Galentine's Day 2026 in greater Milwaukee

Galentine's Day 2026 falls on Friday, February 13th, giving you and your best girlfriends the perfect excuse to celebrate friendship before Valentine's Day weekend takes over. Whether your squad craves a luxurious spa day, craft cocktails at a trendy bar, hands-on creative workshops, or an epic shopping adventure, the greater Milwaukee area delivers an impressive lineup of events and experiences. This guide covers everything from intimate Third Ward wine bars to charming Cedarburg boutiques, ensuring you'll find the perfect way to honor your favorite ladies.

The good news? Many venues have already announced their 2026 Galentine's specials, and February's timing on a Friday means the celebration can easily extend into a full weekend affair. Book early—these events fill fast.

Dedicated Galentine's dinners and restaurant events

Several Milwaukee-area restaurants are hosting special Galentine's-themed dinners that go beyond standard Valentine's fare, focusing on the friendship celebration that Leslie Knope made famous.

Onesto Italian hosts a four-course Galentine's feast

Onesto Italian in the Historic Third Ward offers one of the area's most anticipated dedicated Galentine's dinners.

• Address: 221 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI

• Phone: (414) 308-1600

• Website: onestomke.com

• Event: Four-course Galentine's Dinner

• Date: Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 6:30 PM

• Details: The evening features handmade pasta, sparkling cocktails, and Italian favorites designed for sharing with your favorite people

• Reservations: Book through OpenTable

The intimate Third Ward setting with exposed brick and warm lighting creates the ideal atmosphere for girlfriend gatherings. Come hungry—portions are generous and meant for lingering conversation.

RAYNE IX brings professional women together

For girlfriends who want networking with their celebration, the 7th Annual Galentine's Day Soirée by RAYNE IX combines empowerment with entertainment.

• Address: South Second (A Saz's Hospitality Group Venue), 838 South 2nd Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204

• Website: eventbrite.com/e/2026-galentines-day-soiree-tickets-1743632073469

• Date: Thursday, February 12, 2026, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Cost: FREE

• Includes: Refreshments, desserts, bubbly beverages, 45-minute panel discussion, networking opportunities

This year marks RAYNE IX's 5-year anniversary, and they're partnering with the Women's Fund of Greater Milwaukee. The theme—"The R.E.A.L. Confidence™ Paradox"—features panelists including State Representative Francesca Hong and local business leaders discussing imposter syndrome and fearless leadership. Expect 100-150 professional women in attendance. Casual dress encouraged.

Fine dining options with Valentine's menus starting February 13th

Several upscale Milwaukee restaurants extend their Valentine's menus to Galentine's Day, making Friday the 13th surprisingly romantic for friend groups.

Ash Hearth & Bar at The Iron Horse Hotel delivers a dramatic nine-course experience:

• Address: 500 W. Florida St., Milwaukee

• Website: theironhorsehotel.com

• Price: $79 per person

• Available: February 13-15, 2026

• Menu highlights: Beetroot tapioca crisp, foie gras, seared scallop with wagyu short rib, flourless chocolate cake finale

• Hours: 5-10 PM

• Reservations: OpenTable

The Melting Pot in Brookfield offers interactive fondue dining ideal for groups:

• Address: 19850 W. Bluemound Rd., Brookfield, WI

• Website: meltingpot.com/brookfield-wi

• Price: $99 per person (includes two $25 gift certificates for future visits)

• Available: February 13-15, 2026

• Includes: Four-course experience with cheese fondue, salad, entrée, and chocolate fondue dessert

• Add-ons: Lobster tail ($19), center-cut filet ($28)

The interactive fondue format naturally encourages conversation and sharing—exactly what Galentine's is about.

Café Hollander and Café Benelux bring Belgian flair

The Lowlands Group restaurants offer special Valentine's menus at multiple convenient locations:

Café Hollander (four locations):

• Addresses: 2608 N. Downer Ave., Milwaukee | 7677 W. State St., Wauwatosa | 5900 W. Mequon Rd., Mequon | 20150 Union St., Brookfield

• Website: cafehollander.com

• Available: February 14-16, 2026

• Specials: Coq au Vin Blanc, flourless chocolate turtle cake, "Match Made in Heaven" cocktail

Café Benelux in the Third Ward:

