Leslie Knope of NBC's "Parks and Recreation" may just be a popular sitcom character, but her 2010 invention of Galentine's Day has turned Feb. 13 into an unofficial national gal pal holiday. The day before Valentine's Day is all about celebrating female friendships, through personalized gifts, heart-shaped waffle breakfasts or unique bonding activities. Want to get you and your friends into the Galentine's spirit? Check out these Twin Cities events.
1. Galentine's craft party
Try your hand at pottery throwing, painting, candlemaking and more at Studio 2 Ceramics' craft night. Drinks and snacks included. Just don't wear your Galentines' finest — crafters should expect to get dirty.
1717 NE. 2nd St., Mpls., studio2ceramics.com. $30
2. Cocktail class
Royal Foundry Craft Spirits' Minneapolis distillery creates craft cocktails in the British tradition using grains, botanicals and classic recipes. Tour the facility, learn the history of the martini and make two fun cocktails. Tips, tricks and a complimentary tasting glass are $55/person.
241 Fremont Av. N., Mpls. royalfoundrycraftspirits.com
3. Womxn's Climb Night
"All women, women-identifying trans, femme and nonbinary folks" are welcome at Arc'teryx Minneapolis and Minnesota Climbing Cooperative's Galentine's celebration. Open to new or experienced climbers, visitors can expect snacks, helpful tips and giveaways. Free; donations to support fellow womxn climbers welcomed.
1620 Central Av. NE., #178, Mpls. mnclimbingcoop.com
4. Red Hot Pole Dancing and Posies
This two-in-one event combines a beginner's pole dance routine with a fiery floral arrangement workshop by Knockout Bodies Pole Dance and Fitness Studio and local florist Simply Stated Elegance. All supplies and refreshments are included with the $125 ticket, but make sure you register by February 11.
