Galentine’s day appears to be another dull trend on social media, but it is far more essential, a societal necessity. It’s a day, usually on the 13 th February, dedicated to celebrating platonic love. Not romance.

It refines the definition of love that society demands from us, emphasising that romantic love is the ultimate reward, the thing that gives life purpose. February can feel aggressively couple centric, and Galentine’s pushes back on that.

Stating that love can be found in different forms, and friendship deserves just as much attention. This day is about choosing to celebrate the people who show up for you outside of romance.

The friends who listen to you go on and on about the same topic. The ones who have your back as you go through significant life changes. Those who have had the pleasure to have known your past self and love your current one. This is not an anti-romance day, it still celebrates love – just differently.

It’s about friends, yes, but also sisters, mothers, and daughters. Because mothers were once like us and this day may help them feel like a part of themselves that they thought was long gone. They too are still someone’s best friend and worthy of celebration. It’s especially beautiful to include them. Also, a sister bond is a love like no other, and deserves to be celebrated on Galentine’s day too.

So how might you celebrate? It doesn’t have to be extravagant. It might be a brunch at a new café you want to try, or a cosy night in with some wine while watching a rom-com marathon.

It could be handmade gifts or flowers exchanged over coffee, or taking part in an activity together such as pottery painting or preparing a meal. Even something as simple as a text letting your friends know that you admire them and are grateful for them is enough, or a quick catch up during the day.

Moments like this tend to make life feel a lot more special and memorable. A reminder that there is platonic love all around you and that romantic love isn’t the only kind of love in life.

It truly is a wonderful thing to celebrate.

Image Credit: Olivia Michalowska