• Address: 346 N. Broadway, Milwaukee

• Phone: (414) 501-2500

• Website: cafebenelux.com

• Available: February 14-16, 2026

• Specials: Glazed salmon, stuffed red-velvet cupcake, signature cocktails

• Bonus: Rooftop seating when weather permits

Additional upscale picks for celebratory dinners

Cavas MKE offers ultra-intimate dining:

• Address: 401 E. Erie St., Milwaukee

• Website: cavasmke.com

• Price: $240 per couple (works well for pairs of friends)

• Capacity: Only 14 people per seating

• Seatings: 5 PM and 7:30 PM on February 14-15

• Menu: Six-course dinner with whimsical course names like "Falling in Love" and "Happy Ending"

Lupi & Iris adds a floral touch:

• Address: 777 N. Van Buren St., Milwaukee

• Website: lupiandiris.com

• Price: $85+ per person

• Special: Add a custom in-house floral arrangement to take home (order by February 5)

• Menu: Wood-grilled Spanish octopus, Wagyu steak, excellent vegan options

Bars, breweries, and wine bars perfect for girlfriend gatherings

Milwaukee's craft beverage scene delivers plenty of Galentine's-friendly options, from brewery workshops to sophisticated wine tastings.

Saint Kate's bar becomes Galentine's headquarters

The Bar at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel hosts a proper Galentine's Day celebration:

• Address: 139 East Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

• Phone: 414-276-8686

• Website: saintkatearts.com/events/galentines-at-sk

• Date: Friday, February 13, 2026, starting at 4:00 PM

• Features: Chocolate and drink tastings, specialty Galentine's cocktails, live music

• Cost: Pay as you go (no cover)

• Reservations: Walk-ins welcome; reservations recommended for groups

Crowned "Milwaukee's Best Bar To Be Seen At," the art-soaked atmosphere makes this an Instagram-worthy destination. The vibrant space practically demands you dress up and celebrate.

Third Space Brewing combines art and craft beer

Third Space Brewing hosts a Galentine's DIY Heart Mosaic Art Class:

• Address: 1505 W St Paul Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233

• Phone: (414) 909-2337

• Website: thirdspacebrewing.com

• Date: Friday, February 13, 2026 at 6:30 PM

• Price: $51 per person

• Includes: All mosaic supplies plus access to craft beers

Known as "Milwaukee's Happy Place," Third Space offers industrial-chic vibes in the historic Menomonee Valley. The taproom accommodates groups of any size, and private event spaces are available for $100-$600 for larger girlfriend gatherings.

Milwaukee Brewing & Distilling offers pre-Galentine's crafting

Hearts & Besties: A Galentine's Mosaic Workshop:

• Address: 2335 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207

• Website: mkebrewing.com

• Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 6:30 PM

• Price: $45 per person

• Features: Dog-friendly taproom, full-service bar with craft beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails

The Bay View location offers a more intimate alternative to larger venues.

Wine lovers should book Thelma Carol's Bubbles Fest

Thelma Carol Wine Merchants hosts their annual Bubbles Fest:

• Website: thelmacarolwine.com

• Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

• Price: $75 per person

• Includes: 20+ pours of sparkling wines from around the world (Prosecco, Franciacorta, Cava, Champagne) plus lite bites

• Important: Advance tickets REQUIRED—this event sells out every year

For a budget-friendly preview, their Pink Wines for your Gals and Pals tasting on Thursday, February 5 features five rosé wines including bubbles for just $19 per person (no reservations needed).

Distillery experiences for cocktail-loving crews

Great Lakes Distillery (Wisconsin's original distillery since 2004):

• Address: 616 W. Virginia St., Milwaukee

• Phone: (414) 431-8683

• Website: greatlakesdistillery.com

• Tours: $15/person for groups of 4+

• Bonus: Regular "Yoga & Bloody Mary" mornings make for perfect Galentine's brunch

Central Standard Craft Distillery:

• Address: 320 E. Clybourn St., Milwaukee

• Phone: (414) 455-8870

• Website: thecentralstandard.com

• Features: Beautiful 19th-century cream city brick building, rooftop deck with city views, cocktail classes available

• Specialties: Red Cabin whiskey, Door County Cherry Vodka

Spa and wellness experiences for self-care celebrations

Nothing says "I love my friends" like treating yourselves to a day of pampering. Milwaukee offers everything from luxury hotel spas to unique float therapy experiences.

