Galentine's Day

Celebrated on 02/13/2026

Quick Fact

Galentine's Day was coined by Leslie Knope on the NBC show 'Parks and Recreation' in 2010. The holiday is celebrated on February 13th, the day before Valentine's Day, and is dedicated to celebrating female friendships.

Origins and Establishment of Galentine's Day

Galentine's Day was first introduced in the Season 2 episode "Galentine's Day" of the NBC comedy series Parks and Recreation, which aired on February 11, 2010. In the episode, the character Leslie Knope (played by Amy Poehler) declares February 13th as Galentine's Day, a holiday for women to celebrate their female friends by having brunch and giving gifts. The concept quickly resonated with viewers, and the term "Galentine's Day" entered popular culture.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its television debut, Galentine's Day has evolved from a fictional holiday into a real-world celebration. It is now widely observed on February 13th, with women gathering for brunches, parties, and other activities to honor their friendships. Many businesses, including restaurants and retailers, have embraced the holiday by offering special promotions and events. Social media has also played a key role in its spread, with the hashtag #GalentinesDay trending annually. The holiday has been credited with shifting focus from romantic love to platonic female bonds.

Facts & General Observations

• Galentine's Day has been celebrated by millions since its inception, with Google searches for the term increasing by over 200% in the years following the episode.
• A 2019 survey by the National Retail Federation found that 51% of Americans celebrate Galentine's Day, spending an average of $27 on gifts for friends.
• The holiday has inspired real-world events, such as the annual "Galentine's Day Brunch" hosted by the city of Pawnee, Indiana (where the show is set) since 2014.

Explore more celebrations, trivia, and quests on National Day Quest.