Let’s be honest: Valentine’s Day can be a lot. Galentine’s Day, on the other hand? Effortless. Fun. Low pressure. Just good friends, great drinks, and plans that actually feel worth leaving the apartment for. And in DC, the options are endless — from martini bars to brunch reservations to themed nights in.

So if you’ve been wondering what all the fuss is about, or you’re simply looking for the best Galentine’s Day activities, party ideas, and cocktails around…here’s how to celebrate February 13th the best way we know how.

What Is Galentine’s Day, Anyway?

First things first: Galentine’s Day is basically Valentine’s Day’s cooler best friend. Think:

• Friendship > romance
• Champagne > pressure
• Low-stakes group plans > awkward prix-fixe dinners

Now let’s get into the festivities.

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Galentine’s Day Activities in DC

1. Dress Up for a Girls’ Night Out Dinner

DC is made for a fancy dinner moment. Here, it’s always a good idea to grab a reservation where the mood is set for celebration — bonus points if the lighting is good and the martinis are better.

Galentine’s Day dinner spots to consider:

• Le Diplomate (ever a classic)
• The Dabney (special-occasion worthy)
• St. Anselm (for the steak-and-cocktail crowd)
• Annabelle (chic, candlelit, perfect for a girls’ night out)

2. Do a Galentine’s Cocktail Crawl

If you’re searching for Galentine’s drinks or Galentine’s Day cocktails, DC more than delivers. Our advice? Turn the night into a mini crawl — one drink per stop.

Some perfect Galentine’s cocktail bars:

• Silver Lyan (creative yet elevated)
• The Mirror (hidden gem vibes)
• Service Bar (iconic for a reason)
• Mercy Me (fun, vibrant, and made for groups)

3. Book a Spa or Wellness Reset

Not every Galentine’s get-together needs to be loud. Sometimes the best celebration is unwinding side by side.

Some Galentine’s-friendly self-care ideas:

• Massage or facial day
• Sauna + cold plunge
• Group yoga + matcha after

Because nothing says friendship like suffering through a cold plunge side by side.

4. Plan a DC Galentine’s Brunch

Brunch is basically DC’s love language.

Make it Galentine’s-coded with:

• Bottomless mimosas
• Matching outfits (optional but encouraged)
• A dessert order “for the table”

Try spots like:

• Unconventional Diner
• Residents Café
• The Coupe (cozy and underrated)

Galentine’s Events Happening Around DC This Year

Want to skip planning from scratch? DC always has a lineup of ticketed Galentine’s events leading up to February 13.

Each year, keep an eye out for:

Galentine’s Cocktail Nights + Pop-Ups

Bars around the District often host themed Galentine’s evenings with specialty cocktails, photo ops, and group-friendly reservations.

Galentine’s Brunch Parties

Many restaurants offer prix-fixe brunch menus, champagne add-ons, and festive décor for the occasion.

Wine Tastings + Winery-In-The-City Events

Local favorites often run Galentine’s-themed nights with flights, bites, and pairing experiences.

Galentine’s Fitness Classes

Solidcore, barre studios, and DC workout spaces sometimes host “bring your bestie” classes with fun extras.

Candle-Making, Florals, and Craft Nights

DIY events are huge around Galentine’s — think bouquet-building workshops, creative candle pours, or charm jewelry nights.

Galentine’s Party Ideas

Want something more personal? Throwing a Galentine’s party is peak February energy. Here are some easy crowd-pleasers:

Do a Rom-Com Draft

Pick teams. Choose your lineup. Let the debate ensue.

Make It a Theme Party

Some classics:

• Pink pajamas only
• Cozy candlelit night
• Dress like your favorite pop diva
• Wine tasting

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Galentine’s Day Cocktails to Make at Home

Need signature Galentine’s drinks for the occasion? Keep it simple and cute:

The Pink Spritz

Prosecco + Aperol + splash of grapefruit

The Lychee Martini

Vodka + lychee juice + lime

The “DC Doll” Espresso Martini

Espresso + vodka + coffee liqueur. (Add heart-shaped ice cubes if you’re feeling ambitious.)

The Heart of Galentine’s in DC

DC can feel busy, intense, and always moving. Galentine’s Day is the perfect reminder to pause and celebrate the people who make your life feel lighter all year round.

Ready to Plan Your Galentine’s in DC?

If you’re looking for more February plans, don’t miss our full guide to Valentine’s Day in DC, featuring ideas for winter dates, cozy cocktails, and the best spots to celebrate all kinds of love.

Ready to find a home you love just as much as your friends? We’re always here to help you find the one. Give us a call today at 202.280.2060, email us at connect@jennsmira.com, or fill out the form on this page to get started!

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