Photo courtesy of Jill Wellington, Pexels.
“February 14, Valentine’s Day, is about romance, but February 13, Galentine's Day, is about celebrating lady friends. It’s wonderful, and it should be a national holiday," says Leslie Knope, the loveable main character of NBC's hit comedy “Parks and Recreation.”
While Galentine's Day still has not been considered a national holiday, it's safe to say Knope's wish has come true. Since the show's premiere, Galentine's Day has become recognized by more than just fans of “Parks and Recreation.” Popular stores like Target have Galentine's Day products alongside their Valentine's Day products.
With Covid cases on the rise, it might be hard for your group to go out, but that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of ways to celebrate from home either on or before Feb. 13.
Here are some suggestions that are guaranteed to make this Galentine's Day memorable for you and your best friends.
Have a craft night
Get your group together, head over to your local craft store and make something together. Whether it’s painting, scrapbooking, jewelry making or even making vision boards, making something special with your friend group is perfect for bonding and will leave you with something way more special than any mass-produced product.
Cook a meal together
Whether it's an old family recipe, the newest aesthetically-pleasing trend on TikTok or something you made up on the spot, getting together to cook a homemade meal is always a good time. Maybe challenge yourselves to only buy ingredients from farmers' markets and your local grocery stores.
Order take-out
While cooking food is fun for some, sometimes you just want to have a delicious meal without needing to deal with dishes after, and that's okay! Order different dishes from different restaurants or get everything from the same place. Make sure to support your local eateries.
At-home spa day
Who doesn't love a relaxing day at the spa? While you can easily go to your local pharmacy and buy a face mask, try making your own. There are plenty of easy recipes on Pinterest and YouTube. Play some relaxing music and enjoy some self-care with your best friends.
Movie night
With so many streaming services to choose from, a movie night is a perfect way to spend this Galentine's Day. If you and your friends don’t want to meet in person, don't worry. Amazon, Hulu and Disney Plus allow you to host a watch party. Get together and enjoy some of your favorite flicks.
Game night
There is so much to choose from: board games, card games and video games! A fun and friendly game night is the perfect way to wind down and have a good time. Make sure to keep it fun and not worry about who's winning or losing.
Sleepover
A good old-fashioned sleepover is a great way to spend this Galentine's Day. You can even combine all of the previous suggestions into one fun night. Get some matching pajamas too and have a photoshoot!
Watch the Superbowl!
This year Galentine's day falls on Superbowl Sunday! Gather your gals for wings and appetizers with the game on, or tune in just for the halftime show if that's more your vibe.
When planning and getting together, make sure to get tested before seeing your friends and watch for COVID symptoms. Have fun and stay safe this Galentine's Day!
dgohde@ramapo.edu
