February: the month all about love. As time gets closer to Valentine’s Day, couples are spotted exchanging gifts of flowers and heart-shaped chocolates to express their love for one another. However, Valentine’s Day isn’t the only holiday about love this month. Galentine’s Day is a popular celebration for women during February. Whether it’s going out to brunch, a spa day, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Galentine’s Day is a fantastic way to show love and appreciation for Gal-Pals.
“I love being able to celebrate a Galentine’s Day with my friends every year,” junior Stevie Martinez said. “For me, Galentine’s Day consists of grabbing your girlfriends and having a good day making treats together. I love making heart-shaped pizzas and charcuterie boards with them. Mostly food. I like food.”
Galentine’s Day was originally introduced in the popular show ‘Parks and Recreation’ in season 2, episode 16. The character Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler, introduced the concept in a 2012 episode, celebrating it on February 13th, the day before Valentine’s Day. Leslie describes Galentine’s as a day for “ladies celebrating ladies,” where women come together and honor their friendships with a variety of activities. Due to social media, it has risen in popularity and become a trend.
“I’ve known that Galentine’s Day originated from Parks and Recreation, but most people only know it because of Tiktok,” an anonymous sophomore said. “Leslie Knope is such an amazing character, and the fact that she created a day to celebrate friendships is perfect. I love that it’s become a trend and that more people know about it. It makes me happy knowing that a little piece of my favorite show has come to life.”
What makes Galentine’s Day unique is how versatile it can be. There aren’t any set rules or standards for this holiday, which makes it unique compared to Valentine’s Day. It can be celebrated in so many different ways, depending on what you and your girlfriends enjoy. It can be as modest or extravagant as people want, making it easy to tailor to each persons preferences.
“A few days ago I went out to Napolis for a Galentine’s Day celebration with my close friends, Adelia and Stevie,” junior Marjorie Cowens said. “The food was delicious, but honestly it was the company that made it so special. There’s something so heartwarming about taking a day to celebrate the incredible friendships I have, and how lucky I am to have them.”
Regardless of how Galentine’s Day is celebrated, it’s important to honor the special bonds shared with women. In a world where genuine connections may sometimes be hard to find, this holiday reminds people that love isn’t just for romantic relationships, but is equally important in friendships.
“I don’t think people understand that Galentine’s Day really has the ability to bring people together,” Martinez said. “It’s not just a fun, aesthetic party you see when doom-scrolling on TikTok; it genuinely helps women connect and understand that they are loved by not just their partner, but their close friends too. Galentine’s Day is a very powerful holiday.”