The beginning of February kicked off the official start to Valentine’s Day season, and yesterday many celebrated with loved ones. Brands are rolling out Valentine’s day promotions, stores are putting out valentine’s day candy and love is in the air. But who says that Valentine’s Day season could only apply to those with a significant other?
Galentine’s Day, a recent phenomenon, has emerged to fill that gap, celebrating friendships between women, as indicated by the “Gal” instead of “Val” in the name. Women get together on the day before Valentine’s Day (February 13) and celebrate their camaraderie.
Galentine’s Day originates from “Parks and Recreation,” a popular sitcom from 2009, as the term was coined by the main character, Leslie Knope. The term specifically came from season two episode 16 of “Parks and Recreation,” aired in 2010; Leslie and her friends would celebrate being women. It’s an empowering holiday and many people participate in the festivities.
Galentine’s Day in a way is similar to Festivus from “Seinfeld,” a holiday popularized by the public from a TV show. Those who participate in Galentine’s do it in their own ways, such as buying a gift for each one of their friends, exchanging gifts, or even hanging out with their friends and participating in activities with them.
An RV sophomore, Misha Arisha, believes in Galentine’s Day’s power.
“[To me], Galentine’s is about celebrating the girlhood among women and uplifting one another during a time that is intended to spread love and positivity,” she said — and she’s not the only one who is taking to the trend, many young women and girls are participating.
“To me Galentine’s Day celebrates friendships and the bond between women,” said Ava Petras, a sophomore at RV. “It’s a day to honor and appreciate the important women in your life, whether they’re friends or family. This year, my friends and I are just exchanging gifts between each other.”
“Galentines to me means spending time with my best friends who are always there for me,” said Eliana Boonstra, an RV sophomore. “[I’m] getting gifts for my friends and going out for brunch, celebrating by making a bunch of Valentine’s themed desserts!”
“My friend and I are going to get brunch, exchange gifts and spend the day together,” said RV Junior Caroline Browning said when asked about her plans for the holiday. “I think it’s an amazing opportunity to spend quality time with your friends and family. I love it. I get to see my favorite people and celebrate with them, so it’s really great!”
Galentine’s is not just a holiday, it’s a way to empower a woman in your life or to celebrate your cherished friendships. The holiday is a symbol for women empowerment and celebrating those we love. This holiday is clearly widely celebrated at RV, so, if you’re interested and want to celebrate, plan a day with your friends or celebrate an important woman in your life, it’s Galentine’s Day!
