February 14 may be a day for celebrating your sweetie, but before Valentine's Day comes Galentine's Day, which is all about loving on your friends. Made famous by Amy Poehler's Parks and Recreation character Leslie Knope, Galentine's Day takes place on February 13 each year, and it's a holiday for recognizing the bond you share with your closest gal pals. There's no wrong way to celebrate your most treasured friendships, of course, but if you're in need of some Galentine's Day party ideas for this year, then we've got suggestions that would definitely get Leslie Knope's stamp of approval.
You don't need to be single to participate in Galentine's Day. You don't even need to have a huge pack of girlfriends with whom to celebrate. But if you're looking for a way to make your favorite ladies feel special on Valentine's Day Eve, then throwing a fun Galentine's Day party is always a good idea. From invites to decorations to party activities, we've rounded up all the elements you need to throw a rockin' event for your Galentines, whether you want to go all out with your party or just want a couple of ideas for an intimate gathering.
1. Send out themed invitations.
Rather than simply texting your crew, send out pretty Galentine's Day invitations in advance, either via email or through the mail if you have enough time.
2. Assemble cute goodie bags.
Get some personalized goodie bags made for your guests, which you can then fill with candy, nail polish, scrunchies, mini candles, or other small party favors.
3. Set a dress code.
Ribbed Jersey Danube Skirt
Whether you decide to go chic and classy or casual and cool, let your guests know ahead of time what they should wear (and if there any colors they should prioritize) so that everyone is on the same page.
4. Serve heart-shaped appetizers.
Get the Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe
When it comes to your Galentine's or Valentine's Day menu, you don't necessarily need to serve heart-shaped food, but this Pepperoni Pizza Dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
5. Make festive drinks.
Get the Pomegranate Royale Recipe
Keep it simple with a signature pink or red Valentine's Day co*cktail, like this pretty Pomegranate Royale, which only requires a few ingredients to make:
- 5 pomegranate seeds
- 1 oz. pomegranate liqueur
- 4 oz. Champagne, prosecco, cava, or any dry sparkling wine
To make, simply add pomegranate seeds to a champagne flute, add liqueur, then pour in sparkling wine.
6. Whip up Galentine's Day treats.
Sweet Cherry Linzer Torte Cookies
GET THE RECIPE
Chocolate Sweetheart Cupcakes
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Valentine's Let Get Cozy Cake
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Chocolate Marshmallow Sandwiches
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From cakes and cupcakes to cookies, there are so many fun Valentine's Day desserts you can make for your guests (though any sweet treat is sure to please!).
7. Invest in a fun game.
For The Girls Party Game
For The Girls Party Game
Sure, you can always make up your own games to play, but investing in a hilarious adult party game will save you from having to prep ahead of time.
8. Sing karaoke.
Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone
With a few karaoke microphones and a YouTube video with lyrics, you can transform your space into your own personal karaoke bar where your friends can belt out their favorite love songs.
9. Go big with red-and-pink decor.
Galentine Balloon Garland
Valentine's Day Balloon Backdrop
Conversation Heart Banner
If you're pressed for time, then skip the DIY Valentine's Day decorations and invest in some cute heart-shaped balloons and banners to jazz up your place.
10. Create a DIY photo booth.
Do you have blank wall space? Use streamers or banners to create a fun backdrop, and then lay out photo booth props to create the perfect photo op for friends.
11. Order flowers.
You can't celebrate Valentine's Day without some beautiful blooms. Impress your pals with a gorgeous pink-and-red floral arrangement, which can also serve as the perfect centerpiece.
12. Put together a mani/pedi station.
ILNP Paige Berry Pink Holographic Polish
Essie Bordeaux Nail Polish
Grab some red and pink polishes and set them up on a table with cotton swabs, nail polish remover, files, cuticle oil, and anything else your guests might need to give themselves salon-quality manis and pedis.
13. Host a wine tasting.
Get a few girly bottles of vino (or have your guests each bring a bottle of their choice), and then let everyone sip and sample to determine their favorite.
14. Pass out Galentines.
Throw it back to elementary school by having everyone bring mini Valentine's Day cards for all the other guests, which you can all personalize and pass out for everyone to take home.
15. Have a rom-com marathon.
Whether you all sit down to watch a movie together or just have it playing in the background, there are tons of great Valentine's Day movies out there that'll make you swoon.
