Wrapped in fuzzy blankets with “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” projected on the massive TV and a bucket of caramel popcorn in hand, a group of friends join together to toast to the holiday. Traditionally celebrated on Feb 13, Galentine’s day now steals the spotlight and Cupid shuffles to the left.
What started as a fictional celebration on the TV show “Parks and Recreation” has evolved into a real-world phenomenon, with women everywhere embracing Galentine’s Day as a time to celebrate friendship, self-confidence and empowerment.
“I think Galentine’s is a really good way to build connections and just fee
(Amirah Carson)
l appreciated,” junior Ananya Prasath said. “It’s a very empowering tradition that reminds us to support each other, build connections, and take time to celebrate the people who uplift and inspire us.”
Not having a partner hasn’t stopped girls from celebrating themselves and others. Many students have redefined love, turning to friendship rather than romance when celebrating this holiday.
“I feel like romance isn’t necessarily something that everyone has in high school,” junior Srimayi Sriram said.“I think celebrating Galentine’s is a great alternative for people who don’t have partners because it makes them feel included.”
From eating dinner out with friends to having a party at home, there are many ways to celebrate Galentine’s Day. The celebration can be arts and crafts activities and price friendly; even a simple potluck can be considered a Galentine’s Day party. Other ways to celebrate are picnics, game nights, or if not able to attend a virtual party can be hosted to have the same qualities.
“[Our Galentine’s Day party] will probably be a potluck type thing, so I’ll bring something like homemade cupcakes or cookies and help bring some decorations, cups, and games for us to play,” Prasath said. “We’re all pitching in, which makes it even more special.”
Another similarity between Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day, other than its intentions, are the colors commonly used. Many choose to decorate houses, cakes and themselves in pink, white and red, maintaining the classic tradition.
“I think Galentine’s Day is simply just a fun excuse to wear pink, white, and red,” senior Eubin Kim said.
With new trends popping up on the internet every day, social media has played a key role in spreading Galentine’s Day. From Instagram to TikTok, friends share their own ways of celebrating – a new twist to a classic holiday.
“It’s popular because it’s fun, relatable, and easy to get into,” Sriram said. “Plus, social media has made it even bigger by making it something that many people want to participate in.”
