Galentine’s Day 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Celebrating Female Friendship
Because love isn’t just about romance—it’s about the women who make life sparkle.
When is Galentine’s Day 2025?
Galentine’s Day falls on Thursday, February 13, 2025—the day before Valentine’s Day. This unofficial holiday, popularized by Parks and Recreation, is dedicated to celebrating the platonic love between female friends, sisters, moms, and mentors. Mark your calendars for waffles, mimosas, and squad selfies!
What is a Galentine?
A Galentine (pronounced gal-uhn-tine) is your ride-or-die bestie, your confidante, or your “person” outside of romance. The term blends gal and valentine, coined by Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler’s iconic character) in a 2010 Parks and Recreation episode. As Leslie declared, it’s a day for “ladies celebrating ladies” over brunch and heartfelt gifts.
- Who can be a Galentine? While traditionally female-focused, the holiday welcomes anyone valuing platonic bonds, including nonbinary friends and supportive allies.
- Key traits: Loyalty, humor, and the ability to hype you up and call you out.
Galentine’s Day Meaning: Why It Matters
Galentine’s Day isn’t just a Hallmark holiday—it’s a cultural reset celebrating female empowerment and friendship. Here’s why it resonates:
- A Counter to Valentine’s Day: For those tired of romantic pressure, Galentine’s offers a space to honor friendships that often outlast relationships.
- Female Empowerment: It’s a nod to the #WomenSupportWomen movement, highlighting achievements and resilience in sisterhood.
- Inclusivity: Whether single, partnered, or “it’s complicated,” everyone’s invited. Leslie Knope’s ethos? “The more the merrier!” .
How to Celebrate in 2025: Leslie Knope-Approved Ideas
Channel your inner Leslie with these activities:
- Brunch Like a Boss: Waffles, frittatas, and bottomless mimosas—Leslie’s OG tradition. Pro tip: Add a DIY mimosa bar with edible glitter.
- Spa Day Slay: Facials, mani-pedis, and “Treat Yo’ Self” energy (shoutout to Donna Meagle!). Many spas offer Galentine’s discounts.
- Movie Marathon: Watch Mean Girls, Bridesmaids, or Little Women—films celebrating female bonds. Popcorn with pink Himalayan salt optional but encouraged.
- Galentine’s Gifting: Swap self-care kits, friendship bracelets, or custom “Best Human” awards. Leslie’s advice: “The more personalized, the better!” .
The History of Galentine’s Day
Born from a 2010 Parks and Rec episode (Season 2, Episode 16), Galentine’s Day quickly transcended fiction. Leslie Knope’s over-the-top brunch—complete with handmade gifts and waffles—struck a chord. By 2017, brands like Target and L’Oréal capitalized on the trend, selling themed gifts and hosting Insta-worthy parties.
- Key milestone: The hashtag #GalentinesDay trends annually, with 98% of women citing close friendships as vital to their happiness.
Why We Love Galentine’s Day
- It Defies Norms: Challenges the idea that romantic love is the “ultimate goal” .
- Creates Memories: From brunch fails to TikTok dances, it’s about laughter and connection.
- Supports Small Businesses: Many shops curate Galentine’s gift boxes, from local bakeries to Etsy artisans.
