February is for love. Valentine's Day and Galentine's Day, which fall smack dab in the center of the month, make it a time particularly primed for sappiness. And why not? It's rare that we get a marked occasion to shower our loved ones (romantic and platonic alike) with drug-store candy and poorly written poetry.
The latter of the holidays is relatively new, but not to be brushed aside. Finding its origin in a popular sitcom, Galentine's Day is a special way to tell your pals and gals that you appreciate them.
Here's how to celebrate the holiday, and what day it falls on in 2023.
When is Galentine's Day 2023?
Galentine's Day 2023 will be MondayFeb. 13, 2023.
When is Valentine's Day 2023?And why do we celebrate it?
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What is Galentine's Day?
Galentine's Day traces its origins back to an episode of the popular workplace comedy "Parks & Recreation."
Season 2, episode 16 of the series, entitled 'Galentine's Day' sees the show's lead Leslie Knope celebrating the holiday with a group of her girlfriends at a local diner. "What's Galentine's day? Oh it's only the best day of the year," Knope tells cameras.
The pillars of the holiday according to Knope?
- Leavingyour boyfriends and husbands at home
- Kicking it breakfast style (i.e. go grab some waffles or pancakes at a local spot)
- Ladies celebrating ladies
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What is the meaning of Galentine's Day?
Galentine's Day is meant to embody the spirit of Valentine's Day day— all the mushiness and affection— except rather than doling it out to your lover, you dole it out toyour friends.
Shower your pals (gals or not) with love and sappiness. Buy them a box of candy hearts. Write them a poem. Give them a smooch. It's all in the spirit of the holiday!
Just curious?:We're here to help answer life's everyday questions
Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to be single to participate in Galentine's Day. It's not a holiday meant to reflect on loneliness or bash the couples who will celebrate the following day, it's a celebration of close (often female) friendship and of love in all its non-romantic forms.
