“Gather Your Girls: The Official Fab 5 Field Notes on Galentine’s Day”

Galentine’s Day is almost here, and if you’re wondering what on earth that is, let me enlighten you. It started as a joke on Parks and Recreation and has since become a full‑blown holiday — February 13th, the sacred day of celebrating female friendship. It’s basically Valentine’s Day without the pressure, the prix‑fixe menus, or the existential dread. Just women supporting women, laughing until we snort, and having fun because we deserve it.

And the world has noticed. Retailers, restaurants, and every marketing team with a pulse have jumped on the Galentine’s train. Last year, my dinner club — the Fab 5 — went to an event that had everything: a make‑your‑own bouquet bar (where we all pretended we were on The Bachelor), signature cocktails, a tarot reader who told us exactly what we wanted to hear, an author signing her book, women‑run pop‑ups, mini tattoos, photo booths, Botox stations, and food that made us forget our New Year’s resolutions. We had such a blast that we already snagged VIP tickets for this year. Yes, VIP. We’re basically Galentine’s royalty at this point.

But here’s the thing: not everyone loves Valentine’s Day, and Galentine’s Day is a fabulous alternative. And if you don’t have a group to celebrate with yet, that doesn’t mean you’re destined to spend the evening alone with a heart‑shaped pizza. There are so many women out there looking for connection — you could be the one who brings a new circle together. There are meet‑ups for single women, hobby groups, and local events where you might just find your person. And don’t sleep on your work girls; sometimes the best friendships are forged in the break room over stale donuts and shared trauma.

If your friends are long‑distance, go virtual: schedule a FaceTime date, send each other a little surprise, and open them together like a low‑budget unboxing video. And if this year is all about you? Treat. Yo’. Self. Buy the flowers. Order the good dinner. Splurge on the jewelry you’ve been eyeing. Be your own Galentine — because honestly, you’re excellent company.