Valentine’s Day might be all about romance, but let’s be honest—sometimes it’s just an excuse for overpriced dinners and unrealistic expectations.
Enter Galentine’s Day, the true highlight of February. It’s a day where friendships take centre stage, where the only heartbreak comes from laughing too hard, and where love is measured in the number of waffles consumed.
What Is Galentine’s Day?
Galentine’s Day is celebrated on February 13th, dedicated to honouring friendships—particularly among women.
It’s a day to gather your besties, shower each other with appreciation, and revel in the kind of love that doesn’t ghost you.
Unlike Valentine’s Day, which traditionally focuses on romance, Galentine’s Day is about platonic appreciation, ensuring that best friends, sisters, and colleagues feel just as cherished.
The Origin of Galentine’s Day
The term was coined in a 2010 episode of Parks and Recreation when Leslie Knope (played by Amy Poehler) described it as “only the best day of the year”—a time for “ladies celebrating ladies” over brunch, waffles, and heartfelt appreciation.
What started as a fictional tradition quickly became a real-world phenomenon, proving that friendships deserve just as much attention as romance.
Forget the same old brunch. This year, we’re taking Galentine’s Day to another level.
Every February 13th, the world (read: social media) is flooded with mimosa-filled brunches and pastel-themed parties.
But let’s be honest, basic is overdone. If you’re going to celebrate your besties, do it right.
Whether you’re planning an all-out bash or keeping it low-key, here are the Galentine’s Day ideas that will have everyone talking (and Instagramming) long after the last glass of prosecco is poured.
1. Nostalgia Night: A 2000s Sleepover With a Twist
You know what hits different? A throwback sleepover with all the trappings of your childhood.
- DIY face masks (bonus points if you go full Y2K and make peel-off glitter masks).
- Popcorn and a chick-flick marathon featuring Legally Blonde, Mean Girls, and The Princess Diaries.
- Friendship bracelet station, but make it personalised—each guest picks a name out of a jar and crafts a bracelet for that person (a Reddit-approved idea).
- A secret-sharing game that’s essentially “Truth or Dare,” but grown-up.
2. Luxe High Tea, But Make It Chaotic
High tea sounds elegant, but let’s not pretend we’re prim and proper.
- Think assorted finger sandwiches, scones, and over-the-top desserts.
- Everyone gets a dramatic hat or gloves (the tackier, the better).
- Swap the tea for spiked Earl Grey martinis.
- Play a game of Who’s Most Likely To… but make it scandalous.
3. Themed Dinner Party—Because Regular Dining Is Boring
A dinner party is fine, but a themed dinner party? Unmatched.
- Goddess Party: Channel your inner deity with flowy outfits and a decadent Greek-inspired feast.
- Murder Mystery Night: Glam up, assign characters, and solve a (fictional) crime over cocktails.
- Rom-com Come to Life: Everyone dresses as a character from their favourite romantic comedy.
Pro tip: A themed menu is non-negotiable.
4. A Little Bit of Chaos: DIY Bar Crawl (At Home)
Going out is overrated, so bring the bar to you.
- Each guest hosts a “bar stop” featuring their signature cocktail.
- Everyone ranks the drinks, and the winner gets an honorary title (“Galentine’s Bartender Extraordinaire”).
- Add a drinking Jenga element where each block has a fun rule (“speak in a British accent until your next turn”).
5. Over-the-Top Craft Party (Because You Deserve the Aesthetic Life)
Yes, we’re going full Pinterest here.
- DIY candle-making station (think bougie scents like vanilla chai and eucalyptus).
- Decorate your own mini cakes (inspired by vintage bakery aesthetics).
- Affirmation jar crafting—everyone writes anonymous uplifting messages for their friends to take home.
6. The Ultimate Charcuterie Showdown
Why settle for one cheese board when you can have a full-on charcuterie competition?
- Categories: Classic cheese & meats, Dessert board, Brunch-style, Weirdest ingredients that somehow work together.
- Guests vote anonymously; the winner gets a Golden Cheese Knife Trophy (or, you know, just bragging rights).
7. A Social Media-Worthy Selfie Station
No one leaves without a photoshoot.
- DIY backdrop with pink curtains, fairy lights, and heart-shaped balloons.
- Props galore: heart-shaped sunglasses, feather boas, and cheesy (in the best way) love-themed signs.
- Instant film camera so everyone gets a tangible memory.
8. Brunch, But Make It Extra
If you must do brunch, at least go all out.
- Instead of the usual, opt for a breakfast charcuterie board (think mini pancakes, berries, Nutella, whipped cream).
- Mimosa bar with unique mixers (guava, blood orange, elderflower).
- Set a dress code: everyone must wear a monochrome pink outfit.
How to Make Your Galentine’s Day Unforgettable
Whatever you do, make it personal, make it fun, and make sure no one leaves without a good story.
Whether it’s getting deep with affirmation jars, embarrassing yourselves in karaoke, or competing in the Great Charcuterie Showdown, Galentine’s Day is about celebrating the people who make your life better.
Now go forth and plan a party that’s anything but basic.