Let’s hear it for the girls: where to celebrate Galentine's Day in LA

"Galentine's Day" was first introduced to us in 2010 on the television series Parks and Recreation. Since then, it has become so deeply embedded in popular culture that I bet most of you didn’t know you should be thanking Leslie Knope for “only the best day of the year.”

Well, there has never been a better time than now to focus on the love for the ladies in your life. Although really, it's a day about celebrating those you can always count on, no matter the gender.

Read on for ideas on how to celebrate Galentine's Day in Los Angeles, which traditionally falls on Feb. 13, (but this year is beginning as early as Feb. 5). 

Rooftop cinema screening

NBC's Parks and Rec, the series which created Galentine's Day

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Courtesy NBC

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Dig into the real story behind Galentine’s Day at Rootop Cinema Club in DTLA on Thursday, Feb. 5. It’s an entire mini-marathon of Parks and Recreation, the show that started it all. Tickets begin at $35 per person and include a love seat with fireside heater and a hot chocolate for you and your bestie. As the website says, "Valentine’s Day is for lovers — but Galentine’s Day? That’s for legends."

When and How: Reserve your tickets here for the 6:30 p.m. screening.

Galentine’s dinner under the stars

Oysters and champagne anyone? At Mother of Pearl in DTLA

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Michael Kleinberg

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Courtesy Mother of Pearl

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Set the stage for a night of pure fabulousness with a rooftop dinner at Mother of Pearl, the oyster and champagne bar from Michelin-starred Chef Joshua Gil. The four-course prix fixe begins with a caviar bruschetta and small plates for the table, which is a perfect time to order a round of mini tinis. Menu highlights include tuna ribbons with wild baby fennel and salsa verde, steak Diane with pommes puree, and a strawberry tiramisu to finish. Since Mother of Pearl is part of the multi-level nightclub and restaurant space Level 8 in Downtown Los Angeles, your night doesn’t need to end with dinner.

When and How: Reserve via OpenTable for Friday, Feb. 13, beginning at 5 p.m. 

Afternoon tea

Visit the iconic Culver Hotel in Culver City for a one-day-only Galentine’s Tea that will give you a reason to feel your best. The experience includes artisanal tea, finger sandwiches, and heart-shaped sweets along with bite-sized petit fours. Dress to impress as a festive ensemble will earn you a complimentary glass of pink bubbly. The entire tea time will be accompanied by live music.

When and How: Galentine’s tea is served from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15. Reserve on OpenTable. The cost is $75 per person.
 

Après Surf Lounge

You get your own personal firepit at Viceroy Santa Monica

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Courtesy Viceroy Santa Monica

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Gather up to six of your girls for a poolside cabana with everything you need for a fun celebration. A night out at the Après Surf Lounge at the Viceroy Santa Monica includes a curated cheese board, tabletop s’mores, and a bottle of something sparkling. There are also table topic cards and a build-your-own bouquet activity to keep things festive while you share laughs around your personal fire pit.

When and How: Galentine’s Day cabanas are available on Friday, Feb. 13, beginning at $230 for up to 6 guests. Reserve on their website.

Line Dancing with your Ladies

The Galentine's Day Bootloose event happens on Feb 13

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Courtesy Desert 5 Spot

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There’s nothing like line dancing to spark a night of liveliness between friends. On Friday, Feb. 13, Desert 5 Spot in Hollywood is hosting a Galentine’s Day Bootloose with free line dancing lessons led by Mike & Diana. They’re also extending Desert Hour drink specials until 9 p.m., which includes $6 beer and wine, $9 cocktails, and 2-for-one $10 tacos.

When and How: RSVP for your Friday, Feb. 13 bootloose on the hour beginning at 7 p.m. here. RSVPs aren’t necessary if you won’t be line dancing, but Galentine’s Day is not about putting baby in the corner. Let your inner cowgirl roam free!