Gaelentines, Not Valentine’s

     For most, Valentine's Day 2026 is going to be just another Saturday, or a day full of dread about being single, and a reminder that your trash boyfriend forgot about the holiday until you reminded him 2 days before. And of course, who can forget the sad heart-shaped boxes of chocolate? You either get a decent Reese's knockoff or something that tastes like cough medicine. Personally, I prefer a day that is actually enjoyable. I give you Galentines Day!

     A day spent celebrating the real loves of your life, your friends. No pressure, no awkward dates, no overpriced flowers that will die in 2 days, just good vibes and the people who actually answer your texts. Galentine's Day is typically celebrated on February 13, but unlike Valentine's Day, it's not locked into one specific day. People throw themed dinner parties, host movie marathons, have sleepovers with matching pjs, exchange cute gifts, or simply get together and spill every detail of their current situationships and drama.  

     And let's be honest, what Valentine's Day looks like today is a little… disappointing. The holiday has become overly commercialized. With the candy, red dye 40, everything, and cheap stuffed animals that will 100% not last till next year. It’s less about connection and more about buying the biggest, most expensive teddy bear.

     So how is Galentine's any different? Galentine’s Day is about platonic appreciation and loving your friends. It's not about grand gestures; it's about laughing until you cry and celebrating the friendships that have survived breakups, bad decisions, and debates at 2 am while you wait to text your ex.

     In a nutshell, Galentine’s Day is an excuse to dress up for no reason, make fun of your exes, make fun scream, cry to Phoebe Bridgers, and remind your friends that they are stuck with you forever. The novelty of Valentine's Day really wears off once you realize that it's not a great idea only to show that you care about your loved one, only one day of the year, and then give no effort the rest of it, and if you ask me, it sounds way better than a half- melted box of chocolates.