Where did Galentine’s Day come from and how did it start?
AMY Poehler's character in the beloved show Parks & Recreation turned a sitcom word into a worldwide celebration.
Galentine's Day is celebrated February 13 - the day before Valentine's Day - celebrating female friendship and those special friends you have in your life.
Where did Galentine's Day come from?
The term was initially coined by Amy Poehler's character Leslie Knope on the American series, Parks and Recreation.
Suddenly, what started as a sitcom joke, became a powerful buzzword that swept the internet and united women all over the world.
In the series, Leslie Knope defines Galentine's Day as "the best day of the year" - the day when she and her friends leave their husbands and boyfriends at home to celebrate "lady love" over a boozy brunch.
The best thing about this celebration is that it's not quite the anti-Valentine's Day (no bitter tears here), it's a happy holiday all about appreciating females and friendships.
That is why it falls the day before February 14th - because boys come and go, but friends are forever.
How to plan the perfect girls' night in:
So whether you'll be doing it as a singleton or you're lucky enough to celebrate both, make sure you appreciate your besties this year with an appropriate celebration.
Those pre-teen-type slumber parties that are jam-packed with girly goodies like face masks and friendship bracelets are the best way to go since at this age, you can make it all the more fun with a bit of booze - pink prosecco, yes, please!
Whether you're heading out on the town after or settling in for a movie screening filled with popcorn, here's everything you need to plan the perfect girl's night in:
1. Decorate
All the things you try to avoid when celebrating with a partner? Now is the time to embrace them! Go all out with bunting, balloons, heart-shaped sequins, and light-up neon love lamps.
2. Get cozy
No slumber party is complete without cute pajamas so be sure to grab some matching pairs with your besties. Pink and red make it even more festive!
3. Love yourself
Pamper party! Unleash your inner child with face masks, at-home nail kits, and sliced cucumbers for the eyes.
4. Treat yourself
Sweet treats are a must. For some wholesome fun try baking heart-shaped cookies together or for something slightly naughtier, enjoy some boozy desserts like alcohol-laced lollipops or ice cream.
5. Give Gifts
Why should gift-giving be limited to couples? Show your friends how much you love them with a Galentine's Day card to their favorite store or invest in a couple of grown-up friendship bracelets.
6. Chick-flicks. Chick-flicks. Chick-flicks.
Now is the time for overkill on the films he'll never agree to watch. Opt for pictures that celebrate strong women and cram as many in as you can! Sign up for a streaming service to cut costs.
What are the best Galentine's Day films?
If movie suggestions are what you seek, then look no further. Here is a list of some of the best films for you and your besties to enjoy this February 13th:
- Sex & the City (show or movies)
Pretty Woman (1990)
Clueless (1995)
Miss Congeniality (2000)
Legally Blonde (2001)
- Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)
The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
Someone Great (2019)
Hustlers (2019)
And of course, if you are looking to rewatch the iconic Parks and Recreation episode that started it all, then make sure to tune into the show's season 2, episode 16.