A day of love. A day of romance. Valentine’s Day, beloved by many, is a holiday meant for love and affection. On February fourteenth, Valentine's Day is celebrated around the world as bouquets are exchanged, reservations are made, and gifts are bought.

Galentine’s Day - Embracing Friendship

Historically, Valentines can be associated with Christian and Ancient Roman Tradition. There are many different stories associated with the origin of Valentine's Day. One story suggests that Saint Valentine fell in love with a young girl while he was imprisoned. It is believed that the young girl, possibly the jailor's daughter, visited him during his time in prison. Saint Valentine sent out the first Valentine as he wrote a love letter to the girl with the expression “From your Valentine.” Since its origin, this Day has been associated with love and romantic gestures.

 

The beauty of Valentine's Day has been preserved since its prehistoric days. Currently, countries all around the world celebrate their own variation of Valentine's Day and the beauty of love in their own way. For example, in Argentina, there is “the week of sweetness;" in Wales, there is the "day of Saint Dwynwen;” in Spain, there is “the Feast of Saint Dionysus,” and so many more.

 

However, the traditional Valentine's Day has also been molded to celebrate other special relationships in addition to romantic ones. Galentine's Day is a day to celebrate girlhood and friendship. It is all about celebrating platonic love and is not limited to just girls. Galentines Day falls on February thirteenth, Valentine’s Day Eve. It can be an exciting day filled with friendship and another reason to plan a special day with your best friends.

 

Galentine’s Day was created by Leslie Knope of Parks and Recreation, a TV show. Ever since then, although not officially a holiday, it is a day that many people recognize and look forward to. It can be celebrated in countless ways and there is no right or wrong way to celebrate. If you are interested in celebrating a Galentine’s Day, you could plan a cute lunch with your friends, have a movie and popcorn night at home, plan a spa day, go on a picnic, or even send your best friends cards and care packages. As long as you are celebrating with people you love and are enjoying yourself, there are no rules.

 

At its core, Galentine’s Day is about celebrating people who are important in your life. As this quote by John Evelyn states, “Friendship is the golden thread that ties the heart of all the world.” With all these upcoming holidays meant for special relationships, remember to spend it with those you love and have fun.