It’s that time of the year again, when the weather is still crap and the supermarkets are full of heart-shaped chocolate boxes, massive toy bears and over-priced bouquets. While it certainly can come across as a cheesy capitalist-driven and rather heteronormative holiday, Valentine’s can actually have a good message.
When we strip back all the ribbons, bows and teddy bears, Valentine’s is really a holiday about spreading some love, and if there is anything we need right now it’s a bit of love and support. “Galentine’s Day” is an unofficial holiday on 13 February, and is all about having a Valentine’s with your mates. Popularised in the show Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day gives us an excuse to appreciate your friends.
Whether you live with your pals or see them virtually, I think Galentine’s – or Valentine’s – is reason enough to spend some time together. And don’t be fooled by the “Gal”: this unofficial holiday is inclusive, so appreciate all your friends no matter their gender. I’ve had a flood of ads on my feed promoting Galentine’s care packages to send to your mates, and Galentine’s cards so you can tell them you love ‘em. But you don’t have to spend any money, engaging in the ideas of Galentine’s can be from a quick text or call, all the way to virtual drinks nights or movie nights if you’re in the same household.
So whether you have a significant other or not, there’s no reason not to use this weekend to celebrate love (as cheesy as it sounds) and tell your mates you appreciate them, and hey, at least there will be loads of chocolate on sale next week.