is BYOB, making it the ultimate girls night out!
Attend a Candlelight Concert
Romantic evenings aren’t just for couples! Get all dolled up with your besties, then revel in a night of music at candlelight at the Omni William Penn Hotel. During this Valentine’s Day edition of the virally popular Candlelight Concert series, you will hear classical tunes from a few favorite romance movie soundtracks, played by an acclaimed string quartet.
Take a “Trip” to Barcelona
The recently opened Barcelona Wine Bar on Penn Ave boasts a wine list of over 20 pages long full of bold reds, crisp whites, and drinks that sparkle. Pair your glass with delicious internationally inspired tapas, large plates, desserts, and a vast selection of charcuterie and cheese options that rival that of Spain.
Embrace Your Inner Gamer Girl
Bring on the thrills! Explore two floor levels of amazing games at Barcadia in Market Square. As of February 1st, the adult friendly arcade is offering $10 unlimited game play! Spend the entire day fighting off the bad guys with your girlfriends! Meanwhile, indulge in tasty cocktails from one of their three bars. Take a break from gaming at the classic Speakeasy space on the third floor.
Where are you headed for Galentine’s Day with your gals? Let us know in the comments or get more ideas here!
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.