
We love a day specifically for the gals, which is why Galentine’s Day in Chicago is our favorite holiday! For those of you who don’t know, Galentine’s Day is a platonic Valentine’s Day celebrated on February 13. Popularized by the iconic Park and Recreation episode, this unofficial holiday is all about celebrating friendship, eating waffles, and drinking rosé. Whether you want a Valentine’s dinner with friends or guzzle down bottles of champagne, we’ve got you covered.
Grab a bottomless brunch spot at your favorite spot in the city

Leslie Knope’s favorite food is waffles. Do her proud by drowning yours in syrup and digging in. Do you want a restaurant recommendation? Check out our list of brunch spots in Chicago! Specifically, I|O Godfrey will be having a special Galentine’s Brunch on Sunday, February 16, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This extended brunch session features cocktail & dessert flights, build your own mimosa station and more.
Grab a glass of wine at All Together Now

There are a few amazing spaces around the city where you can grab a glass of wine with friends—and All Together Now is a quaint spot brimming with wine bottles waiting to be uncorked. What’s better than celebrating Galentine’s Day in Chicago with a glass of wine? Maybe seeing Taylor Swift?
Book a Galentine’s Day spa session

Aire Ancient Baths are the quintessential place to relax, rewind, and gossip with friends. From customizable massages to a velvet garden with floral installations from a local florist, the serene restored factory will have specials from February 14th to February 19th. So get on the reservations now and head to AIRE Ancient Baths to pampering day with friends!
4. Grab the besties and plan to visit Sofitel Chicago for Galentine‘s Day

The Sofitel Chicago is partnering with local perfumery Workshop Apothecary for an evening of fun and creativity on February 13th from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Taking place at the hotel’s European-inspired bar, Le Bar, attendees will have the chance to create their very own signature scent with expert guidance along with a glass of complimentary bubbly—perfect for friends looking for a Galentine’s Day activity.
Make a candle with your favorite people

You certainly don’t have to go all out like Leslie Knope with hand-crocheted flower pens, mosaic portraits, or a 5,000-word essay about why your friends are so great, but making an aromatic candle can be the perfect Galentine’s Day in Chicago celebration. At Black Luxe Candle Co., an instructor will help you as you pick a favorite fragrance and vessel and then mix, measure, and pour your very own candle. And gifting it to someone can express how much your friends mean to you.
Celebrate with friends at Homeslice

Join Lincoln Park’s Homeslice for their Galentine’s Day party happening on Tuesday, February 13th from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. With $25 tickets including an Alice & Wonder Chicago wine glass, first glass of Kim Crawford wine, and one Bon Vivant cookie, Homeslice will also be offering heart-shaped pizzas, themed cocktails, a spritz bar, glam station, cookie decorating, and shopping pop-ups.
Throw a Magnolia Bakery cupcake party with friends!

What’s Galentine’s Day without tasty treats? Get your pals together for a baking party where each of you brings a recipe to make delicious pastries, cookies, and cakes. Make it even better by binge-watching the Great British Bake Off while you work. Or, if you’re feeling more like ordering in, grab a box of Magnolia Bakery cupcakes to go!
Volunteer somewhere to spread the love even further this year

Doing something good with friends can bring you even closer. From volunteering at an animal shelter to donating to a food bank, give back to the community by volunteering with an organization you care about. Need a few suggestions? Check out our list of non-profits that are making positive, social change in Chicago.
Have a Galentine’s Day laugh at Second City

Second City has been bringing comedy and laughs to Chicago for over 60 years, and Galentine’s Day really wouldn’t be complete without a bellow of laughter with friends. Their Chicago alumni list is expansive, with some of the funniest names on the planet—including the inventor of this particular day—Amy Poehler!
Get super dressed up and head out for a night on the town

As Donna and Tom would say, “Treat yo self!” Order a bottle of champagne for the table at The Bassment, the Octoshots at Three Dots and a Dash, or head to any of the great speakeasies ! Have the time of your life! You and your pals deserve it.
Host a game night at Bonus Round Game Cafe

Who doesn’t like a game night? Located in Lakeview, Bonus Round has a full kitchen, cafe, and bar with a library of over 450 board and card games, as well as knowledgeable staff to teach you how to play. They also have a delicious menu of sandwiches, desserts, and drinks to munch on, along with vegan and gluten-reduced options so everyone can come to game night! Or, make a reservation at Kibitznest for a game night filled with laughter and drink options. The cozy bookshop bar also hosts comedy nights and literary salons.
Galentine’s Staycation

For those celebrating friendship, Loews Chicago O’Hare is offering a Galentine’s Suite Package, a luxurious overnight stay designed for the ultimate girls’ getaway. The package includes a beautifully decorated suite, bubbly, sweet treats, and a self-care experience perfect for a cozy, fun-filled night.