Celebrate the Women Who Lift You Up: Embrace Galentine's Day

As Valentine’s Day approaches, you might notice a push to place romantic love at the forefront. However, let’s not overlook a significant holiday: Galentine’s Day.

There aren’t nearly enough holidays that honor friendships, one of the most crucial types of relationships we cherish. This is precisely why Galentine’s Day deserves our attention. Conceptualized by Leslie Knope, the endearing character portrayed by Amy Poehler on “Parks and Recreation,” this day is dedicated to celebrating and elevating female friendships. Traditionally observed on February 13th, just before Valentine’s Day, it highlights the significance of these bonds but can really be celebrated any day you choose.

While it’s easy to get swept up in Valentine’s Day festivities, particularly if a new romance is blossoming, embracing Galentine’s Day can become a cherished custom with your friends. Whether you’re newly in love or have a long-standing partnership, reconnecting with friends and affirming their role in your life is invaluable during this season of affection. It doesn’t have to be an either-or situation.

We often underestimate our friendships and the energy we invest in them. Yet, studies consistently demonstrate the critical support that close friendships provide, sometimes surpassing even romantic relationships in importance throughout our lives. Female friendships, in particular, can enhance life quality and longevity, truly a cause for celebration!

Celebrating our partners on Valentine’s Day is indeed wonderful. Yet, we should also cherish those who stood by us before our romantic journeys began—the ones who listen when we need to vent and who might witness us take significant life steps with our partners.

In Leslie Knope’s vision of Galentine’s Day, it doesn’t matter if you’re single or in a relationship; the idea is to come together in appreciation of the special attributes of female camaraderie. Celebrations can range from a simple dinner outing or hosting a gathering at a friend’s place to a joyful after-work happy hour or a serene walk in the great outdoors. You might choose to exchange small gifts or simply enjoy an activity you both adore. Often, it’s these small gestures that leave the most impact.

Of course, as rewarding as they are, female friendships can face challenges, and there isn’t a clearly defined guide for navigating tough times with a friend like there often is for romantic relationships.