Valentine's Day vs Galentine's Day: What's the Difference and Which One Wins?

February is the month of love — but these days, it’s not just about romantic love. Alongside the classic Valentine’s Day celebrations, Galentine’s Day has become one of the fastest-growing gifting trends of the year.

From romantic Valentine’s gift hampers to friendship-fuelled Galentine’s hampers packed with treats, the question is no longer what should I buy? — it’s who am I celebrating?

So where did Galentine’s Day come from, how is it different from Valentine’s Day, and which one do people actually prefer? Let’s unwrap it.

What Is Valentine’s Day?

Valentine’s Day is traditionally a celebration of romantic love. It’s the day of red roses, heart-shaped chocolates, candlelit dinners, and cheesy cards that may or may not perfectly express how you feel.

For couples, Valentine’s Day is a chance to pause, reconnect, and spoil each other. For others, it can feel a little… intense.

And that’s exactly why Galentine’s Day exists.

What Is Galentine’s Day and Where Did It Come From?

Galentine’s Day is actually celebrated on 13th February, the day before Valentine’s Day, and focuses on friendship rather than romantic love.

It originated in 2010 from the TV show Parks and Recreation, when the character Leslie Knope declared it a day for ‘ladies celebrating ladies.’ What started as a fictional brunch quickly went crazy and became a real-world trend.

Today, Galentine’s Day is about:

• Celebrating friendships
• Showing appreciation for the people who support you
• Removing the pressure that often comes with Valentine’s Day

It’s inclusive, light-hearted, and increasingly popular with people of all relationship statuses.

Valentine’s Day vs Galentine’s Day: Key Differences

While both days celebrate love, the type of love, and the expectations, are very different.

Valentine’s Day

• Romantic and couple-focused
• Often involves one main gift
• Can feel high-pressure
• Traditional gifting styles

Galentine’s Day

• Friendship-focused and inclusive
• Often involves group celebrations
• Low-pressure and fun
• Creative, shareable gift ideas

This shift has had a big impact on gifting trends, especially when it comes to hampers.

Why Gift Hampers Are Perfect for Both Valentine’s and Galentine’s Day

One of the biggest reasons Galentine’s Day has grown so quickly is because it pairs perfectly with gift hampers.

Unlike single-item gifts, hampers feel:

• Thoughtful but relaxed
• Indulgent without being overwhelming
• Easy to personalise

For Valentine’s Day, a romantic gift hamper might include chocolates, candles, and luxury treats. For Galentine’s Day, hampers tend to be more playful, including snacks, pamper items, and everything that screams self-love!

Which One Is More Popular?

Galentine’s Day is rapidly gaining popularity, especially among younger shoppers and those looking for alternative Valentine’s gift ideas.

However, it’s not a case of one replacing the other.

Many people now celebrate:

Galentine’s Day with friends AND Valentine’s Day with a partner, Or Galentine’s Day instead of Valentine’s Day

The modern approach to February gifting is flexible, inclusive, and far less rigid than it used to be.

Why Galentine’s Day Feels So Relevant Right Now

Galentine’s Day reflects how people live today. Friendships are celebrated more openly, chosen family matters just as much as romantic relationships, and gifting is less about obligation and more about connection.

It’s also a chance to celebrate yourself, thank the people who show up all year and enjoy February without pressure.

And let’s be honest…celebrating with friends, snacks, and a great hamper is rarely a bad idea.

Valentine’s or Galentine’s: The Final Verdict

The truth is, there doesn’t have to be a winner.

Valentine’s Day celebrates romantic love. Galentine’s Day celebrates friendship. Both deserve good gifts, good food, and a little indulgence.

Whether you’re choosing a Valentine’s gift hamper, a Galentine’s gift hamper, or both (highly encouraged), the most important thing is celebrating the people who make life sweeter.

And if that celebration comes in the form of a beautifully packed hamper full of treats? Even better!

Happy Valentines, and an even happier Galentines!

Love,

Emily – Founder @ Hampartistry