WELL Spa at The Pfister delivers luxury

WELL Spa + Salon at The Pfister Hotel provides Milwaukee's most elegant spa experience:

• Address: 424 E. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202

• Website: pfisterwellspa.com

• Hours: Mon 9AM-9PM, Tue-Wed 9AM-7:30PM, Thu 9AM-9PM, Fri-Sat 9AM-9PM, Sun 9AM-5PM

• Group policy: Groups of 4+ must contact directly to book

• Features: Private two-room suites with bathroom and shower for each guest, full salon services

The historic Victorian setting in "Milwaukee's grandest old hotel" elevates any girlfriend gathering. Plan on spending the full day—the atmosphere deserves savoring.

Neroli Salon & Spa handles group planning beautifully

Neroli Salon & Spa offers dedicated group coordination:

• Locations: 327 E St Paul Ave, Milwaukee (Third Ward) | Sendik's Towne Centre, Brookfield | East Side

• Phone: 414-227-2888 (Group Services)

• Website: nerolisalonspa.com

• Group policy: Dedicated Group Services Concierge handles all planning; 18% gratuity automatically added for groups of 4+

• Book ahead: 10+ weeks recommended for group availability

Curated Package Options:

• Signature Spa Package: 50-min massage + facial + manicure/pedicure

• Stress-Less Package: 80-min massage + 50-min facial + Stress Fix mani/pedi

• Ultimate Spa Package: 80-min Shirodhara therapy + 80-min Ashiatsu massage + spa mani/pedi + blowout

Knick Salon & Spa offers friend-specific packages

Knick Salon & Spa inside the Knickerbocker Hotel:

• Address: 1028 E. Juneau Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

• Phone: (414) 312-7947

• Website: knicksalonandspa.com

• Hours: Tue-Thu 9AM-8PM, Fri 9AM-6PM, Sat 9AM-4PM

Galentine's-Perfect Packages:

• Table for Two ($325): Knick Signature Facial + 1-hour Swedish Massage for each person

• Short Stack ($180): 30-min massage + 30-min facial for two

• Calm Blue Water ($230): CBD massage + CBD facial + Happy Camper Pedicure

• The Reset Button ($500): Full day package—90-min massage, 90-min facial, Headspace massage, full body exfoliation, mani/pedi, lunch from The Knick Restaurant, parking included (Tue-Fri only, 50% deposit required)

All products are vegan and organic (Farmhouse Fresh brand), and the relaxation area serves gourmet teas.

Float therapy offers a unique bonding experience

Float Milwaukee provides something truly different:

• Address: 211 W Freshwater Way, Milwaukee, WI 53204

• Phone: (414) 273-7258

• Email: maddy@floatmilwaukee.com

• Website: floatmilwaukee.com

• Hours: Daily 9AM-9PM (last float 8PM)

• Facilities: 5 float rooms (3 pods, 2 open pools)

• Sessions: 60-minute, 90-minute, or overnight floats

• Additional services: NovoTHOR® red/near-infrared light therapy, roXiva® light therapy

Milwaukee's first floatation tank center allows couples or friends to book side-by-side float rooms. Located near Purple Door Ice Cream and Indulgence Chocolatiers for post-float treats.

Salt therapy creates conversation-free bonding

Salt Room Lake Country (Pewaukee area):

• Website: saltroomlakecountry.com

• Features: State-of-the-art halogenerators, floor-to-ceiling natural rock salt, private group sessions available at discounted rates

The Salt Spot offers multiple wellness modalities:

• Website: thesaltspotllc.com

• Services: Salt cave therapy, red light therapy, cold plunge, infrared sauna

Creative workshops and activity-based celebrations

For friend groups who prefer doing over dining, Milwaukee delivers impressive hands-on experiences.

Splash Studio's Galentine's painting event

Splash Studio at The New Fashioned hosts "Galentine's: Bird's Eye View":

• Address: 1122 N. Vel R. Phillips Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203 (Deer District)

• Phone: (414) 939-8592

• Website: splashmilwaukee.com

• Date: Thursday, February 13, 2026, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Includes: All painting supplies, step-by-step artist instruction, themed food and craft cocktails, snacks (charcuterie, pretzel bites, fresh fruit)

Part of "Love Fest 2026" (February 12-15), the event features partner paintings, sweet treats, Valentine's cocktails, and photo opportunities. Milwaukee's original painting bar since 2012 offers a no-tip bar policy and cashless facility.

