Friendships of the 21st century are playing an increasingly important role in society and
are helping people find their sense of self in the world. This sparked the rise in popularity of the
fictional holiday, Galentine’s Day. Created in the TV series, “Parks and Recreation,” it has brought
women together on “Valentines Eve” in celebration of female friendships everywhere.
“What’s Galentine’s Day? Oh, it’s only the best day of the year,” Amy Poehler’s exuberant
Parks and Rec character, Leslie Knope, said. “Every February 13th
my lady friends and I leave our husbands and boyfriends at home,
and we just kick it breakfast style. Ladies celebrating ladies.”
Ever since the episode aired in 2010—becoming the highest
rated episode of the series—the unofficial holiday has become just
as big a deal as its Valentine’s Day counterpart, and its generating big
money. Many businesses like Party City, Walmart, and Target, have
started selling themed products like cards, candies, and tote bags
promoting Galentine’s Day.
Galentine’s Day sales are predicted to bring in a 20 percent total
revenue increase over the next three years, according to an estimate
by National Purchase Diary (NDP) Group retail analyst Marshal
Cohen.
In February, romantic relationships get all of the attention
as many prepare to shower their significant other with declarations of
love, but friendships are just as worthy of celebrating.
Whether you’re single or taken, there are plenty of ways to
celebrate like going out to brunch, hosting a movie night, or spending
the day shopping.
“I love to hang out with my girl friends and eat loads of sweets
like ice cream and chocolate,” Zoe Nicholson (’20) said. “This holiday
probably isn’t necessary, but it’s a super fun way for friends to
celebrate Valentine’s Day without being in a relationship.”
Social media outlets like Instagram and Snapchat serve as a
platform to show appreciation for friends.
“Usually [on Galentine’s Day] I’ll post a picture with my friends
to let them know how much they mean to me,” Sarah Salles (’21)
said. “It’s a day to appreciate my friends and let them know how
much I love and care about them.”
Many have expressed their opposition to the new holiday
even more than Valentine’s Day as they believe these relationships
should be celebrated year-round. However, the sad reality is that we
don’t make time for our loved ones among the daily stresses that
consume our lives.
“A lot of people get caught up in school or sports and forget to
let their friends know how much they value their friendship,” Salles said. “I prefer Galentine’s Day
over Valentine’s Day because friends are always there for you and are usually more long-term than
a boyfriend or girlfriend.”
Use this Galentine’s Day as an excuse to make time for your friends—the possibilities of
celebrating are unique to each friend group as there are no rules for this unofficial holiday.