It was Leslie Knope who created the concept of a girl’s day of fun with the February 13 Galentine’s Day from the popular Parks and Recreation TV series on NBC-TV. The power that one fictional character can have is incredible.
The fictional world often gives more power to women than the real world. But, I guess, we were lucky to have Ruth Bader Ginsburg. We have Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Rhianna, and a long list of celebrated women musicians, actors, and entrepreneurs.
Celebrating women is important to me, and it’s local events such as Boss Babes at Wyckwood House, Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce’s International Women of Influence luncheons, and Women of Aurora Network Luncheons that help keep us connected and celebrated.
But’s Galentine’s Day is different. It’s that one day a year that women can treat themselves just because it’s a day in February. Women have taken ownership of February 13.
With Galentine’s Day, Valentine’s Day has more flexibility and is no longer just a couples holiday. Valentine’s Day can be celebrated solo or with friends, too. A solo movie marathon is fun, however there are lots of options to soak in special treatment.
There will be two Galentine’s brunch events the weekend leading up to the big day in downtown Aurora. February 10, both Altiro Latin Fusion and Wyckwood House will be host to brunches.
I always love treating myself at Wyckwood House, 80 S. River Street, with new clothes, a yummy cocktail, or mocktail, and trendy accessories. I just bought an adorable heart-shaped necklace that will be perfect to wear on Galentine’s Day.
The Venue in downtown Aurora will feature two live concerts for the post-holiday weekend. Gerald McClendon’s Valentine’s Dance Party will welcome couples and singletons to the dance floor Friday, Feb. 16. February 17, The Red Roses will present An Evening of Radiohead on The Venue stage in Aurora. Fans of the electronic pop group will want to treat themselves to this night out and perhaps combine it with a drink at French 75 Gallery and Lounge.
It’s great to have a reason to celebrate, and we are lucky to be able to give ourselves the gift of celebration. Tag me on Instagram with how you celebrate on Galentine’s Day, or Valentine’s Day, or both.
Here’s a list of upcoming, local events that will be exciting.
•February 2, First Fridays throughout downtown Aurora: Participating locations include The Venue with Downtown Charlie Brown Blues Band; Wyckwood House; The Cotton Seed Creative; Yellow Bird Books; and more.
•February 9, Brother John Kattke and his Big Bad Mardi Gras Band at The Venue, Aurora.
•February 10, Galentine’s Brunch at Wyckwood House, Aurora.
•February 15, Boss Babes from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Wyckwood House, Aurora.
•February 15, Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World screens at 7 p.m. at Aurora Regional Fire Museum, with Aurora Film Society host.
Marissa Amoni is the owner of Marissa Bright, a public relations and event management company specializing in shining the light on nonprofits and small businesses. Follow her on Instagram @marissashinesbright.