Arguably the best fake holiday, Galentine’s Day takes place on Feb. 13 to celebrate a different kind of love–friendship. Believe it or not, the unofficial holiday was first introduced by the beloved character, Leslie Knope, from “Parks and Recreation” (season 2, episode 16 if you’re interested). Luckily, St. Augustine has plenty to offer the “gals” this holiday season.
1. Galentine’s Day Beach Picnic 🧺
For all the beach lovers out there, Galentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to get together with your friends and throw a totally Instagram-able beach picnic. And, no beach picnic is complete without a cute blanket, some flowers and a Galentine’s Day dish. Of course, St. Augustine has plenty of beaches to choose from including Vilano Beach, St. Augustine Beach and Porpoise Point. And who knows, you might even catch a celebratory pink sunset!
2. Galentine’s Day Party at The Art House 🎨
For those looking to avoid hosting this Galentine’s Day season, The Art House is throwing its very own Galentine’s Day party on Thursday, Feb. 13 from 6-8 p.m. Attendees can expect an evening of creativity with their gals as they craft custom lip colors with professional makeup artist Amanda Hopcraft, paint ring holders and design unique floral bud vases. Cost of entry for this event is $88.
3. Heart Breakers 💔
Join Flagler College on Thursday, Feb. 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and on Friday, Feb. 14 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. for its Heart Breakers fundraising event. Purchase a ceramic heart and write a message for your galentine inside. This year, all purchases will go towards the American Heart Association. $1-10 cash only. So, grab your friends and head on over to Kenan Plaza!
4. Charcuterie Board Night 🍓
This Galentine’s Day, add a festive twist to a classic girl’s night staple—the charcuterie board. From salami roses to glitter-coated chocolate covered strawberries and heart-shaped cheese bites, the options are endless for your Galentine’s Day-themed charcuterie. So, get creative and gather with your friends for some good food and conversation this holiday season.
5. Galentine’s Disco 🪩
Grab your cowgirl hats and silver boots and join Pierre’s Pub on Feb. 14 at 7:00 p.m. for their space cowgirl-themed Galentine’s Day disco! Organized by “The Voice” season 26 contestant, Cassidy Lee, the event will feature music performances from Lee as well as six other female artists including Roadie, Erica Reese, Julie Papili, Emma Moseley and Ava Rae Clark. Following the performances, Jacksonville’s Hush Hush will host a silent disco afterparty. The price of admission for this event is $14 and tickets can be purchased online via this link.
6. DIY Floral Bouquets 💐
DIY floral bouquets are the perfect low-maintenance Galentine’s Day activity. Stock up on some Trader Joe’s flowers, garden shears and vases, put on that love song playlist and get crafting!
7. High Tea at Chatsworth Pub 🫖
If you find yourself reaching for “Pride & Prejudice” every February, then Chatsworth Pub might be the place for you this Galentine’s Day. Located at 10 Marine St. in downtown St. Augustine, Chatsworth Pub is home to a beautiful and historic tearoom. Be transported back in time as you and your gals enjoy English Afternoon Tea, with festive snacks and flavors like strawberry essence and cacao rose. The cost for this service is $37 per person on weekdays and $40 per person on weekends.
8. A Galentine’s Movie Night 📽️
Calling all movie lovers! There are several new releases in theaters this February including Valentine’s Day Thriller, “Love Hurts,” starring Ke Huy Quan, and a horror, rom-com mashup, “Heart Eyes.” But for the classic girl’s night in, Galentine’s Day is the perfect time to catch up on the latest season of “The Bachelor.” Either way, get ready to cozy up with your gals this Galentine’s Day!
9. Specialty Menus 🍽️
There are a number of specialty menu items to be found in St. Augustine for Galentine’s Day. Head on over to Sunrise Brew Coffee and Sweetwater Cafe for some February-inspired beverages. Or try out the Valentine’s Day menu at Chez L’Amour–rumor has it there’s a raspberry marzipan torte for dessert. Whether you’re dining in or carrying out, food is the love language of this holiday season.
10. Spinster Abbott’s 🎶
For all the music-loving gals, Spinster Abbott’s will be hosting The Smiths (Robert) music group on Friday, Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. for a special Valentine’s Day show. Get ready to rock and roll this Galentine’s Day and join The Smiths (Robert) as they play songs from the English rock band, The Cure.
Bonus Item 🦁
Celebrating the Spirit of Flagler College.
Heart of a Lion, Love like a Saint! Check out The Mane Event on February 14th.
