Whether or not you are a fan of the show Parks and Recreation, by now you know that Galentine’s Day, which was created by the show’s main character, Leslie Knope, is almost as popular as Valentine’s Day itself. Celebrated right before February 14th, it is the perfect opportunity to honor your girl group, or as Leslie says, “Ladies celebrating ladies.” Read on below for more information on Galentine’s Day events and happenings in Montclair and Essex County for a special Girl’s Night Out.
Charcuterie + Candle Event
(Photo credit: @alchemy.scentbar)
Alchemy Scent Bar hosts create-your-own candle experiences in Downtown Montclair. The team will be partnering with Plated by D to create a Charcuterie and Candles event on February 10th to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your BFF. Call to reserve this $55 ticket at 862-930-2333 and participants will be supporting two women-owned businesses.
Comedy Night
(Photo credit: @bonds.tavern)
Head to Bonds Tavern in West Orange for dinner and a show for a girl’s night on February 10th. The Pre Valentine’s Day Comedy event tickets can be purchased here. Indulge in the tavern’s alcohol-infused milkshake selection and fun menu as well.
Cupid’s Chase + Unique Fitness Workouts
Not for the faint of heart, Cupid’s Chase is a 5K taking place on February 12th in West Orange. Volunteers raise funds and awareness to support housing and employment for people with disabilities. The run begins at 10AM and more details are available here. If workout classes are more of your group’s style, check out The Montclair Girl’s Ultimate Guide to Unique Fitness Classes in the area.
Eclectic Chic Boutique and Candle Event
(Photo credit: @alchemy.scentbar)
BFFs who love to craft have so many local options to choose from this Galentine’s Day. The Eclectic Chic Boutique is partnering with Alchemy Scent Bar for a customizable luxury candle and bath bomb workshop on February 13th. Enjoy local refreshments and mingling and tickets can be reserved here.
Read More: 24 Local Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas For Everyone On Your List
Explore a Historic Theater
(Photo credit: @theclairidge)
Montclair’s historic Clairidge Theater, which originally opened in 1922, is a must-do activity. Check out a new movie like Scream (2022) or a cult favorite like Rocky Horror Picture Show on Galentine’s weekend. Who doesn’t love some nostalgia on a night out?
DIY Doughnut Decorating
(Photo credit: @montclairbread)
There is something for every foodie friend group at Montclair Bread Co. from pastries, specialty bread, pizzas, and more. To create a special Galentine’s Day, order DIY Doughnut Decorating kits from the bakery for a fun group activity. Place orders from the website and choose from several different icings and toppings.
Customize a Charcuterie Board at Van Hook Cheese & Grocery
(Photo credit: @vanhookcheese)
Check out the artisan cheese shop Van Hook Cheese & Grocery in Montclair for a Valentine’s Day Decadence event on February 11th. Assemble the crew and enjoy an hour of guided cheese and chocolate pairings. Don’t forget to bring your favorite wine as the event is BYOB. Tickets can be purchased here.
Moss and More Terrarium Making Class
(Photo credit: @mossandmorellc)
Stop by Upper Montclair botanical boutique Moss and More to kick off your Galentine’s Day plans to design and build a special terrarium. Attendees will be guided through elements of design and can bring their own beverages. The terrarium will be created in a glass vase with a metal stand which makes it perfect for a custom gift.
See More: A Guide to Trivia + Game Nights in Essex County
Dinner Date in an Igloo
Galentine’s Day falls on a weekend this year which creates the ideal bar hopping opportunity. Whether it is a favorite sports bar like Egan & Sons or a popular cocktail locale like Faubourg, grab the squad to plan a fun night out. See the complete Winter dining guide for Essex County for more ideas, like unique outdoor dining setups.
Retail Therapy
(Photo credit: @sevensouthstudiomarket)
SevenSouth Studio + Market is a collaborative retail space that also hosts great floral arranging workshops. Head to its website for the latest updates on events. Take a look at our complete A to Z local business guide to check out boutiques to support in town and where to get Valentine’s and Galentine’s Day gifts.
Rock Climbing
(Photo credit: @gravityvaultmontclair)
The Gravity Vault, located in Montclair, is offering a Valentine’s Day Buy One Get One Free Day Pass special. Rock climb with your besties, learn something new, and make a day out of it. The facility also offers interactive, augmented reality wall climbing, which would be another fun activity. Check out the website for more information.
