Six years ago, our favorite Pawnee goddess Leslie Knope changed the Valentine’s Day game. That’s right ladies; I’m talking about the birth of Galentine’s Day. Galentine’s Day, which is the best day of the year, falls annually on February 13th and is dedicated to strengthening bonds with your favorite lady friends and celebrating the beauty of friendship. On Saturday, ditch your boyfriend, round up your girlfriends, and party around Pittsburgh Knope style with these seven Galentine’s Day ideas.
1. Brunch
The First Galentine’s Day, hosted by Leslie herself, was a brunch event. Galentine’s Day luckily falls on a Saturday this year and several Pittsburgh eateries offer brunch menus on weekends. Some of the best spots include: Lidia’s in the Strip District for incredible pasta, The Urban Tap in Southside for a build your own Bloody Mary bar, and Eden in Shadyside for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free options. Short on cash? Try creating your own brunch by whipping up your favorite homemade recipes in the comfort of your own kitchen.
2. Ben and Jerry’s Buffet
What better way to celebrate any occasion than with ice cream? Ask each gal to bring one or two of her favorite Ben and Jerry’s flavors, line them up buffet style, and let the frenzy begin! Taste test new flavors, revisit old favorites, or mix together new creations- sugar high guaranteed. For those with vegan or lactose intolerant friends, fear not! Ben and Jerry’s recently released a new non-dairy line. Although not yet available everywhere, the new non-dairy Coffee Caramel Fudge may be worth the mini road trip.
3. Netflix Binge Session
After a long week, I encourage you to veg out on the couch and watch Netflix until your brain turns to mush. This casual night in could be just the thing you and your girlfriends need to recharge before the upcoming midterms. Netflix will soon release new seasons of some of its original series, so now is the perfect time to rewatch and catch up on some of the most highly recommended shows! Try Orange is the New Black for drama, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt for comedy, House of Cards for politics, or Daredevil for superhero action. You can’t go wrong, no matter what mood you’re in.
4. Pedicure/Spa Day
Spring break is quickly approaching, and nothing says “ready for spring” like a nice pedicure. Go for a beachy peach or bright pink to combat the dark and dreary colors of winter. Relaxing in massage chairs while catching up with friends will feel almost as good as getting rid of those annoying callouses. Looking to stay in Oakland? S&T Nail Design located on Meyran Street welcomes walk in appointments. For something a little fancier, Miss T’s Beauty Lounge in Shadyside offers hour-long pedicures.
5. Build Your Own Pizza Bar
Homemade pizza is crazy easy to make, delicious, and way less greasy than a Sorrento’s “large” $6.00 pie. Pick up a bag or two of premade pizza dough from Trader Joe’s to save some time. They carry plain for the traditional pizza lover, wheat for the health nut, and garlic & herb if you’re looking for a little more flavor in your life. Each girl should bring her own topping to the party in order create a full spread with lots of variety. You can blend your favorite cheeses, pile on the veggies, customize crust thickness, and ultimately create your own cheesy masterpiece. The opportunities are endless!
6. Happy Hour Bar Crawl
For a more adult Galentine’s Day, venture down to the Southside for discounted food and drinks. The restaurants lining East Carson Street make it easy to jump between bars to change up the atmosphere. Specials may vary on a Saturday, but many restaurants still offer some kind of cocktail and/or appetizer deal, with most happy hours happening from 4:30-6:30 pm or 5-7 pm. I recommend Emiliano’s on 25th Street or Steel Cactus on 19th (get the Yinzerita, you won’t regret it!). Nothing says happy hour quite like margaritas and salsa, am I right?
7. Secret Cupid
A gift exchange is a great way to spoil your friends without breaking the bank. Draw a name to determine which lucky lady will receive your gift, then go out and purchase the perfect present (just like Secret Santa!). Don’t be afraid to set a $10-$20 price limit to keep the event fair and inexpensive. Galentine’s Day themed items can be lipstick, chocolates, wine, or flowers. All will make great gifts for your girls!
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