Love is in the air, Lakeland. Valentine’s Day is coming up on Friday, Feb. 14, but the holiday isn’t just for lovers anymore. Galentine’s Day — a celebration of friendship typically celebrated on Feb. 13 each year — has been on the rise since the notorious “Parks & Recreation” episode aired in 2010.
No matter how you’re looking to celebrate, check out our top 10 picks for events to attend, from painting parties to divine dinners.
Memory-worthy meals
Galentine’s Brunch at Smith’s American Tavern
Gather your pals to enjoy a special menu + shop from local vendors on the patio of this downtown staple on Saturday, Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at Eala’s Speakeasy
Reserve your spot for this five-course wine pairing dinner at the speakeasy below Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar on Valentine’s Day from 6 to 10 p.m. Each $150 ticket also includes passed h’ors doeuvres, live music, and a post-dinner social hour.
What’s more romantic than a concert lit only by candlelight?
Screenshot via @gmpatton
Dazzling dances + concerts
Love Scape Dinner & Dance
Don your best cocktail attire and indulge in a night of live music, dancing, and a buffet dinner + desserts from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Black Swan Venue on Friday, Feb. 14. Tickets are $80 per couple, and sales end one week prior on Friday, Feb. 7.
A Proper Valentine’s Day
Local cover band Proper Wednesday will take the stage at Union Hall on Valentine’s Day at 8:30 p.m. to serenade you with the hits from the 1960s to today. Tickets are $10.
Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special
Prefer to keep it classical? This concert on Valentine’s Day at 8:45 p.m. will feature a string quartet playing romantic music by candlelight at the Lake Mirror Auditorium. Tickets start at $34.
After exchanging gifts at the Favorite Things Party, make sure to grab a pic in front of Sabrina’s iconic flower wall — it’s the perfect spot for a Galentine’s photo shoot.
Photo by @sabrinasdelicacies
Classes, date nights + parties
Galentine’s Day Favorite Things Party
Bring two gifts worth $20 each to exchange at this party hosted by Lakeland Girls Who Walk. RSVP to join the fun on Thursday, Feb. 13 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Sabrina’s Delicacies.
Date Night Challenge: Paint Your Partner
Book a spot for you and a plus one at the Valentine’s Day edition of this trendy class to see who can paint each other best. Brush up on your skills before the 6 p.m. event at Art Centric Studio on Friday, Feb. 14 — each pair of tickets is $50.
Valentine Night Market
“Come and get your love” at this festive downtown market with 150+ food vendors, makers, and more on Saturday, Feb. 15 from 5 to 9 p.m.
For the younger crowd
Kids Night Out
While the parents go out on the town (or stay home in the peace and quiet), children can spend the evening playing + crafting together at Little Lake Play on Valentine’s Day from 5:30 to 10 p.m.
No Broken Hearts Teen Valentine’s Ball
Teens are invited to get dressed in their ballroom best and learn organized dances at 1833 Historic Venue on Friday, Feb. 14 from 8 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $20, and each guest will also receive a free book.