Painting with a Twist in Whitefish Bay

Painting with a Twist – Milwaukee/Whitefish Bay:

• Address: 209 E. Silver Spring Drive, Whitefish Bay, WI

• Website: paintingwithatwist.com/studio/milwaukee-whitefish-bay

• Pricing: Typically $35-50 per person

• Features: BYOB welcome, beer and wine available for purchase, private events available

• Add-on: DIY candle making before painting sessions ($15-20 additional)

Voted "Best Paint Studio in Milwaukee" three consecutive years, this North Shore location offers convenient access for suburban girlfriend groups.

Candle making at Glassnote Candle Bar

Glassnote Candle Bar delivers a speakeasy-style experience:

• Address: 524 S. 2nd Street, 2nd Floor, Milwaukee, WI 53204

• Phone: (414) 250-7572

• Website: glassnotecandlebar.com

• Hours: Tue-Fri 5-9pm, Sat 12-9pm, Sun 11am-5pm

• Price: $40 per person ($10 deposit required)

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours

• Includes: Choice of 100+ fragrances (up to 5 per candle), 100% soy wax, custom naming, access to craft cocktail menu

• Private events: Groups of 20+ at $45 per person + 15% gratuity

The process involves blending your custom fragrance, pouring your candle, then sipping cocktails while it flash cools. Board games available for the waiting period.

Cocktails and flowers at Milwaukee Public Market

Milwaukee Public Market hosts "Galentine's: Pretty Drinks & Petite Bouquets":

• Address: 400 N. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202

• Phone: 414-336-1111

• Website: milwaukeepublicmarket.org/class/cooking-classes

• Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 5:30 PM

• Price: $69

• Includes: Cocktail making instruction with Pour Inc., flower arranging with local florist, generous samples

This collaboration celebrates "friendship, creativity, pretty drinks & flowers"—essentially Galentine's in class form.

DIY wood signs at Board & Brush

Board & Brush Creative Studio – Mequon:

• Address: River Centre Plaza (near Café Hollander, Ruby Tap), Mequon, WI

• Website: boardandbrush.com/mequon

• Workshop options: PYP Workshop (choose from 400+ wood projects), Specialty Workshops, Private Parties

• Pricing: Typically starts around $60 per person

• Features: Step-by-step guidance, all supplies provided, BYOB-friendly

Additional locations in Hartland (110 W. Capitol Drive), Elm Grove (13475 Watertown Plank Road), and Hartford serve different areas of the metro.

Flowers for Dreams offers bouquet building

Flowers for Dreams – Milwaukee Galentine's Open Studio:

• Address: 133 W. Pittsburgh Street, Milwaukee, WI

• Website: flowersfordreams.com

• Format: 45-minute reservation slots, self-guided design in artisan floral workshop

• Includes: Blooms, bubbly, and donuts

Create fun, colorful, or romantic bouquets in this Instagram-ready workshop setting.

Shopping events and boutique destinations

For girlfriends who express love through retail therapy, Milwaukee and surrounding communities offer excellent Galentine's shopping experiences.

Crossroads Collective hosts an all-day event

Galentine's Day at Crossroads Collective – "Sip, Style, & Suds":

• Address: 2238 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

• Website: visitmilwaukee.org/event/galentines-day-at-crossroads-collective

Schedule:

• 11 AM – 3 PM: Bottomless Mimosas

• 2 PM – 4 PM: Permanent Jewelry by Kalina & Co.

• 4 PM – 6 PM: DIY Soap-Making Workshop with Alquimia Holistica (tickets required)

Vendor Specials: $5 glasses of wine, heart-shaped quesabirria plate at Mex Ave, Galentine's cocktails at The Pharmacy Bar, Chocolate Strawberry Swirl at Scratch Ice Cream.

This East Side food hall packs shopping, crafts, food, and drinks into one convenient location.

Downtown Fond du Lac goes all-in on Galentine's

Downtown Fond du Lac Galentine's Day:

• Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Phone: (920) 322-2006

• Email: info@downtownfdl.com

• Website: downtownfdl.com/galentines-day

• General event: FREE—sales, specials, and activities throughout downtown

VIP Galentine's Experience ($25):

• Complimentary gift from each participating VIP location

• Commemorative Galentine's Day tote bag

• Limited to 300 tickets

• Self-care and wellness perks

Worth the hour drive north for girlfriend groups wanting a full shopping-focused day trip.

