Five Ways to do Galentine’s Day in Newport Beach

We don’t really need an excuse to hang out with our best gals, but there are certain days that call for planning something extra special. To be more specific, we’re talking about Galentine’s Day, which, thanks to Leslie Knope (Parks and Recreation fans, anyone?) became an official day for celebrating friendships between females. It typically falls on Feb. 13, a day ahead of Valentine’s Day, when everything from food packaging to storefronts turns rouge. If you’re looking to join in on the fun this year and need a little help by way of ideas, we’ve got your back (and your friends’). From a cooking class to a fabulous picnic, here are the many different ways you can celebrate Galentine’s Day in Newport Beach.

For the fitness enthusiasts

 This one’s a no-brainer if you and your friends share a mutual appreciation for fitness. Round up your besties for a group class at Newport Peach, a local fitness studio with a female focus. The schedule’s variety means you won’t have any trouble finding an experience that’ll help you break a sweat. There’s the signature full-body step class, which puts a spin on step aerobics and incorporates ballet work, mat pilates, cardio bursts and more. Love dancing and yoga? There’s Buti Yoga, which marries tribal dance and power yoga. But there’s also so much more. Not only will you have a blast with your squad, but you’ll also leave feeling accomplished and recharged.

For the picnickers

Skip a typical afternoon at the bar and schlepp over to Lido Marina Village for a picnic experience with yummy brunch bites and sips. (Because, really, what could be better than an al fresco eats at an idyllic setting with your entourage?) No need to worry about packing your checkered blanket and cooler. On Feb. 6, Lido Marina Village—in collaboration with The Picnic Collective—is hosting a styled (read: all prepped ahead for your convenience) Galentine’s Day Soiree complete with a floral braid bar, live music, and a DIY Valentine station. A ticket will only set you back $25, so hurry and reserve your spot.

For the fashionistas

It’s a fortunate thing if your friends love shopping as much as you do, because then you’ll get to tailor your Galentine’s Day around some superb retail destinations like Fashion Island. This fashion mecca is chock-full of every kind store you’ll need to quench your shopping—or, you know, just strolling-and-browsing—thirst. (Psstt, it’s called “retail therapy” for a reason). There are also plenty of delicious stops (think: cocktails enjoyed al fresco) along the way that’ll make the whole trip worth it. Pro tip: plan ahead and schedule facial laser treatment at Skin Laundry, which is lauded for its ability to whip acne-prone, dull skin back to shape.

For the spa trotters

We’re here to argue that couple’s massages shouldn’t be exclusive to romantic partners, and that best friends are also great candidates for a side-by-side pamper sesh. So, this Galentine’s Day, grab your BFF and head over to one of Newport Beach’s many luxe spas where you can indulge in a customized massage together in a private suite. The Spa at Pelican Hill, The Spa at Fashion Island Hotel, Pure Blu and Spa Gregorie’s all offer great ways to relax with your closest gal by your side. And if a rubdown isn’t your thing, you can still partake in many other indulgences like body wraps, facials and hair services. Go ahead, you deserve it.

For the foodies

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to make pasta from scratch, now’s your chance. Sur La Table’s classes are a fantastic way to take up some new cooking skills (or brush up on old ones), and they’re all the better enjoyed with the company of your friends. On Feb. 13, Sur La Table will play host to an Italian pasta workshop, where you’ll learn some basic techniques like rolling dough and cutting noodles. By the end of the class, you’ll walk out having added so many new recipes—egg ravioli with sage brown butter, pappardelle with bolognese and blood orange hazelnut fennel salad—to your kitchen repertoire. Buon Appetito!

Written By: Mariam Makatsaria