As the Spice Girls famously sang in their 1996 debut single ‘Wannabe’, “friendship never ends”. And as we approach Valentine’s Day this year, it’s important to note the relationships we have with our nearest and dearest friends deserve to be celebrated just as much as the one we have with our partner. So, in recent years, a day for friendship, Palentine’s, has been cemented in the holiday calendar.
Celebrated annually the day prior to Valentine’s Day on the 13th of February, Palentine’s Day, or Galentine’s Day when specifically celebrating female friendships, is a global day to honour the affection and platonic love we share with our closest friends. Created initially as a humorous alternative to Valentine’s, it has become a day for friends to share gifts, spend time with each other and demonstrate acts of kindness.
There are many activities you can enjoy with friends to honour your relationships and bond.
If you are wanting to do something fun on a budget, you can host a games night. Dust off those board games and plug in those consoles for an evening of friendly competition.
Alternatively, there are social activities that can be attended away from home such as bowling, crazy golf, go-karting, and entertaining escape room challenges.
Why not get your hands dirty with some arts and crafts? Painting, clay making or even some simple origami are all great ways to get creative. You will all end the evening with a unique keepsake from your time together too.
Looking to showcase your singing skills? Warm up those vocal cords and fire up the karaoke machine. You can even hold your very own karaoke competition, voting for your favourite singer and the friend with the best song choice.
If you’re looking at hosting a more formal evening, why not throw a dinner party?
Give the night a special theme and get your guests involved. As host you can cook and prepare some of your friends’ favourite dishes and dress the room to wow. We have some great ideas on how to transform your home for an evening of fine dining here.
Alternatively, if you’re wanting a chilled, relaxed night, a movie marathon never fails. Plate up some tasty snacks and stick on your favourite flicks for a fun evening together. Palentine’s is also an ideal time for some self-care. A pamper night with some scented candles, face masks and a playlist full of all your favourite hits is the perfect way to unwind with your pals.
It’s not just the adults that can have all the fun. There are ways to extend your celebrations to the little ones in your family too. Better yet, have them host their own Palentine’s Party. A movie night, karaoke, or an afternoon of arts and crafts is also a perfect way for children and young adults to learn that friendship should be cherished and celebrated.
You can even allow friends to sleep over for the night and host a slumber party full of leisurely activities. Did someone say pillow fight? Vision have got you covered!
Whoever with and however you choose to celebrate this holiday, don’t forget to take pictures, and make memories you can share forever.