4 ideas for celebrating Galentine’s Day with your gal pals in the Wilmington area

Allison Ballard, Wilmington StarNews
·2 min read

Galentine’s Day is a fictional holiday -- one that was celebrated by Leslie Knope on the “Parks and Recreation” series the day before Valentine’s Day to honor her female friends. But something about the idea of waffles, brunch and gifting with your gal pals resonates beyond the small screen.

Now, a dozen or so years after that episode aired, it’s become a real, in-person phenomenon. Just take a look at some of the events planned in the Wilmington area as proof. If you want to celebrate, here are just a few ways to do so.

Brunching

Enjoying brunch with the ladies is a classic Knope move. There are lots of brunch options in Brunswick, Pender and New Hanover counties. But also check out a couple of special events. The Eagle's Dare at 420 N. Third St. in Wilmington is offering the boozy, sassy Valentina's Galentine's Day Burlesque Brunch at 1 p.m. Feb. 12.

A mural of Sister Rosetta Thorpe, known as the godmother of rock 'n' roll, at The Eagle's Dare bar and beer garden at 420 N 3rd St. Wilmington, N.C. ALLISON BALLARD/STARNEWS
A mural of Sister Rosetta Thorpe, known as the godmother of rock 'n' roll, at The Eagle's Dare bar and beer garden at 420 N 3rd St. Wilmington, N.C. ALLISON BALLARD/STARNEWS

Meanwhile, the Luxe Picnic Company is hosting a Galentine's Day Brunch beginning at noon on Feb. 11. It takes place at Dreamers by DW at 118 S. Fourth St. in Wilmington. There is an option of four brunch entrees and a selection of mimosas.

Wining and Dining

Among the history-and-wine fueled options from Wilmington Walking Tours is the Galentine's Wine Bar and History Stroll. You and your friends can walk through the historic district, with stops at Wilmington's best hidden gem wine bars. Upcoming dates include Feb. 10 and 25. Or if you're in Southport, check out LaPolena Bed & Breakfast for a special edition of their Women & Wine Wednesdays. It starts at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 8.

A wine glass. STARNEWS FILE PHOTO
A wine glass. STARNEWS FILE PHOTO

When it comes to dining, fondue is a great option for Galentines. Wednesdays are Ladies Nights at Little Dipper at 138 S. Front St. in downtown Wilmington. And the Melting Pot in the Mayfaire shopping center also offers the Best Fondue Friends Forever menu on Wednesdays and has a special option for Galentine's week.

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Crafting

Another favorite activity for Leslie Knope is creating gifts for her friends. You can make one together at Wrightsville Ave Boutique, 250 Racine Drive. The S.C.-based Rock ‘n’ Roots Plant Co. offers a Galentine’s succulent-themed workshop at 6 p.m. Feb. 10. It includes materials, charcuterie and wine. There’s also a terrarium workshop from this same company on Feb. 9 at the Wilmington Catawba brewing location.

Rock 'n' Roots Plant Co. is hosting a Galentine's Event in Wilmington.
Rock 'n' Roots Plant Co. is hosting a Galentine's Event in Wilmington.

Dancing

What’s more fun than some time on the dance floor with your friends? This is the third year that Wilmington Latin Dance is hosting their Sip and Shimmy event for Galentine’s Day with a dance lesson, beverages and sweet treats. It takes place at The Studio Collective, 5629 Oleander Drive. From 7-9 p.m. Feb 13.

Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her ataballard@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Ideas for celebrating Galentine's Day in Wilmington area