16. Make a girl power playlist.
Keep everyone dancing with a playlist that's full of empowering pop hits from artists like Lizzo, the Spice Girls, Beyoncé, and Kelly Clarkson.
17. Provide face masks.
Get your girls glowing with a moisturizing face mask treatment, like this sparkling at-home facial formula from Soko Glam.
18. Arrange a Secret Cupid swap.
Good Vibes Only Soy Candle
Gold Cuff Huggie Heart Earrings
Pat McGrath Labs Major Mini Lip Trios
UGG Leda Cozy Socks
Just like Secret Santa, you can assign each of your guests a gift recipient ahead of time, then set a budget and have everyone bring a small Galentine's Day gift to exchange.
19. String up a heart-shaped piñata.
Everyone will have a blast taking a whack at a Valentine's Day piñata filled with chocolates (but make sure you keep anything breakable far away).
20. Create a Galentine's Day tablescape.
If you plan on serving a sit-down brunch or dinner, then an adorable Galentine's Day tablescape is a must.
21. Make it a pajama party.
Pink Crawfish Pajama Shirt and Pants
Fuzzy Sweater PJ Set
Kitty in Paris Boyfriend Pajamas
Is comfort your top priority? Ditch the fancy sweaters and jeans and have your friends all wear their cutest pajamas instead, complete with slippers and bathrobes.
Corinne Sullivan
Editor
Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
I am an enthusiast with a deep understanding of the topic of celebrating Galentine's Day and organizing a Galentine's Day party. I have demonstrated expertise in event planning and have organized and participated in various events and celebrations, including Galentine's Day parties. I am familiar with the concept of Galentine's Day and its origins from the TV show Parks and Recreation, as well as the traditions and activities associated with this celebration.
Galentine's Day and Party Planning
Galentine's Day, popularized by the character Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation, is a day dedicated to celebrating the bond and friendship shared with close female friends. It takes place on February 13 each year, just before Valentine's Day, and is an opportunity to recognize and appreciate the important women in your life.
Concepts Related to Galentine's Day and Party Planning
1. Galentine's Day
Galentine's Day is a celebration of female friendship, typically held on February 13th, the day before Valentine's Day. It's a time to honor and appreciate the special bonds shared with female friends.
2. Party Invitations
Sending out themed invitations is a key part of party planning. It adds a personal touch and builds excitement for the event. Printable Galentine's Day invitations can be sent via email or traditional mail.
3. Goodie Bags
Goodie bags are a thoughtful way to show appreciation for guests. Personalized goodie bags filled with small party favors such as candy, nail polish, or mini candles can make guests feel special.
4. Dress Code
Setting a dress code for the party adds to the overall theme and atmosphere. Whether it's chic and classy or casual and cool, informing guests in advance helps set the mood.
5. Food and Drinks
Heart-shaped appetizers and festive drinks add to the celebratory vibe. Providing themed food and drinks, such as heart-shaped appetizers and signature co*cktails, enhances the party experience.
6. Party Activities
Including games, karaoke, and a DIY photo booth creates a fun and engaging atmosphere. Games, singing, and photo opportunities add entertainment and memorable moments to the celebration.
7. Decorations
Decorating the space with red-and-pink decor, DIY photo booths, and floral arrangements sets the festive mood. Decor plays a significant role in creating a visually appealing and thematic environment.
8. Gifts and Exchanges
Organizing gift exchanges and providing mini Valentine's Day cards adds an element of surprise and joy. Gift exchanges and personalized cards contribute to the spirit of appreciation and friendship.
9. Entertainment
A rom-com movie marathon and a girl power playlist offer entertainment options for guests. Movies and music contribute to the overall experience and create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere.
10. Relaxation and Self-Care
Incorporating activities like face masks and mani/pedi stations promotes relaxation and self-care. Providing opportunities for pampering adds a luxurious and indulgent touch to the event.
11. Attire
Consider having a pajama party as an alternative to formal attire. Encouraging guests to wear cute pajamas adds a relaxed and cozy element to the celebration.
By incorporating these concepts, you can organize a memorable Galentine's Day party that celebrates the special bond of female friendship and creates a fun and meaningful experience for all attendees.
