Belinda M. PaschalColumbus Dispatch
If you're looking for a creative way to spend Valentine's Day with your sweetie — something less run-of-the-mill than a romantic dinner for two — there are numerous events in the area that fit the bill.
But Feb. 14 isn't just for lovers. Just ask Leslie Knope, patron saint of Galentine's Day, portrayed by Amy Poehler on the sitcom "Parks and Recreation." The women-centric "holiday" was written into existence by the show's writing staff.
A celebration of sisterhood around the world, Galentine's Day is often observed on Feb. 13, but can be held any day between Feb. 1 and Valentine's Day. Building friendships, empowerment and support among women are reinforced by gatherings of all kinds.
For instance, there's Made Local Events' 5th Annual Galentine's Party taking place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 11 at The Exchange at Bridge Park, a Cameron Mitchell Premier Event space at 6520 Riverside Drive in Dublin.
"Women are busy and we often don't prioritize time for ourselves. Galentine's for me is a day to enjoy my friends, laugh, be silly, have a glass of Champagne (or two) and relax," said Michelle Kirby, owner of Shelly Lou's Lids/Made Local Events.
"It is a well-deserved and much-needed day dedicated to celebrating me and my gals!"
The cost to attend the event is $10, with tickets available at eventbrite.com.
All about Valentine's Day: How the holiday became a celebration of love (and gifts).
Women who have experienced childhood and adolecent trauma and those who support them can attend the firstGalentine's Day Paint & Sip Party at Iridescent Soul Center, 4770 Indianola Ave., Building A, Suite 102, on Feb. 10.
The party grew out of Iridescent Soul Center's "Inner Child Playdate" to give women the opportunity to " to tap into their inner child to heal from and deal with trauma that might have happened in childhood or as a teen," according to owner and holistic wellness facilitator Barbara Carter.
"We wanted to create an event where women come together to have fun, do fellowship and bond with others, especially those on an inner-child healing journey. One of the ways we want to do this is to show love for self and love to one another."
The party goes from 5 to 7 p.m. and tickets cost $20 at eventbrite.com. The event is limited to 12 people.
Here are some other Galentine's offerings as well as a few Valentine's Day options that are a bit more off the beaten path.
Galentine's events
Shop and sip
What: Indulge in some retail therapy — and a rose spritzer — at this event hosted by The Skin Farmacy Co. and Palma Artisan Bags. Vendors will offer trendy fashion, curated holistic beauty products, artisan handbags, hair tinsel, micro tattoos, handmade and permanent jewelry and more. Sweet treats and charcuterie snacks will be available for purchase.
When: 4 to 7 p.m. Feb. 16
Where: The Grind Garage, 1210 W. 3rd Ave.
Cost: free, but you must reserve a spot at eventbrite.com
Cookie decorating
What: Create something from the heart and satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time! Our CupCakery provides all ingredients, baked goods, tools, and supplies, all you need is an apron and your bestie. The cookies will be baked and ready for you to decorate. Open to adults and teens 13 and older.
When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6
Where: 54 S. High St., Dublin
Cost: $79 for single general admission, $120 for 2 people at eventbrite.com. For $12, add on a pound of sugar-cookie dough to take home.
Love is in the air: White Castle once again taking Valentine's Day reservations
Women celebrating women
What: You and your circle of sisters can join YES! Columbus for light bites, cocktails, mocktails and decadent desserts while learning about the work YES! and Dress for Success Columbus do for the community. In addition to a hamming it up in the photo booth, you can sign up on the ticket site for mini tarot sessions by Columbus-based reader Chelsea Kempton.
When: 1 to 3 p.m. Feb. 11
Where: COhatch Easton, 4182 Worth Ave. Space #I-115
Cost: $15 general admission, $20 general admission plus tarot reading at eventbrite.com
Valentine's events
A Taste of Downtown
What: Mark Cupid's holiday with your beloved at this fundraising event to support New Herring Productions' 2024 season. Tickets include a performance of the troupe's latest production, "Love Letters," a VIP reception, hors d'oeuvres from Downtown restaurants and a cash bar.
When: Feb. 17. A cocktail reception will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and the play will begin at 8.
Where: MadLab, 227 N. 3rd St.
Cost: Tickets are $50 at newherring.org.
Couples craft night
What: The Five Party & Event Center makes it possible to be both romantic and practical for Valentine's Day! Each couple will be given all the supplies needed to build and customize their own wooden end table. Snacks, drinks and food also will be provided.
When: 7 to 10 p.m. Feb. 9
Where: 5316 N. Hamilton Road
Cost: $125 per couple at eventbrite.com.
Couples yoga
What: Join Yaizmen and Derrick of RawYoga614 for an intimate evening of relaxing yoga, a 10- to 15-minute couples chair massage, dinner, wine and dessert while listening to your favorite slow jams.
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 17
Where: 700 Bryden Road, Suite 157
Cost: $165 per couple at eventbrite.com.
Beer and cookie pairing
What: If you like suds and sweets, this collaboration between Taft's Brewpourium Columbus and Butters & Co. Bakery is right for you. You and your boo can explore and compare flavors as you experience a self-guided pairing of four beer samples, each accompanied by a fresh cookie.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Feb. 14
Where: 440 W. Broad St.
Cost: $20 at eventbrite.com.
bpaschal@dispatch.com
