Forget Valentine’s, Celebrate Galentine’s!

BY AVA GUARINO

Girls around the world are reshaping the narrative of Valentine’s week with Galentine’s celebrations. From inventive charcuterie boards to delightful “candy salads,” a spirit of sisterhood is in the air, transforming a historically romantic holiday into a vibrant celebration of platonic love.

Many individuals’ TikTok feeds have been showing videos of girls getting together to celebrate “Galentine's Day,” a day dedicated to appreciating friendship. 

Women enjoying a Galentine’s Day celebration. Sunday Edit

These get-togethers include indulging in sweet treats, watching movies, or making crafts, and often have charming Valentine's Day decor. 18-year-old Ally Longo from New Jersey shared that she plans to host a Galentine’s Day party for her friends, as she believes it will “be a great way to show my appreciation for some of my best friends and enjoy fun activities with them.” 

In preparation for these gatherings, many girls have concocted creative recipes and activities. Some girls on TikTok have made “candy salad” for their friends, a large bowl or jar filled with a variety of pink and red candies. Others have bought matching pajamas, made custom flower bouquets, and cooked heart-shaped pizzas.

Heart-shaped pizza. Sargento

These celebrations have also helped girls recognize the importance of friendship and have relieved feelings of pressure to be in a relationship. 18-year-old Megan Altier from New Jersey noted that Galentine’s Day “allows me to further appreciate the friendships I have, and actually makes me feel less lonely on Valentine’s Day!”

Instead of sulking in your bed this Valentine’s Day, plan a Galentine’s celebration to show the love you have for your friends. Don’t forget the candy salad!