If you’re wondering to yourself “What IS Galentines Day?” then you’re about to find out about something fabulous! Because, despite selling greeting cards (and Valentine’s Day being my busiest time of year) I think Galentine’s Day is even better 😍
Valentine’s Day can be a difficult time for some, whether you’ve struggled to find someone special, just broken up with your other half or even decided that you’d rather be single. It’s all a bit ‘coupley’ and implies that if you’re not involved in a romantic relationship you’re missing out. And that’s where Galentine’s Day comes in…
So what is Galentines Day?
I’m sure you’ve already guessed that it’s a blend of Valentine’s Day and Gal – and it’s a chance to celebrate friendships with your gal pals. Specifically those pals that have stuck with you as romantic relationships have come and gone…
It all started with an episode of Parks and Recreation. Leslie, the Deputy Director of the Parks and Recreation Department in the series, explained:
What’s Galentine’s Day? Oh it’s only the best day of the year. Every February 13th, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it, breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies. It’s like Lilith Fair, minus the angst. Plus frittatas.
“Galentine’s Day”, Parks and Recreation, 2010.
It’s such a great idea that it didn’t take long for it to advance beyond its fictional roots and hit the real world. It’s not an official holiday but who cares! You can even buy Galentine’s cards now, but it’s more about spending time with your besties.
One of the reasons it’s become popular (aside from the fact that celebrating friendship is always a good idea) is that it’s a much more inclusive celebration. Valentine’s Day can feel a bit grating if you’re not in a relationship with someone. Although you can send a Valentine to anyone you fancy, it has kind of become the domain of smug couples. Galentine’s Day on the other hand is for anyone. You don’t even have to be single!
Although Galentine’s Day did start out as a celebration of ladies celebrating each other, it has started to be accepted as an occasion that honours any type of friendship, so is becoming even more inclusive as a result.
Are you going to celebrate Galentine’s Day with your besties? Come on over to Instagram and let me know how…
