The Meaning behind Valentines and Galentines

The Meaning Behind Valentine’s Day & The Birth of Galentine’s Day

Valentine's Day is a celebration of love, affection, and connection, but have you ever wondered where it all started? How did this romantic holiday become what it is today? And what’s the story behind Galentine’s Day, a modern twist that’s taken off in recent years?

The Origins of Valentine’s Day

Valentine's Day has a rich and somewhat mysterious history, with its roots tracing back to both ancient Roman traditions and Christian customs. One widely accepted origin points to Saint Valentine, a Roman priest who lived during the 3rd century. The Roman Emperor Claudius II had banned marriages for young men, believing that single soldiers fought better than those with families. However, Saint Valentine defied the emperor and secretly married couples. When he was discovered, he was arrested and sentenced to death. It’s said that while in prison, Valentine befriended his jailer’s daughter and sent her a love note signed, “From Your Valentine,” which is believed to be the origin of the tradition of exchanging love notes on February 14.

Valentine’s Day eventually became a day for lovers to exchange tokens of affection, and over the centuries, the holiday evolved into what we know today—filled with heart-shaped cards, flowers, chocolates, and sweet gestures of love.

The Modern Celebrations: Romance and Beyond

In the modern-day, Valentine’s Day has grown beyond romantic love. It’s a day to celebrate all kinds of relationships—from the love we share with friends and family to the self-love that is so crucial to our well-being. It’s a reminder to honor the connections that bring joy and meaning to our lives.

But in recent years, something even more exciting has emerged alongside the traditional romantic celebrations—Galentine’s Day.

The Birth of Galentine’s Day

If you’re not familiar with it, Galentine’s Day is a celebration of female friendship that takes place on February 13th, the day before Valentine’s Day. The idea behind it was popularized by the hit TV show Parks and Recreation, when the character Leslie Knope (played by Amy Poehler) gathered her closest girlfriends to celebrate their friendships over waffles and mimosa. In the episode, she declares, “It's like Lupercalia, but without all the madness.”

Leslie Knope’s Galentine’s Day quickly resonated with women everywhere, as it offered a fun, lighthearted way to celebrate the deep, supportive bonds between friends. The holiday encourages women to come together, uplift each other, and express gratitude for their friendships. It also serves as a reminder that love doesn’t always have to be romantic to be meaningful—it’s the love we share with ourselves and others that shapes us.

Why Galentine's Day Matters

In a world that often places emphasis on romantic relationships, Galentine’s Day serves as an important reminder that friendships are just as powerful, valuable, and worth celebrating. For many, the friendships we share with other women are the foundation of strength, support, and empowerment in our lives. Galentine’s Day celebrates these bonds and allows women to show appreciation for one another, whether through a small gesture, a heartfelt note, or a fun get-together.

Celebrating Love in All Its Forms

At its core, Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day are about connection—whether that’s with a romantic partner, friends, family, or even with yourself. These days provide an opportunity to reflect on the relationships that bring us joy and make us feel valued.

So whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day with your significant other, enjoying a special Galentine’s Day brunch with your besties, or simply taking a moment to honor your own self-worth, remember that love in all its forms deserves to be celebrated. After all, love is the most powerful force in the world, and there’s no better time than now to embrace it.

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Happy Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day to all the women and relationships that make life a little brighter!

Sarah Jayne