Galentine’s in Syracuse: Where to celebrate friendships this Valentine’s Day
Galentine’s Day preview
Local restaurants and businesses around Syracuse are hosting events that spotlight friendship beyond traditional Valentine’s plans.
Valentine’s Day often comes with a flood of Instagram posts featuring roses, candlelit dinners and couples dressed in red. But at its core, it’s all about love. But not just the romantic kind.
Galentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 13th, has become a modern “un-official holiday” to honor female friendships and platonic love. The term was coined from a Parks and Recreation episode back in 2010 in which fictional local government official Leslie Knope hosted a brunch to celebrate the women in her life, coining the phrase “ladies celebrating ladies.” Since then, it’s given people the chance to celebrate friendships or even self-love.
And Syracuse is not short on places to help do just that. Whether you’re single, taken, or somewhere in between, check out these local events offering a reason to get together with friends and make the most of the day of love.
Crazy Daisies Galentine’s Evening
Even though it’s the middle of winter and the flowers aren’t blooming, Crazy Daisies is open for business. This year, the flower shop is hosting a Galentine’s Evening at its Garden Cafe on Friday, February 13, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Guests can enjoy food, craft drinks and a beautiful atmosphere. Space for the event is limited; email info@crazydaisiesflowers.com to reserve a table.
Brunch at the Second Chance Diner
For those who prefer a daytime celebration, Second Chance Diner is offering a Galentine’s Brunch Board, perfect for sharing with friends. The board features chocolate-covered strawberry french toast, red velvet pancakes, raspberry cream cheese egg rolls, assorted breakfast meats (bacon, ham, sausage) and fresh fruit with dipping sauces.
Syracuse University senior Hannah Weiner is a huge fan of the Second Chance Diner.
“I was here a week ago with my family, and when I saw the brunch board on the menu, I immediately texted my friends asking to go on Valentine’s Day,” Weiner said.
‘Girl Dinner’ at XO Taco
This weekend XO Taco is hosting two different events, including a “Girl Dinner” special on Friday the 13th from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. and a brunch on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The dinner includes 2 house margaritas, macho fries, and chipotle Caesar salad for $40. And brunch will offer bottomless mimosas, $40 unwell pitchers, live music, and more!
Galentine’s Mixology
For a more interactive experience, Q’s Event Services will host a Galentine’s Mixology Night on Thursday, Feb. 12, at the Rail Line. Attendees will learn techniques on cocktail-making, explore the history of each inherent and make two to three drinks during the hands-on class. The night also includes a light dinner and a take-home gift. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.
Galentine’s Party at Captivate Wellness
If you’re looking to be more zen, join Captivate Wellness on Wednesday, Feb. 11 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. for an evening of beauty and fun. The event includes $13/unit Botox & Dysport with Srisha Eshleman, permanent jewelry with Rose & Co, and 15% off all retail products. So come solo or bring some friends and enjoy an evening to unwind.
Celebrating at home
If going out isn’t your style, Galentine’s can be just as meaningful at home. SU senior Anya Elias plans to host her friends.
“I invited my friend group over and we’re all bringing a different appetizer or dessert. We’re probably just gonna watch some silly romcoms, so I can’t wait,” Elias said.
Other students plan to take the day for themselves. SU senior Phoebe Sandstadt is having herself a self-care day.
“I made myself a manicure appointment and then I’m gonna go home and order in sushi while I put on a face mask,” Sandstadt said.
So whether it’s brunch with friends or a cocktail-making class, Galentine’s Day is a time to celebrate your greatest friendships. Syracuse use makes it super easy to celebrate, no reservation for two needed.
is a digital producer for The NewsHouse.