Galentine’s Day is Coming!
In what arguably might be the most fun “made up” holiday of the year, Galentine’s Day falls on February 13—the day before Valentine’s Day. Dedicated to celebrating friendships between women, some sources cite the TV show, “Parks and Recreation” for launching the idea of a day for “ladies to celebrate ladies.”
Whatever the genesis of the day, we’ve got some ideas to take you beyond mani-pedis to ensure the time with your besties fits their personality. After all, Arvada is filled to the brim with fun things to buy, but there’s no better gift than the time you share!
The Fashionista
Is there a fashion standout among your friends? You know the one; the woman who loves browsing sales and finding that perfect ensemble to reflect her playful, unique style? Make a day of it shopping these Arvada stores for that perfect piece of her wardrobe puzzle!
Independently owned and operated, Apricot Lane Boutique has everything you need to create that perfect look for any occasion—from comfy and casual to that perfect dress for a night on the town.
Family owned for over 30 years, High Country Western Wear has a large selection of western, dress and casual boots, as well as western clothing and accessories for the entire family.
Specializing in quality clothing that fits real people, along with locally made jewelry and clothing, Carly’s Boutique is located at the Eli Ashby Healing Arts Center.
4. Olde Town Exchange Consignment
This upscale consignment boutique carries seasonal women’s clothing, jewelry, bags/purses, shoes/boots, accessories and collectibles—including designer brands!
Electric and eclectic, browse the stores shelves for vintage clothing, jewelry, accessories, candles, aromatics, art, vinyl and more!
6. Vouna
Even the most fashion-conscious will fall in love with Vouna’s unique and beautiful clothing and accessories.
The Adventurer
Everyone has a friend who’s always eager to try something new! “The Adventurer” is the first to suggest something out-of-the ordinary for Saturday night or share tales of their last adventure over a game of darts or on that last-minute road trip they put together. Treat them to a day (or night) of escapades at any of these unique locales.
1. FlannelJax’s
If she’s not a pro already, a few trips to this premier axe-throwing destination will make your adventurous friend an “ax-pert” in no time!
Take your gal pal out for a night of pinball at the new arcade in Candelas, complete with snacks, coffee, craft beer, cider or wine.
Tell your friend to dress for the gym but surprise her with a detour to play archery dodgeball with foam-tipped arrows.
Race against time to complete the riddles, cryptography and puzzles in this challenging, immersive experience to escape the room.
5. Sky Zone
Get your blood pumping as you bounce, climb, flip and compete in this trampoline park for all ages.
It is so easy to play golf year-round with the simulator at West Woods. Come for the golf and and stay for the amazing food (and views!) in their beautiful Bar & Grill (be sure to try the fresh made guacomole).
The Crafty Friend
If it can be made by hand, she’ll create it herself! From jewelry and brownies to pottery and holidays cards, that crafty friend is all about finding inspiration in the process itself. Show her that you love the genius of her artistry and the way her generosity includes giving something from the heart by taking her to any of these Arvada stops.
Shop for loose gemstones to create your own pieces at home or sign up for one of the on-site-jewelry classes.
2. Crystal Joys
From handmade jewelry and healing crystals to home décor products and loose gemstones and minerals, you’ll find a one-of-a-kind treasure at Crystal Joys.
Explore your creative side with a photography, ceramics, dance or painting class that you can take together at the Arvada Center for the Arts.
Choose a piece of pottery to paint and then swing by a week later to pick up the glazed and fired piece for a memory of your night of fun.
Schedule a paint-and-sip session or browse the gallery to purchase a piece by other local artists.
6. Bella Bistro Culinary Studio
Sign up for a private cooking class with your friends to learn how to make a variety of delicious meals at home.
The Social Butterfly
She’s the first to suggest karaoke. Her hearty laugh steals the show at comedy open mic nights. She’ll dance like no one’s watching if there’s live music. Her vivacious energy will have everyone asking to be her partner in that cocktail-making class. She’s that social butterfly that simply loves making friends and Arvada has plenty of lively establishments that will nurture her joie de vivre!
1. Lady Nomada
If your perfect night consists of great Mexican food, delicious margaritas, a hip atmosphere and a choice of indoor or outdoor dining (sometimes with live music!), Lady Nomada can check all your boxes.
2. Talnua
Sign up for a class to master the art of craft cocktails or schedule a tasting and tour then hang out in the cozy cocktail lounge at America’s first single pot still distillery.
Established in 1933, Arvada’s longest-standing bar offers classic fine food, vintage cocktails and 10 select Colorado fresh-brewed beers in a fun and upbeat environment.
With locations in Olde Town and Candelas, The Bluegrass Lounge is a coffee house by day and Bourbon bar by night with a mix of karaoke and plenty of live music.
Dedicated to pioneers of Rock & Roll like Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley, this full bar and restaurant hosts free entertainment most nights of the week.
Besides being an oasis for beer-lovers, pinball wizards, skee-Ballers and dog, SomePlace Else Brewery has regular Trivia Nights!
The Foodie
When you’re looking for the freshest sushi, the best burger or the widest variety of vegan in town, she’s who you call. It’s not necessarily that she’s traveled the world to sample Michelin-star meals; she just knows and appreciates great food. In Arvada, the trick will be choosing from among the many exceptional establishments!
1. Yak and Yeti
Featuring fine Nepalese and Indian food and handcrafted beer made on site, even the most polished palate will be impressed by this menu, cuisine and service. (Some even say they have the best Chicken Tikka Misala around!
2. The Butchery
Treat your friend to this classic steakhouse that serves only the finest USDA prime meats and freshest seafood, as well as an assortment of cocktails and wines.
3. Namiko’s
With large, fresh and affordable sushi (as well as other traditional Japanese fare), Namiko’s was voted Best Sushi on Denver’s A-List for multiple years.
4. So Radish
You don’t need to be vegan to fall in love with the satisfying vegan menu (including vegan wine and gluten-free beer and cider) at So Radish!
5. Lot One
You won’t get fresher American fare than from a restaurant that grows its own produce in a rooftop greenhouse as part of its commitment to ethical and environmentally friendly sourcing!
With multigenerational recipes for delicious Italian food, as well as locally sourced sausage and a wide selection of wines, nothing warms your night like a hearty Italian meal.
The Nurturer
We all have a friend who spends her energy ensuring everyone else is taken care of. She’s constantly busy and rarely complains yet can’t see to make time for self-care. Because she’s selfless, she won’t ask for help, but Galentine’s Day provides the perfect excuse to treat her to some pampering, down-time, and maybe even a little fun!
1. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa
Treat your friend to a Swedish, hot stone or Himalayan salt stone massage with optional upgrades that include an aromatherapy scalp massage or a hot-towel hand and foot massage.
Treat your friend to a menu of offerings for physical, spiritual and mental health, including Reiki, intuitive readings, crystal healing, craniosacral therapy and more!
3. Bare Necessities Floating and Massage
Float alone or with a friend in the state-of-the-art Deluxe Quest Suite that includes customizable lighting and audio for the ultimate floating experience.
4. Book Cranny
Sink into the cozy quiet of a comfy chair and escape into a good read in this beloved Arvada bookstore.
5. Hilton Garden Inn Arvada Denver
Book a night away from stressors to order room service, swim or enjoy a meal and adult beverage in the Garden Grill and Bar.