What’s something that happens once every year that people either adore or dread? Valentine’s Day! The iconic day is commonly loved–or loathed– by millions of people worldwide, but, most notably, it is a holiday that is only celebrated by those who are in a romantic relationship. Over the years, a different and more inclusive holiday has become popularized: Galentine’s Day!
So, this poses the question: what is Galentine’s Day, and why should more people celebrate it? The Hiller staff is here to voice their opinion on the matter!
Traditionally, Valentine’s Day is celebrated with a significant other by giving gifts, going on dates and spending quality time together. The problem is, there are a ton of people who want to spread love during February that aren’t in a relationship. The solution to this issue comes in the form of Galentine’s Day.
The relatively new international holiday is celebrated the day before Valentine’s Day on February 13 and usually involves women getting together with their friends to commemorate their friendships.
According to Sports Editor Charlotte Magon, Galentine’s Day is all about dressing up in a cute, festive outfit, going out with friends and celebrating self-love.
As the day becomes increasingly popular, it encourages women and people in general to realize that they don’t have to be in a committed relationship to be happy. Instead, Galentine’s Day focuses on friendships and uplifting people rather than pressuring them into feeling like they need to have a significant other.
“I think that self-empowerment, being kind to yourself and realizing your own self-worth is being normalized, especially in younger generations. People are becoming less focused on just being in a relationship for Valentine’s Day and instead hanging out with friends and appreciating platonic love,” Staff Writer Cameron Street comments on why the new holiday has become popular.
It’s no secret that Valentine’s Day traditions can feel isolating for various reasons, such as coming out of a relationship before February 14 or never having been in a relationship in the first place. Because of this, many tend to feel especially down on Valentine’s Day. This is what makes Galentine’s Day such a special holiday because instead of rushing into a relationship for only one day, people can simply hang out with friends and have a casual party to celebrate the love they have for their friendships as well as themselves.
Staff Writer Cadi Wright adds, “Galentine’s Day is growing in popularity because women are seeing the beauty in loving themselves and supporting other women. Valentine’s Day forces women to think that they need to be in a relationship in order to be happy and enjoy February 14th when, in reality, you just need yourself and your friends.”
This Valentine’s Day, don’t feel pressured to be in a relationship. Instead, try to connect with close friends and commemorate self-love. Happy love day!
