Galentine's Day: What It Is & How to Celebrate It

pancakes, toasts, berries, pastries, and eggs on a table with hearts

February 13th is right around the corner, and you know what that means—it’s Galentine’s Day! This sweet holiday celebrates the amazing friendships we have with our female friends. Regardless of your romantic relationship status, everyone can appreciate a day dedicated to friendship and sisterhood, right? Read on to learn about the holiday, its history, fun facts, and how you can make this Galentine’s Day one to remember.

What Is Galentine's Day?

Galentine's Day is a holiday on February 13th that celebrates the power and strength of female friendships. On Galentine's Day, friends exchange thoughtful gifts, share memories and stories, and generally savor and enjoy the company of one another. It's also a great opportunity to show your unwavering support and build a sense of community.

woman holding tray of cupcakes and red roses in a vase

The History of Galentine's Day

Although Galentine's Day might have been recognized by some in the past, it was first popularized in 2010 by the television show Parks and Recreation. The episode depicted the main character, Leslie Knope, gathering her female friends to celebrate their friendship. She explains, "What is 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...ladies celebrating ladies." The holiday has since become a favored annual tradition for many people across the globe.

Whether you want to acknowledge a popular food, a beloved pastime, or commemorate a made-up holiday from your favorite TV show, a “holiday” can be created by just about anyone with a good idea and enough support online. Here are a few other “holidays” you can celebrate alongside the ones we all know and love.

5 Ways to Celebrate Galentine's Day This Year

Generating meaningful connections with each other is essential, so don't forget to make time for your gal pals! Get creative with these five ideas or come up with your own way of celebrating Galentine's Day this year. We promise you'll have a blast.

1. Host a potluck Galentine's Day brunch.

Avoid the hustle and bustle of lines and crowds at restaurant hot spots and enjoy the most important (and delicious) meal of the day at home instead. Invite each friend and guest to bring their favorite breakfast treat, let the bloody Marys and mimosas flow, and relax and chat in peace.

2. Organize a themed lunch.

white tea party set with pink berries, blankets, and fruits

Taco bar. Grown-up Galentine's Day tea party. DIY pizza party. Fondue feast. There are so many Galentine's Day lunch ideas. Include beverages, appetizers, a main course, and desserts that fit within the parameters of your theme--and don't forget to have fun, of course.

3. Host a virtual hangout.

We've all gotten pretty good at virtual hangouts over the past couple of years, which makes this an easy option for those with busy schedules or too many time zones or miles separating you. Play simple games, discuss your latest reads and binge-worthy shows over a small wine and cheese tasting, or just catch up on everything you've missed.

4. Have a spa day.

mother and daughter laying down with cucumbers over eyes

Who doesn't need a spa day? Get matching plush robes, cucumber slices, lemon-infused water, face masks, eye gels, warm towels, items for mani-pedis, and whatever else you think your at-home spa might need. Set up spa stations and wind down with your favorite people in the world. If you feel like splurging, make it a relaxing day in an actual spa. Go ahead and go all out—you've earned it.

5. Put on a movie night.

Get comfy on the floor or couch with pillows and blankets, grab the buttery popcorn and movie candy, and turn on a hilarious or heartwarming movie all about the girls. Our top Galentine's Day films to watch include:

Bridesmaids (2011)
Girls Trip (2017)
Bring It On (2000)
Someone Great (2019)
Pitch Perfect (2012)
Legally Blonde (2001)
Thema & Louise (1991)

A Lasting Bouquet for Galentine's Day (or Valentine's Day!)

bouquets of pink, orange, white, and green flowers wrapped in brown paper

There’s nothing better than giving—or receiving—a fresh and beautiful bouquet of flowers for Galentine’s Day (or Valentine’s Day). However, there is just one downside—fresh-cut flowers usually have a pretty short lifespan. Luckily, there are a few tricks to keep your buds from looking sad and drooping too soon. Read our article, “How to Make Your Valentine’s Day Flowers Last Even Longer,” for tried-and-true tips to get the most out of your stunning blooms this year.