Celebrate with Community: Galentine’s & Palentine’s Activities

Valentine’s Day may traditionally be for couples, but Galentine’s / Palentine’s are all about celebrating friendship and the people who make your life better. If you’re hosting a dinner party to honor your favorite gals and pals, why not go beyond great food and set the tone with meaningful and fun activities?

Here are some creative ideas to make your gathering unforgettable:

DIY Friendship Bracelets, Wine Charms, or Key Chains

Set up a crafting station where guests can be crafty! Provide materials like embroidery floss, beads, and charms. Include an instruction card or invite a crafty friend to guide the group. Not only is this a nostalgic throwback, but everyone also gets to take home a personalized keepsake.

Memory Sharing Jar

Before dinner begins, have everyone write down a favorite memory with the group or the host. Place the notes in a decorated jar, then read them aloud after dinner. This activity is one of my favorites to re-live shared mems!

Love Letter Exchange

Encourage guests to write short, positive notes or “love letters” to each attendee. Set up a mailbox station with envelopes and pens, and have each guest deliver their notes to the “mailbox” for their friends. Think of this as the grown-up version of valentines cards that you used to exchange in kindergarten :)

Charcuterie Board Contest

Turn your dinner party into a creative competition with a charcuterie board challenge. Divide guests into teams and provide ingredients like cheese, fruit, crackers, and spreads. The host can act as a judge, or let the group vote for their favorite design. OR have everyone bring one from home (and tell them to be creative with their own themes -- ex: chips and dips charcuterie, candy charcuterie, etc.)

Paint-and-Sip Night Bring out your guests’ artistic side with a paint-and-sip activity. Provide mini canvases, glasses, candles, or tote bags, paint, and brushes. Offer simple prompts like “paint your happy place” or “design a Valentine’s Day card.” It’s a great way to spark creativity and conversation.

Themed Trivia Game

Create a trivia game based on your friendships, pop culture, or a shared interest. This can be as simple as writing questions about memorable trips, funny inside jokes, or favorite TV shows. Award small prizes for winners to add a playful competitive edge.

Custom Cocktail Creations

Set up a DIY cocktail or mocktail station with mixers, garnishes, and recipe cards. Invite guests to create and name their own signature drink that represents their personality (or the past year of their life!). Bonus points for a themed menu with names inspired by inside jokes or favorite memories.

Group Polaroid Session

Capture the evening with a Polaroid or instant camera station. Provide props like heart-shaped sunglasses, feather boas, or themed signage. Encourage everyone to leave a photo in a scrapbook with a note to the host or group.

Cozy Movie Corner If your party is more laid-back, set up a “cozy movie corner” with throw blankets, pillows, and a projector. Choose a favorite rom-com or a feel-good friendship movie and let your guests relax and unwind post-dinner.

Dessert Decorating Bar Who doesn’t love dessert? Create a decorating bar with cookies, cupcakes, or mini cakes, along with frosting, sprinkles, and edible decorations. This sweet activity is sure to bring out everyone’s inner pastry chef.

Valentine's Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate love in all its forms. Remember, the best part of the evening isn’t the activities or the food—it’s the joy of gathering together with the people who matter most.

P.S.

DECOR IDEAS!!!!!