The Kentucky Derby race itself might famously take just two minutes, but the occasion — on the first Saturday in May — warrants an afternoon-long celebration of food and drink. Kick things off with a Mint Julep (which boasts a more complex history than what you might expect) or a Vodka Rose Punch that's garnished perfectly for the Run for the Roses while you snack on Spiced Pecans and Deviled Eggs with Country Ham . And don't forget about Pimiento Cheese—we have a classic recipe, a Vegan Pimiento Cheese , and even a recipe for Oysters Rockefeller with Pimiento Cheese for you to serve. And your Derby party won't be complete without some Southern Fried Chicken or Kentucky Hot Brown Mac and Cheese . Chocolate Pecan Pie with Bourbon (aka Derby Pie) is the traditional dessert for the day, but a Red Velvet Cake will have its own fans. Or maybe some Bacon-Bourbon Brownies are in order? Read on for even more of our favorite recipes to enjoy
February 14 may be a day for celebrating your sweetie, but before Valentine's Day comes Galentine's Day, which is all about loving on your friends. Made famous by Amy Poehler's Parks and Recreation character Leslie Knope, Galentine's Day takes place on February 13 each year, and it's a holiday for recognizing the bond you share with your closest gal pals. There's no wrong way to celebrate your most treasured friendships, of course, but if you're in need of some Galentine's Day party ideas for this year, then we've got suggestions that would definitely get Leslie Knope's stamp of approval.
Related Post: How to Throw Galentines Day Party?
You don't need to be single to participate in Galentine's Day. You don't even need to have a huge pack of girlfriends with whom to celebrate. But if you're looking for a way to make your favorite ladies feel special on Valentine's Day Eve, then throwing a fun Galentine's Day party is always a good idea. From invites to decorations to party activities, we've rounded up all the elements you need to throw a rockin' event for your Galentines, whether you want to go all out with your party or just want a couple of ideas for an intimate gathering.
1. Send out themed invitations.
Rather than simply texting your crew, send out pretty Galentine's Day invitations in advance, either via email or through the mail if you have enough time.
2. Assemble cute goodie bags.
Galentine's Day Favor Bag
Get some personalized goodie bags made for your guests, which you can then fill with candy, nail polish, scrunchies, mini candles, or other small party favors.
3. Set a dress code.
Ribbed Jersey Danube Skirt
Whether you decide to go chic and classy or casual and cool, let your guests know ahead of time what they should wear (and if there any colors they should prioritize) so that everyone is on the same page.
4. Serve heart-shaped appetizers.
GET THE PEPPERONI PIZZA DIP RECIPE
When it comes to your Galentine's or Valentine's Day menu, you don't necessarily need to serve heart-shaped food, but this Pepperoni Pizza Dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
5. Make festive drinks.
GET THE POMEGRANATE ROYALE RECIPE
Keep it simple with a signature pink or red Valentine's Day cocktail, like this pretty Pomegranate Royale, which only requires a few ingredients to make:
- 5 pomegranate seeds
- 1 oz. pomegranate liqueur
- 4 oz. Champagne, prosecco, cava, or any dry sparkling wine
To make, simply add pomegranate seeds to a champagne flute, add liqueur, then pour in sparkling wine.
6. Whip up Galentine's Day treats.
From cakes and cupcakes to cookies, there are so many fun Valentine's Day desserts you can make for your guests (though any sweet treat is sure to please!).
7. Invest in a fun game.
For The Girls Party Game
Sure, you can always make up your own games to play, but investing in a hilarious adult party game will save you from having to prep ahead of time.
8. Sing karaoke.
With a few karaoke microphones and a YouTube video with lyrics, you can transform your space into your own personal karaoke bar where your friends can belt out their favorite love songs.
9. Go big with red-and-pink decor.
Galentine Balloon Garland
Valentine's Day Balloon Backdrop
Conversation Heart Banner
If you're pressed for time, then skip the DIY Valentine's Day decorations and invest in some cute heart-shaped balloons and banners to jazz up your place.
10. Create a DIY photo booth.
Galentine's Day Party Photo Booth Prop Kit
Do you have blank wall space? Use streamers or banners to create a fun backdrop, and then lay out photo booth props to create the perfect photo op for friends.
11. Order flowers.
The Verona
You can't celebrate Valentine's Day without some beautiful blooms. Impress your pals with a gorgeous pink-and-red floral arrangement, which can also serve as the perfect centerpiece.
12. Put together a mani/pedi station.
ILNP Paige Berry Pink Holographic Polish
Olive & June XOXO Nail Polish
Essie Bordeaux Nail Polish
Grab some red and pink polishes and set them up on a table with cotton swabs, nail polish remover, files, cuticle oil, and anything else your guests might need to give themselves salon-quality manis and pedis.
13. Host a wine tasting.
Get a few girly bottles of vino (or have your guests each bring a bottle of their choice), and then let everyone sip and sample to determine their favorite.
14. Pass out Galentines.
Galentine's Day Mini Printable Cards
Throw it back to elementary school by having everyone bring mini Valentine's Day cards for all the other guests, which you can all personalize and pass out for everyone to take home.
15. Have a rom-com marathon.
Whether you all sit down to watch a movie together or just have it playing in the background, there are tons of great Valentine's Day movies out there that'll make you swoon.
16. Make a girl power playlist.
JBL Go 3 Portable Speaker with Bluetooth
Keep everyone dancing with a playlist that's full of empowering pop hits from artists like Lizzo, the Spice Girls, Beyoncé, and Kelly Clarkson.
17. Provide face masks.
Rosé Resurfacing Facial Mask
Get your girls glowing with a moisturizing face mask treatment, like this sparkling at-home facial formula from Soko Glam.
18. Arrange a Secret Cupid swap.
Good Vibes Only Soy Candle
Gold Cuff Huggie Heart Earrings
Pat McGrath Labs Major Mini Lip Trios
UGG Leda Cozy Socks
Just like Secret Santa, you can assign each of your guests a gift recipient ahead of time, then set a budget and have everyone bring a small Galentine's Day gift to exchange.
19. String up a heart-shaped piñata.
Heart Piñata
Everyone will have a blast taking a whack at a Valentine's Day piñata filled with chocolates (but make sure you keep anything breakable far away).
20. Create a Galentine's Day tablescape.
XOXO Red Paper Table Runner
If you plan on serving a sit-down brunch or dinner, then an adorable Galentine's Day tablescape is a must.
21. Make it a pajama party.
Pink Crawfish Pajama Shirt and Pants
Fuzzy Sweater PJ Set
Kitty in Paris Boyfriend Pajamas
Is comfort your top priority? Ditch the fancy sweaters and jeans and have your friends all wear their cutest pajamas instead, complete with slippers and bathrobes.
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