Valentine's Day isn't the only Cupid-approved holiday that we like to celebrate come February. Before you break out the roses and wine for your significant other come February 14, it's time to celebrate your very best gal pals on February 13 a.k.a Galentine's Day.
Sure, it might not be an official holiday the way Valentine's Day is, but it's a chance to celebrate the wonderful friendships you have with the women in your life, no matter how happily single, coupled or in-between relationships they may be. While you can always opt to celebrate by going to your favorite restaurant or bar, Galentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to get creative. Our list of entertaining Galentine's Day ideas are perfect for friends who want to try something new.
Sure, you can head to a restaurant or bar, but if you're looking for more creative, active and entertaining ideas, check out our list of fun Galentine's Day ideas. If your group prefers to stay in, hunker down for a movie night with wine and mani-pedis or have a beauty product swap in your pajamas. Prefer to go out and hit the town? Sign up for karaoke or a paint-and-sip class or hit up a bunch of your favorite eateries for your own "food tour". Every group of friends might be different, but we can guarantee that this list has something for all ages and interests, helping to make this upcoming Galentine's Day your very best yet.
The Best Galentine's Day Ideas
Beauty Product Swap
Invite your gals to bring unused makeup products to sell or swap. Think primer, lipstick, mascara, eyeliner, brushes, you name it. It's all about gathering the right beauty essentials to put her best face forward. Feel free to share beauty tips while you're at it.
Fenty Beauty Highlighter
Glossier Priming Moisturizer
Food Tour
Here's an idea foodies won't want to miss. Take the day to food hop, where you explore popular menu picks at different restaurants or bars. A few days before Galentine's Day, search for any food trucks or pop-ups in your area to add to the list.
Cookie Swap
Who doesn't love cookies? Have everyone bake their favorite cookie recipe — from shortbread squares and pecan pie bars to merry meringues and white chocolate thins — then swap them at your gathering. You can check out these Valentine's Day cookie ideas for some of our tastiest options.
Coffee Date
Coffee dates are casual, inexpensive and great for people watching. They're also a super cute Galentine's Day idea for catching up. Host the date at home or your favorite coffee spot (be sure to bring your own mug!).
G-Day Thrifting
There's nothing like the thrill of the hunt. That's why thrifting is the perfect activity to keep everyone engaged. Encourage friends to find pieces (bonus points for vintage items!) related to Valentine's Day. Imagine all the fun they'll have hunting for clothes and accessories in vibrant shades of red, pink and white.
Bowling
Dates — even with just the girls — are meant to be exciting. This makes bowling a fun choice to keep the conversations going. Plus, it's a challenge that will delight any introvert with a competitive streak.
Park Stroll
Bundle up and get ready to browse the beautiful scenery at the park. Some parks are all decked out for the holidays (Central Park being just one of them!), so huddle as a group to revel in the festive decor. Exploring the outdoors is also a great way to feel refreshed while connecting with your circle of friends.
Volunteer
Since Galentine's and Valentine's Day are all about caring for others, connect with local organizations to help spread love to those in need. Whether it's assembling a care package or participating in a local clean-up project, it's never a boring idea to support your community.
Secret Galentine Gift Swap
The week before Galentine's Day, write everyone's names on pink, red or heart-shaped cards. Have them pick a name out of a hat and set a budget for buying presents. When it's finally time to meet on the big day, it'll be such a fun surprise when the secret Santas are revealed (along with the sweetest gifts that come with it!).
Make Candles
Scented candles are a creative Valentine's Day craft that can double as a gift. DIY your own lovely scents with an online tutorial. And since it's a romantic holiday, choose fragrances to fit the mood — jasmine, cherry blossom and lavender are just a few perfect choices.
Wine and Chocolate Night
Wine and chocolate make a great combination. Include various options (maybe even these chocolate caramel cookies) and enjoy a night of laughter and fun.
Peppermint Bark
Ferrero Rocher Chocolate Bars
Lindt Mini Pralines
Rom-Com Movie Night
Gather your girls for a night of binge-watching your favorite romantic movies. There are plenty of options to keep the evening going (including the heartfelt yet ill-fated love story of Jack and Rose from The Titanic).
Brunch
Brunch is an excuse for friends to have fun, relax and indulge in the delicious food presented to them. Add a G-Day spin to a weekend brunch with our Valentine's Day breakfast ideas.
DIY Photo Booth
It's always a pleasure to take pictures. They're also great for preserving special moments. Set up your own photo booth with a V-Day-themed backdrop for you and your girlfriends to capture the celebration.
Valentines Fringe Curtains
Paint and Sip
Painting and sipping are two things that mix well. Book a space for this event or gather your own materials and have friends bring their favorite drinks for an at-home art session.
Game Night
Playing games can keep the party engaging. You can create your own games such as Valentine's Day Family Feud or a G-Day scavenger hunt. You can even purchase a classic (like Friend or Faux).
