Galentine's Day

Galentine's Day History

Galentine's Day is dedicated to acknowledging the significance, support, and joy that relationships bring to many women's lives. The celebration typically involves gift-giving, dining out, and spending quality time with close female friends. Such activities not only serve to strengthen these bonds but also create an opportunity for women to express appreciation to each other.

The concept of Galentine's Day was popularized by the American television show "Parks and Recreation" in 2010 when the character Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler, hosted a breakfast for her female friends on February 13th. While the observance originated in American pop culture, it resonates with many women across the country owing to its cathartic celebration of female camaraderie. As such, it can be seen as a positive response to societal expectations that often relegate friendships to the periphery of romantic relationships, providing a platform to honor the vital role friendships play in many people's lives.

In America, women celebrate Galentine's Day in various ways. Some women host parties, others opt for intimate gatherings or outings, and some dedicate the day to exchanging thoughtful gifts. There is no prescribed way to observe the day making it an occasion for individual interpretation and celebration. Fittingly, Galentine's Day occurs the day before Valentine's Day, on February 13, underlining the importance of love in its many forms.

Facts about Galentine's Day

• Galantine's Day was created in 2010 and it continues to go strong. It has reached a large enough following that several businesses like Target have promoted the holiday on their social media pages. They have even sold merchandise and themed products such as gift baskets.
• Oh, it’s only the best day of the year. 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 - Leslie Knope, in reference to Galentine's Day.
• Parks and Recreation is an American political satire NBC sitcom series. It aired from 2009 to 2015 with over 125 episodes and seven seasons. It has won the Number One Television series award in 2012 and the Outstanding Achievement in Comedy award in 2013.
• The holiday was introduced by the character Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler. She described Galentine's Day as "Ladies celebrating ladies. It's like Lilith Fair, minus the angst. Plus frittatas."

In the News and Trending in the US for Galentine's Day

Top things to do in the US for Galentine's Day

• Spend time with your girlfriends. Go to brunch, enjoy happy hour, or plan a nice night out at a fancy restaurant.
• Watch the episode Galentines Day. It is the 16th episode of the 2nd season of Parks and Recreation. In it, Leslie attempts to reunite her mother with her teenage flame.
• Buy gifts for your best friends as a celebration of friendship.