February 14 may be for lovers, but Feb. 13 is for the ladies. Galentine’s Day is an opportunity for women to celebrate their female friendships and reminds us that they’re just as important as romantic relationships. The holiday, popularized on NBC’s Parks and Recreation, is usually celebrated over brunch, in true Leslie Knope style. But if you and your Galentines are looking for a different way to celebrate, MOVE’s got you covered.
Stressed out?
If the semester’s already getting the best of you and your friends, a yoga class is perfect for your Galentine’s celebration. Whether it’s taking advantage of your TigerX membership or checking out a different studio, yoga is a great way to relax and celebrate the women in your life. Drop in at alleyCat Yoga or Yoga Sol downtown or get your sweat on at Sumits Hot Yoga, which offers a 20% student discount. In general, classes range from $10 to $15.
Feeling fancy?
Described on its website as “your artistic outlet even if you can’t draw a straight line,” The Canvas on Broadway is the place to go if you’re looking for a sophisticated and social celebration. Access your artsy side as you’re guided through creating a painting, and maybe enjoy a glass of wine while you’re at it. You and your Galentines will love getting to catch up over this creative endeavor. Classes range from $20 to $35. Times and registration are listed online.
You have nothing to do with a painting?
Go to The Mud Room instead. Paint your own (pre-made) pottery while you chat and relax with your Galentines. Get creative with more than 80 glaze colors as well as stencils, stamps, writing bottles, texture tools and more. The selection of both decorative and functional pottery is always changing, so there’s always something new to find. According to The Mud Room’s website, a medium piece of pottery will cost $18 to $25 on average.
Want a twist on getting coffee?
If you and your ladies need a good coffee date, Papa’s Cat Cafe is the place to go to make it unique. The playroom, inspired by Ernest Hemingway’s home, is filled with more than 20 cats for you and your friends to love on. The cafe pairs with Boone County Animal Care to fill the room. All the cats are up for adoption, so prepare yourself to possibly leave with a new friend. The standard entry is $10 for an hour and includes a specialty drink.
If you and your girls just wanna have fun …
Have a blast enjoying karaoke at Eastside Tavern! Karaoke is every Thursday through Saturday starting at 8 p.m. Celebrate Galentine’s by performing girl-power classics with your girls, or just enjoy watching others dancing and singing along to some of music’s greatest hits. Keep an eye out for Johnny Hurricane, a regular who’s become an icon of the Eastside Karaoke scene. There’s no cover fee, so this option can be a budget-friendly night out.
Want to feel strong?
Empower your friend group by celebrating Galentine’s Day at COMO Axe Attack. Feel badass as you throw axes and remember that you’re powerful and self-sufficient. Have a competition to see who has the best aim. In addition to axes, you can upgrade your experience to include throwing knives, ninja stars or cards. The experience lasts an hour and a half. You can share a lane for $25 per person, or rent a private lane for $125 and up to 6 people.
Always looking for new music?
Go to a Sofar show. Sofar shows introduce you to new artists and genres by providing an evening of entertainment by three secret artists. That’s right, the performers aren’t revealed to ticket holders until the event starts. The shows are organized at varying locations, usually revealed 24 to 36 hours before the event starts. The mystery provides a unique concert experience and is a great way to discover new local artists. The next Sofar Show in Columbia is Feb. 15. Tickets are $20, available for purchase on the Sofar Sounds app.
_Edited by Sophie Stephens | sstephens@themaneater.com_