Plants for Skin
Plants for Skin in Lawrenceville offers DIY workshops for products like body scrubs or body oils. Photo courtesy of Plants for Skin.

Who doesn’t love an excuse to have some fun with some of your besties? It’s time to round up your squad and get your Galentine’s Day plans in motion! Thanks to Leslie Knope from TV’s “Parks and Recreation,” this friend appreciation holiday on the day before Valentine’s Day is an absolute must on the social calendar. 

Whether you’re looking for a laid-back activity or craving something hands-on, we’ve got some ideas that’ll make your Galentine’s Day special. Because let’s be honest, there’s so much more to do than the classic brunch and happy hour routine. 

Gear up for a day filled with laughter, love and unforgettable memories with your ride-or-dies.

Permanent jewelry

Upgrade your childhood friendship bracelets with permanent jewelry to commemorate your bond. Choose between a bracelet, necklace, anklet or even a ring. 

The process is 100% safe, can be worn through any airport Transportation Security Administration checkpoint, and can be easily removed at any point in time. 

How long will it last? Well, the seamless pieces aren’t indestructible, so the lifespan of your jewelry depends on your lifestyle. 

More information about permanent jewelry and where to get yours in Pittsburgh can be found in this NEXTpittsburgh article on the trend

Photo courtesy of Plants for Skin.

DIY skincare

Head to Plants for Skin in Lawrenceville and whip up some self-care magic with your girlfriends. Plants for Skin offers holistic, healing and pocket-friendly skin care options as well as do-it-yourself workshops to get creative and inspired.

Whether you fancy creating your own luscious body butter, crafting a sumptuous body scrub or personalizing a scented body oil, Plants for Skin has got you covered. With the guidance of a knowledgeable and friendly instructor, you’ll get to choose the perfect color and fragrance for your product, all using natural, plant-based ingredients. 

Floral workshops

What says Galentine’s Day more than flowers? Let your creativity bloom as you and your friends craft a festive and romantic floral arrangement. 

Sign up for Sapphire and Lace’s workshop held on Feb. 13 in the adorable setting of The Flower Cottage in Wexford complete with floral-inspired cocktails or register for &Flowers Galentine’s Gathering on Feb. 10 and 13 in Highland Park with cookies, chocolates and bubbly. Learn floral arranging tricks and go home with a one-of-a-kind arrangement to brighten up your home. 

And it’ll be so much more than red roses. Expect a modern take on Valentine’s Day favorites with bold colors and unconventional buds. 

Photo courtesy of EZPZ Gatherings.

Attend Boarding School

Have some fun and eat it too! Round up the crew and immerse yourself in “boarding school” at EZPZ Gatherings in Aspinwall on Feb. 13.

Join the Galentine’s Charcuterie Workshop for an evening of creativity and culinary delight. Learn how to balance gourmet meats, cheeses and fruits to curate a visually stunning and delectable gathering board. 

It’s not just about the food; it’s about creating a masterpiece! Well, even if it’s not a masterpiece, you can still savor every bite! 

EZPZ has teamed up with Feast Gourmet Market & Eatery and Poppin Daisies to complement the class with flowers and fine wine. 

Workshop PGH’s February classes include hand embroidery, felt needling, candle-making and more. Photo courtesy of Workshop PGH.

Get crafty

Unleash your creative side at one of the many places around Pittsburgh. Dive into ceramics at Kiln n’ Time, explore woodworking, weaving, and sewing at Workshop PGH, experiment with mosaics and gold leaf art at Popcraft, or even try your hand at blacksmithing at The Barefoot Forge. No matter what you’re interested in and what part of the region you are in, there is bound to be a class for it.

Galentine’s events

Pittsburgh’s event lineup for Galentine’s Day is growing every year.

Experience the ultimate Galentine’s Day bash at Trace Brewing in Bloomfield on Feb. 13, featuring a blend of brews, cocktails, treats, tunes, shopping and art.

Head to the PA Market in the Strip District for a Galentine’s Day Wine & Cookie Decorating event as a wine flight meets cookie decorating on Feb. 8.

For a dash of glamor, indulge in the Galentine’s Day Fashion Show & Brunch, treating yourself to a delightful brunch, drinks and a fashion show followed by shopping local vendor accessories. It’s at Kimpton Hotel Monaco, Downtown, on Feb. 11.

Madison Blinn is a born and raised Yinzer always on the hunt for the latest and greatest things to do, places to eat or unique adventures to go on!