Move over Valentine’s Day—February 13th is the real MVP. It’s Galentine’s Day, a day to celebrate your ride-or-die crew, your support system, and your besties who are always there for you, whether you’re venting about life or sending TikToks at midnight. Created by the iconic Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day is all about love and appreciation for your friends. If you want to make this Galentine’s Day one for the books, here are 8 fun ways to celebrate your favorite people:
Host a Waffle-Fueled Brunch Party
Photo by Alexandra Tran on UnsplashCan you even call it Galentine’s Day without waffles? Channel your inner Leslie Knope and go all out with a DIY waffle bar. Bring on the toppings: berries, Nutella, whipped cream, chocolate chips—the works. Add some mimosas (or a creative mocktail if you’re keeping it chill), and you’ve got a party. Want to level it up? Make it a themed brunch. Have everyone show up in PJs, 90s throwback outfits, or even dress as their favorite female icons. Waffles + costumes = a Galentine’s Day masterpiece.
Turn Your Living Room into a Spa
Photo by Isi Parente on UnsplashSelf-care is always a good idea, and what better way to bond with your friends than a DIY spa day? Set up stations for face masks, mani-pedis, and foot soaks. You can even get fancy and make homemade scrubs together—brown sugar and coconut oil work wonders. Light some candles, play a calming playlist, and boom, you’ve got a spa without the steep price tag. Bonus: no one will judge you for eating snacks while wearing a sheet mask.
Get Crafty with a Creative Workshop
Photo by Dushawn Jovic on UnsplashWho needs store-bought gifts when you can make something unique with your besties? Plan a paint-and-sip night (no judgment if your "masterpieces" look like a five-year-old painted them), or try something different like making candles, arranging flowers, or creating vision boards. Not only will you have a blast, but you’ll leave with something special to remember the day. Plus, nothing bonds friends quite like laughing at how bad your crafts turn out.
Cook, Eat, Repeat
Photo by Jason Briscoe on UnsplashNothing brings people together like food. Turn your kitchen into a mini cooking school and tackle a new recipe as a group—maybe sushi, tacos, or homemade pasta. If cooking sounds like too much effort, go for a potluck with a twist. Have each person bring a dish inspired by their favorite movie, book, or childhood memory. And for dessert? Chocolate fondue. Because dipping things in chocolate is basically a love language.
Take the Party Outside
Photo by Jojo Yuen (sharemyfoodd) on UnsplashIf the weather’s nice, why not take Galentine’s Day into the great outdoors? Pack up a picnic with all the heart-shaped snacks you can think of, grab a speaker for some tunes, and head to a local park. Want to up the adventure factor? Plan a hike or bike ride and soak up some fresh air. You’ll feel like you’re starring in your own Instagram-worthy outdoorsy friendship montage.
Movie Marathon, But Make It Cozy
Photo by Thibault Penin on UnsplashIf staying in sounds more like your vibe, gather your gals for the ultimate movie night. Pick a lineup of feel-good classics and create a cozy viewing setup with blankets, pillows, and fairy lights. And let’s talk snacks—popcorn with fun toppings, a candy buffet, and some themed cocktails/mocktails will take your movie night from basic to iconic.
Swap Your Favorite Things
Photo by Kateryna Hliznitsova on UnsplashWant to turn gift-giving into a full-on event? Host a "favorite things" swap. Here’s how it works: everyone brings a few small items they love—think books, skincare products, candles, or snacks. Then, you take turns picking and swapping. It’s like Secret Santa, but better because there’s no holiday stress, and you get to share the things you love with your friends. You’ll leave with cool new stuff and maybe a newfound obsession with your bestie’s favorite lip balm.
Strike a Pose with a Group Photoshoot
Photo by Joel Muniz on UnsplashCapture the magic of Galentine’s Day with a fun photoshoot. Whether you hire a photographer or just use your phone and a tripod, it’s all about having fun. Pick a theme (glam, boho, Y2K—whatever fits your group’s vibe), bring some props, and get creative. These photos will be the perfect keepsake to look back on and remember just how much fun you all had. Plus, it’s a great excuse to get dressed up and reconnect with that inner child in you who loved to dress up with your friends.
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