Waffles, Whipped Cream, and Friends: The Perfect Recipe for Galentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day has this uncanny ability to crank up the stress meter and load on expectations, whether you’re happily committed or flying solo. But hold your horses because here comes the rescue mission: Galentine’s Day—the ultimate chill-out celebration for unapologetic friendship vibes!

Wondering what the buzz is about Galentine’s Day? Well, according to Leslie Knope, the heroine of the office-based sitcom Parks and Recreation, it’s simply the hippest day of the year.

“Feb. 13, my friends and I bid farewell to our better halves, and we just lean back, breakfast-style. It’s a party of pals by pals,” she joyfully announced. (Check out Season 2, Episode 16, for the full scoop.)

Knope’s Galentine’s Day was all about brunch, especially waffles—her all-time top pick. And since Galentine’s Day is all about celebrating friendships, there’s plenty of room under the “friends” umbrella to appreciate all sorts of buddies and genders who just want to unwind, breakfast-style.

More than a decade since its birth, Galentine’s Day has become quite the sensation. But here’s the plot twist—its real essence has been somewhat misunderstood. Some folks believe Galentine’s Day is exclusively for single women, some kind of consolation prize for those lacking a traditional Valentine. But let’s get one thing straight—Galentine’s Day is no pity party.

Regardless of your relationship status, this day is purely about expressing how fantastic your friends are. Save the lovey-dovey gestures for the day after.

How to Celebrate Galentine’s Day Sure, there are countless Galentine’s gift guides out there, but there’s no need to break the bank. In that inaugural Galentine’s Day episode, Knope went all out, gifting her crew with handcrafted flower arrangements and lengthy essays singing their praises.

But hey, not everyone has Knope’s overachiever streak. To celebrate, all you really need is some quality time with your pals. However, a simple, budget-friendly, or even freebie gift can add a nice touch. A 5,000-word essay on your friends’ awesomeness? Maybe not. But a note in a card to let them know they’re awesome is totally doable.

Oh, and let’s not forget the brunch. And waffles. Topped with generous dollops of whipped cream. Lots of it!