Whether you’re on for brunch and bubbles, a sophisticated afternoon tea, or a fun art party, we’ve got an activity to suit every group
It’s not exactly the opposite of Valentine’s Day but Galentine’s Day (13 Feb) is a way of showing that all the love in your life – including the love you have for your closest friends – is worth celebrating.
It was originally coined by the character of Leslie Knope in the hit TV show Parks and Recreation and quickly became a cultural movement where women – especially those not in relationships – claimed the day before Valentine’s Day to spend time with the women in their lives.
It’s now a well-known day of celebration – here are a few fun ways to mark the occasion in Ireland:
The River Lee Hotel, Cork city: ‘Galentine’s Brunch’

If romance isn’t front and centre in your life right now, why not celebrate your friendships instead with a Galentine’s Day brunch at The River Lee Hotel?
Held in the glamorous Mirror Room on Saturday, 15 February from 1.30pm, it promises to be a feel-good feast in a sparkling setting. With a complimentary welcome drink, there will also be a live DJ spinning upbeat tunes, creating the perfect soundtrack for a girls’ day out.
Click here for more information and to book your tickets.
The Westbury, Dublin: Champagne Afternoon Tea

Sometimes you just need to spend an elegant afternoon, sipping champagne and putting the world to rights with your best friends. And there’s no better place to do that than over a few glasses of champagne and delicious bites at the Westbury Hotel.
While not necessarily Galentine’s-themed, it’s a lovely option as it’s served Monday-Sunday between 10am-5pm so it’s easier to find a time that suits all of you. Watch the hustle and bustle of Grafton Street below as you sample an enticing selection of sandwiches, scones, and divine homemade pastries. Bliss.
Click here for more information.
Ballygarry Estate Hotel & Spa, Co Kerry: ‘Brunch & Bubbles’

What could be better than rounding up your galpals for an afternoon of great food, delicious beverages and plenty of dancing? Ballygarry Estate Hotel & Spa is hosting such an event, featuring a delicious brunch, free-flow Prosecco, and entertainment by the talented DJ Paudie Walsh.
Taking place in the award-winning Restaurant 58 between 2pm-4pm on Saturday, 15 February, it promises to be a day to remember for everyone! See ballygarry.com for more information.
Limerick Strand Hotel: ‘Bridget Jones-Inspired Bottomless Brunch’

For a real Galantine’s adventure, why not book a Bridget Jones-inspired Bottomless Brunch at The River Bar and Restaurant at the Limerick Strand Hotel? Taking place on Sunday 16 February from 1–4 pm, the DJ will be spinning belting tunes from the films, including All By Myself, It’s Raining Men, and more while you sing along in true Bridget style.
The brunch menu features such tasty bites plus delicious mains and choice of dessert with tea or coffee. It is available to book (residents and non-residents) from 1–4 pm and includes bottomless prosecco top-ups for €50 per person. The mixologists are also working on a Mr Darcy cocktail special to purchase on the day priced at €12. To make a reservation, call 061 421800 or email hello@strandlimerick.ie.
Galentine’s Day Drink and Draw – Gen Bar, Smithfield, Dublin city

For something totally different, why not get creative and bring home a memento from your night out with the girls? Taking place on 13 February at Gen Bar in Smithfield, Dublin, it’s essentially a high energy art party where you get to create your own masterpiece with no experience necessary. The art instructor will guide you through the process with cheesy music and wacky prizes throughout. Click here for tickets.
Always drink responsibly