Laughter, clinking glasses, and the warm hum of conversation filled the air at Orland Ale House on February 13, as women gathered to celebrate Galentine’s Day. The event, held at the popular Orland Park establishment located at 14225 S. 95th Ave., was a heartfelt tribute to the power of female friendship.
Galentine’s Day, a global holiday dedicated to honoring the bonds between women, originated as a fictional event on the television show Parks and Recreation but has since become a beloved real-life tradition.
Observed on the eve of Valentine’s Day, February 13, has become a time for women to uplift and appreciate each other through gatherings, gifts, and shared experiences.
At Orland Ale House, the spirit of the holiday was in full swing. Friends sipped on craft beers and signature cocktails, indulged in a selection of delicious appetizers, and enjoyed themed festivities that encouraged camaraderie and fun.
“Galentine’s Day is a great way to remind ourselves how important it is to support and uplift each other as women, no matter what stage of life we’re in,” said Diana Butcher, of Orland Park.
Many attendees, including those at Butcher’s table, arrived in coordinated outfits, from vibrant shades of pink and red to playful heart-themed accessories, embracing the festive energy of the night.
The event was organized by Orland Ale House General Manager Kris Muschler, a New Lenox resident, who was inspired by the bar’s dedication to themed events.
“We are big into theme events with different things going on most nights of the week,” he said.
“We have done cocktail-making classes before and have had great feedback on it. We figured to celebrate Galentine’s Day, we could do a class making some Valentine-inspired cocktails and lead it into our Music Bingo night to make it a full night out.”
Attendees enjoyed a carefully curated experience, beginning with Cupid Mimosas made with homemade strawberry purée and individual charcuterie boards. Muschler led the cocktail-making portion, starting with a drink called “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off,” a layered blend of margarita and cabernet, named after a Joe Nichols country song.
“I showed the drink being made, then helped the ladies make their own,” he said. The second featured cocktail, a “Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini,” added a creamy and eye-catching twist to the evening.
After the cocktail class, the celebration continued with Music Bingo, ensuring a lively and entertaining atmosphere well into the night.
Orland Ale House, originally opened in December 2014 as the Brass Tap, rebranded under its current name in November 2022. Owned by Tom and Rita McMullen, the bar has become a staple in the Orland Park community.
“Orland Park is a great community with lots going on,” Muschler said. “Since we opened, we have made so many great friends and regulars here. It seems no matter what is going on, we always have people that are willing to pitch in and help, which is what community is all about.”
From heartfelt toasts to spontaneous dance sessions, the night was filled with moments of joy and connection. For many, it was a chance to step away from the demands of daily life and simply enjoy the company of friends, especially to Cheryl D-Aguanno, who attended with some of her closest friends.
“It’s such a fun night out with the girls,” D-Aguanno, of Tinley Park, said.
As Galentine’s Day continues to grow in popularity, gatherings like the one at Orland Ale House serve as a reminder of the value of friendship and the importance of setting aside time to cherish the people who lift us up. Whether through an intimate brunch, an evening out, or a cozy night in, the message remains the same that female friendships are worth celebrating, not only on Galentine’s Day but every day.
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