Not coupled up on February 14th? Good. That means you get Galentine’s Day.
No forced romance, no overpriced roses, no pretending you enjoy candlelit awkwardness.
Galentine’s Day is about celebrating friendship, chosen family, and the people who actually show up.
And in 2026, it’s not a backup plan. It’s the plan!
💖 What is Galentine’s Day?
Galentine’s Day is celebrated on February 13th, the day before Valentine’s Day.
The concept was popularized by Parks and Recreation, and it quickly turned into a real-world tradition.
The idea is simple: Celebrate your friends. Especially your girlfriends. Especially loudly.
Think brunches, trips, shared experiences, and zero romantic pressure. It’s inclusive, fun, and way less stressful than Valentine’s Day.
🧳 Galentine’s Day getaways
Best for: friend groups who need a reset
A girls’ getaway is one of the best ways to celebrate Galentine’s Day.
Whether it’s a one-night city escape or a weekend trip, traveling together creates memories that last longer than any bouquet.
You don’t need Paris. You need a hotel, good food, late nights, and zero responsibilities.
🍽️ Fine dining with friends
Best for: long dinners and honest conversations
Swap romantic prix-fixe menus for fine dining experiences shared with friends.
Think great food, cocktails, and the kind of conversations that only happen when nobody’s trying to impress a date.
Bonus points if it turns into dessert hopping.
🎭 Broadway shows & live entertainment
Best for: iconic nights out
A Broadway night with friends is elite Galentine’s energy.
Getting dressed up, grabbing drinks before the show, and walking out buzzing from a great performance beats any awkward Valentine’s dinner.
Choose something bold, fun, or nostalgic.
This night is about shared reactions and inside jokes.
🎬 Movie nights that feel like an event
Best for: cozy-but-fun plans
Galentine’s Day doesn’t need heels.
A movie theater experience with popcorn, drinks, and zero guilt is perfect for a relaxed celebration.
Whether you go for rom-coms, thrillers, or comfort movies, the point is sharing the moment.
🎢 Theme parks & playful experiences
Best for: pure fun, no irony
If your group prefers action over brunch, go big.
Theme parks and immersive attractions like:
- Legoland
- DreamWorks
- Nickelodeon Universe
- SEA LIFE Aquarium
- Kennedy Space Center
turn Galentine’s Day into something unexpected and genuinely joyful.
Adrenaline and laughter beat awkward romance every time.
🌆 Sightseeing & iconic NYC moments
Best for: main-character energy
Celebrate friendship with views and pop culture magic.
Classic spots like Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building are perfect for a Galentine’s photo moment.
You can also turn the day into a filming-location walk inspired by:
- Friends
- Gossip Girl
- Sex and the City
- And Just Like That
Because honestly, friendship is the real love story in all of them.
Being single on Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean missing out. It means upgrading.
Galentine’s Day is about choosing joy, laughter, and the people who know you best.
Whether it’s a getaway, a Broadway night, a theme park adventure, or just watching movies together, celebrating friendship in 2026 might be the best Valentine’s decision you make.
