Leslie Knope, the much-loved protagonist of the American TV sitcom Parks and Recreation, coined the term Galentine’s Day back in 2010 for February 13th. It has made its way from the TV show into real life as an unofficial holiday on many calendars around the globe. As she said;
“Oh, it’s only the best day of the year. Every February 13th, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it, breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies.”
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While you can easily repurpose last year’s Valentine’s day goodies to give to your girlies, this is the perfect time to get them something a little bit special. Why not make it an experience with a day or evening out to enjoy each other’s company and put the world to rights?
Do something a little different
Got a little more time on your hands and want to plan something extra special? Make it a truly memorable Galentine’s day by taking a day out with a difference.
Sign yourselves up for a spa day* where you can relax in bliss as you are pampered and preened. From hot tubs to facials and pedicures with prosecco lunches thrown in, take some time with your besties to rest and recharge.
Any self-respecting gal pal has no doubt helped their fellow ladies out of some horrific dating situations so why not put those skills to the test?
Calling with an ‘urgent emergency’ when that Tinder date only wanted to talk about his ex or doing some surreptitious social media stalking will set you up well for an escape room adventure*, or if you are feeling particularly brave why not take it to the next level with a zombie experience* that aren’t for the faint of heart?
It’s perfect for the girls who like to do things a little differently.
If any of these ideas have got you excited, take a look at the deals on offer from Virgin Experience Days*. You could save up to 50% on a fun and fabulous day out to celebrate your gal pals.
Galentine’s events in Glasgow
Galentine’s Sunday Brunch, Sunday, February 17th
Hit up Revolution on Mitchell Street for a boozy brunch with your favourite ladies. For only £25 you’ll enjoy a tasty brunch meal plus four drinks from Revolution's brunch cocktails at this Bumble and Revolution collaboration.
Show your Bumble app when you enter to snag an exclusive gift bag. You can also look forward to a live DJ spinning 90’s tunes, a Bumble photo booth and a whole host of giveaways and prizes to be won.
Be My Galentine Dinner, Monday, 11th February
Be inspired with your besties at the Project Café on Renfrew Street. The evening will include a tasty vegan meal courtesy of Kawther from Ruzbowl plus a welcoming hot drink and a special Galentine surprise for all the attendees.
Led by Wellbeing Rebels founder, Lou Irvine, the evening will be full of laughs thanks to the host of female comedians and poets on hand to make the night a memorable one for you and your favourite ladies.
Galentine’s Week, 8th February – 15th February
Hit up All Bar One in Edinburgh or Glasgow with your girls for a perfect pit stop or beginning to your night. Order up to 4 small plates and be treated to a complimentary bottle of wine or 2 sharing Absolutini cocktails.
Galentine’s events in Edinburgh
Galentine’s Day, Wednesday, February 13th
Head to Edinburgh’s Hard Rock Café for a night of cocktails with your ladies. Enjoy a glass of prosecco upon arrival before being treated to a cocktail demonstration by a professional mixologist who will guide you through the steps to creating your very own cocktail.
Dance the night away once the class is over with a specially curated playset of female empowerment anthems.
Anti-Valentine’s Day, Wednesday, February 13th
If you’re feeling cynical about all things Valentine’s, a trip to a dark basement for drinks and a good giggle could be the perfect remedy.
Avoid the hearts and flowers and instead opt for some belly laughs with a night of comedy at The Stand. Let a quintet of comedians including Rachel Fairburn, Keir McAllister, Robin Grainger, Wayne Mazadza and Gus Lymburn keep you amused this Galentine’s.
Galentine’s getaways with the girls
If you’ve got a little more time and budget on your hands then why not get away from your daily 9-5 with some of your favourite people? Use Galentine’s as an excuse to relax, recharge and reconnect with your besties this year.
New York City
A long weekend in the big apple could be exactly what you and your ladies need. Hop a flight to Newark or JFK, and before you know it, you will be channelling Carrie, Miranda, Samantha and Charlotte on the streets of Manhattan.
Make a beeline for some serious shopping on 5th Avenue, hit the museums for a culture fix or explore the outer boroughs to see another side of New York with a getaway from Expedia.com*.
Copenhagen
Take in one of Europe’s trendiest cities with a trip to Copenhagen courtesy of Lastminute.com*. The Café culture here is off the charts with coffee lovers sure to find the perfect brew.
If you are visiting in February be prepared for a frosty winter wonderland so wrap up warm. Consider postponing your Galentine’s expedition a couple of months to explore this bike-friendly city on two wheels.
Brighton
If you want to stick a bit closer to home, hit up Brighton for fun-filled weekend with the girls. Famous for having over 400 pubs, roving hen parties and a grade one listed pier you are in for one funky weekend.
Your getaway doesn’t need to break the bank either; Travelodge* has two hotels in Brighton. Take advantage of their early check in and late check out to make the most of your time away.
Just remember to celebrate
Love and romance is all very well and good, but let’s face it ladies, it’s your girls that get you through the tough moments in life, so spend a day celebrating them in all their glory this Galentine’s.
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