A paper banner stating “Happy Galentine’s Day” hangs in the window. Pink balloons hang over a table filled with pink cupcakes and a heart shaped Chick-fil-a chicken tray. Between snacking, music is playing loudly and laughs are being shared. The host Ava Bella, junior, passes out small gift bags as everyone sits down at the table.
“Galentine’s Day means showing appreciation for the people who are always there for you no matter what,” Karson Filut, senior, said. “It’s about celebrating the friendships that feel like family.”
Galentine’s Day is typically celebrated on February 13 and focuses on honoring friendships rather than romantic relationships. Activities often include gift exchanges, games, and movie nights. It gives students a way to celebrate connection without the pressure of Valentines Day.
“At first it was just hanging out, but over time it is just something me and my friends make sure we have planned every year,” Kyla Mitchell, junior, said. “Now it’s kind of a tradition for us.”
For many students friendships provide emotional support during stressful times at school and in their personal lives. Friends often serve as a support that helps students feel understood and less alone.
“My friends support me by always listening and checking in on me. They help me feel less alone, especially when things get overwhelming,” Kya Nye, junior, said.
While Valentine’s Day places a strong emphasis on romantic relationships, some students believe friendships are often overlooked. Galentine’s Day offers an opportunity to highlight the value of friendships.
“People put so much pressure on having a valentine, but friendships deserve their own day too,” Aleksandra Kielbasa, senior, said.
Galentine’s Day can also help reduce the stress and exclusion some students feel around Valentine’s Day. By focusing on friendship, the celebration becomes more inclusive for those who don’t have a romantic partner.
“Valentine’s Day can be stressful if you don’t have a partner. Galentine’s makes it more inclusive and fun for everyone,” Tehya Nye, junior, said.
Celebrations usually involve food, music, and time spent together. Many groups chose to celebrate at someone’s house with snacks, desserts, or takeout food while talking and watching movies.
“We usually just get pizza, and everyone brings a dessert or snack and just hangs out at someone’s house” Mitchell said.
Even for people who are in relationships, Galentine’s remains an important way to maintain friendships while also balancing different relationships.
“Even if you have a valentine, it’s still important to make time for your friends,” Tehya Nye said.
As Galentine’s Day continues to grow in popularity among students, it serves at a reminder that friendships play a lasting role in their lives.
“Romantic relationships can come, and go but your friends are what really last. I feel like no matter how close you and your boyfriend are, your friends come first because those are the real ones. Like they are always going to be there for you,” Ella O’Malley, junior, said.
In the end, the pink decorations and heart-shaped trays are just the details. What truly defines Galentine’s Day is the laughter throughout the room, the comfort of being surrounded by people who understand you, and the simple act of appreciating your friends that feel like family.
