No date, no problem! Embrace the spirit of friendship and celebrate Galentine’s Day in style this year.
Long before Galentine’s Day, women understood the importance of celebrating their friendships, especially when facing a single Valentine's Day. But when the beloved sitcom Parks and Recreation introduced Galentine’s Day in 2010, it offered a special day (February 13) to celebrate this powerful bond officially.
So, what better way to honour your female posse and the joy of friendship than with a Toronto Galentine’s Day filled with a delicious brunch, spa treatments and a delightful wine tasting?
Enjoy brunch with the ladies
When you meet for brunch in Toronto, you’ll experience the ultimate in cuisine and conversation with your favourite women.
Mildred’s Temple Kitchen in Liberty Village is a must-visit for its famous fluffy pancakes, which you’ll want to pair with coffee or tea.
Looking for something that offers plant-based cuisine? Check out Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar. The moment you enter, you’re greeted with lively greenery, setting the tone for a delicious and healthy meal. From “beyond” meat creations to diverse vegan dishes, everything is a visual and culinary delight. Those are just a couple of the many brunch options in Toronto.
Also see: 9 Unique Toronto Brunch Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
Unwind & connect on a coffee date
For the perfect morning or afternoon hangout spot, meet your favourite girls at a local coffee shop, like Hailed Coffee. Here, you'll find the smoothest, highest-quality Arabic coffee around. From the moment you step through the door, you’ll be greeted by the warming spices of cloves, cardamom and saffron that give their coffee that undeniably recognizable Middle Eastern flavour.
Another cosy café option, of which there are many, is Moonbean Coffee, a Kensington Market fixture of 30 years. Praised for its standout beverages like the Forest Whisperer Coffee and the Jasmine Matcha Latte, Moonbean’s the quintessential spot for a Galentine’s meetup.
Pamper your group at one of the best spas in Toronto
Galentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in a luxury spa experience in Toronto with your gal pals.
Sweetgrass Spa is a perfect option to pamper your group with massages, facials and more. With nine treatment rooms, including a spa lounge, an ozonated pool, an infrared sauna and a manicure and pedicure salon, this spacious spa is the icing on your day of celebration.
The Spa at the Old Mill has different package options from Countess for a Day to Queen for a Day, with relaxing treatments of a Classical English Facial to a Soufflé Wrap, each lasting a blissful hour.
Spa myBlend in The Ritz-Carlton Toronto is without question in the top tier of hotel spas. It’s 23,000 square feet of pure luxury with comfy chairs, relaxing music and scrumptious snacks. Take advantage of any of their amazing features, including its aroma-infused vitality pool, champagne nail bar or eucalyptus steam room.
Keep an eye out on the websites of these spas as we approach Galentine’s Day, as they often offer special friends’ packages perfect for your celebration.
Also see: 6 Top Toronto Spas for Last-Minute Spontaneous Pampering
Sip & make memories at a wine-tasting
Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newbie, Toronto provides a vibrant wine-tasting scene perfect for your Galentine's Day celebration.
Cibo Wine Bar boasts a diverse selection of local and international wines, catering to every palate. Whether you prefer bold reds, crisp whites, or sparkling delights, Cibo has something for you. Enjoy the charming atmosphere and indulge in its delicious authentic Italian cuisine.
Nestled within the Art Gallery of Ontario, the AGO Bistro offers a curated selection of Ontario wines. Sip on sparkling wines, chardonnays, pinots and other regional favourites, each perfectly paired with its exquisite menu.
For the ultimate wine-loving gal gang, embark on a day trip to Niagara Wine Country. Choose from over 28 wineries, each offering unique experiences and varieties. Popular options include Vineland Estates, Trius Winery, Inniskillin, and Peller Estates, while smaller, artisanal wineries like Rosewood Estates and Hidden Bench offer a more intimate setting.
Cocktails, couture & charms
Shake things up at one of the three Cocktail Emporium locations for a memorable Galentine’s Day night. With a diverse selection of classic and modern cocktails, a vibrant atmosphere, and friendly service, you’re in for a treat.
Head out to Ossington and shop at the neighbourhood boutiques, including I Miss You Vintage Inc., your one-stop shop for luxury designer resale and vintage couture. That’s just one of the many shopping opportunities in Toronto.
Lastly, want to cement your friendship with your besties? Then be sure to visit Spark Studio on University Avenue, where you can each get the ultimate permanent welded friendship bracelets in gold or sterling silver chains.
Also see: Toasty Treats: Where to Find the Best Warm Cocktails in Toronto This Season
Honour & celebrate the women in your life
Honouring and celebrating the incredible women in our lives is the essence of Galentine's Day. Whether you choose a night of cocktails, a spa day or a brunch date, Toronto offers plenty of fun activities for the entire gang.