Historic Third Ward boutiques reward exploring

Milwaukee's premier shopping district offers walkable boutiques perfect for Galentine's adventures:

The District Row – High-end women's boutique:

• Curated apparel, accessories, art, and home décor

• Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-6pm; Monday by appointment

• Private shopping parties available

• Website: thedistrictrow.com

Lela Boutique – Trend-forward fashion:

• 222 N. Broadway, Milwaukee

• Emerging and established designers

MOD GEN: A Modern General Store – Unique plants and home goods with potting bar feature

MICHAL – New luxury lingerie boutique (opening winter 2026):

• 321 N. Jefferson Street, Milwaukee

• Private shopping events for groups available

Cedarburg delivers small-town charm

Located 20 minutes north of Milwaukee, downtown Cedarburg was voted #1 for Best Shopping and makes an ideal Galentine's day trip destination.

Cedar Creek Settlement:

• Address: N70 W6340 Bridge Road, Cedarburg, WI 53012

• Historic 1864 woolen mill with 20+ specialty shops, galleries, restaurants

• Cedar Creek Winery offers tastings in limestone cellars

Notable Cedarburg boutiques:

• Bohemia (W62 N587 Washington Ave, 262-375-2700) – Home décor, handmade gifts, in-house design services

• Lillies (W62 N553 Washington Ave, 262-377-7047) – Women's clothing and gifts

• Amy's Candy Kitchen – Legendary caramel apples and handcrafted chocolates

• Cedar Creek Pottery – Wisconsin pottery since 1978

Washington House Inn offers overnight Galentine's getaways with complimentary wine and cheese receptions, whirlpool tubs, and fireplaces.

Hotel packages make weekend getaways easy

Milwaukee Hotel Month overlaps perfectly

Milwaukee Hotel Month 2026 runs January 14 – February 28, offering 15-25% off at participating hotels:

• The Pfister Hotel – Luxury historic property, Condé Nast Traveler recognized

• Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel – Boutique arts hotel with curated exhibitions

• The Iron Horse Hotel – "Born to Roam Bundle" available

• Renaissance Milwaukee West – "Macy's Shopping Experience Package"

Details: 110 Milwaukee-area businesses participating with additional deals Book at: visitmilwaukee.org/hotelmonth

Combine discounted hotel stays with Galentine's events for the ultimate girlfriend getaway weekend.

Planning tips for a successful Galentine's celebration

Book immediately: Popular events like Thelma Carol's Bubbles Fest and spa packages sell out quickly. Restaurant reservations for Valentine's week (including Galentine's Friday) fill within weeks of becoming available.

Consider the timeline: Galentine's Day 2026 falls on Friday, February 13th—the day before Valentine's Saturday. Many events extend into "Galentine's Week" spanning February 11-15, giving you flexibility.

Budget accordingly: Options range from free (RAYNE IX Soiree) to splurge-worthy ($500 full-day spa packages at Knick Salon). Most paint nights and workshops fall in the $40-70 range; dinners run $79-125 for upscale experiences.

Group size matters:

• Spa groups of 4+ often trigger automatic 18-20% gratuity

• Neroli recommends booking 10+ weeks ahead for group availability

• Private event spaces at Third Space Brewing range $100-$600

• Many venues require deposits for groups

Transportation planning: If your Galentine's involves wine tasting or cocktails, designate a driver or plan for rideshare. Third Ward locations cluster conveniently for bar-hopping; suburban destinations like Cedarburg or Fond du Lac work better with a designated driver.

Layer your celebration: The most memorable Galentine's combine multiple elements—start with brunch, move to a workshop, end with drinks. The Crossroads Collective event exemplifies this all-in-one approach.

Make your reservation checklist

Immediately (fills first):

• Thelma Carol Wine Bubbles Fest tickets

• Onesto Italian Galentine's Dinner

• RAYNE IX Soiree registration (free but limited)

6-10 weeks out:

• Neroli Salon & Spa group packages

• Knick Salon & Spa packages requiring deposits

• Private event spaces at breweries

2-4 weeks out:

• Paint night reservations

• Candle making sessions

• Restaurant reservations for standard dining

Day of:

• Saint Kate Galentine's celebration (walk-in friendly)

• Crossroads Collective drop-in activities

• Third Ward boutique shopping

Galentine's Day celebrates the friendships that carry us through everything else. Whether you spend February 13th clinking champagne flutes at Thelma Carol, creating mosaic hearts at Third Space Brewing, or simply wandering Cedarburg's charming streets together, the point is being present with your people. Milwaukee makes that easy—and delicious, relaxing, creative, and fun. Gather your girlfriends and start planning. Waffles optional, friendship required.