I hate Valentine’s Day. A whole day to remind me how chronically single I am? No thank you. That’s why I choose to celebrate Galentine’s Day on February 13th. This fictional holiday was created by one of my favorite television characters ever, Leslie Knope from “Parks and Recreation.” In the show, Leslie celebrates Galentine’s Day to honor all the important women in her life including her best friends, her coworkers, and her mom. I feel like I shouldn’t even elaborate on why celebrating strong women who shape your life is way better than how I usually spend Valentine’s Day – eating chocolates alone in bed. So forget about Valentine’s Day! In my mind, it’s just another day. Here are some fun ways to celebrate Galentine’s Day – the real holiday.
1. Go Out
This one could be tricky depending on what day Galentine’s Day falls on. For example, this year Galentine’s falls on a Sunday, so probably not the best night to have a crazy night with your friends and then feel awful on Monday morning. But going out doesn’t always have to be crazy. Spend your Galentine’s Day with all of your friends and family members with a nice dinner out. Usually, couples have a fancy dinner on Valentine’s Day, so going the night before can help ensure a reservation.
2. Stay In
If you and your friends aren’t the going-out types, take this opportunity to have a night in. Watch movies, play games, or cook together! There are so many options when it comes to staying in and the best part is, you can please your inner introvert by avoiding a lot of people.
3. Arts and Crafts
I know this may sound somewhat childish, but I am a firm believer in the arts, even if it looks like a two-year-old did it (which is my art). I recently spent a night with all of my friends painting with watercolors and, let me tell you, it was one of the best things ever. Channeling creative outlets with other people gives you a chance to bond further and just let go of any stress in your life. Other ideas for artsy things to do would be going to a paint-your-own-pottery place, a Bob Ross night, crocheting–the possibilities are endless.
4. Volunteer
I think this is a great idea for many reasons. For one, I find that volunteering can really bring people together. Not only are you providing a service to your community, but you can hang out with your friends at the same time. Volunteering can also give back to other women you don’t even know. This would certainly make everyone’s Galentine’s Day.
5. Give Gifts
Just like Leslie Knope herself, I love giving gifts. It’s almost as good as getting them. Giving gifts, even if they are small, is such a meaningful way to let those in your life know you care about them. The good thing about Galentine’s Day as opposed to Valentine’s Day is that no one is expecting a gift so you can’t really let anyone down.
6. Brunch
Combining two meals into one? Yes, please. If you aren’t immediately drawn in by the idea of breakfast and lunch foods, it is still a great opportunity to hang out with some friends. And on a sunny morning, this can be the perfect activity to do.
7. Study Together
I know this doesn’t sound fun, but this is actually how I will be spending my Galentine’s Day this year. Since it falls on a Sunday, I just know I will have a boatload of homework that I will have procrastinated getting done. But studying isn’t always awful (even though most of the time it is). Studying with friends is a great way to spend time together and get work done. Personally, just being around my friends, even if we aren’t talking, makes me feel closer to them.
All jokes aside, Galentine’s Day doesn’t have to replace Valentine’s Day, but it can be its own thing. Just because you may not have anyone to spend Valentine’s Day with doesn’t mean you don’t have important people in your life who care about you. Galentine’s Day doesn’t have to be a cheap knockoff of Valentine’s Day, but it can truly be spent honoring the women in your life who make you into a better person.