Styled by Susie Theodorou

Everything You Need to Host a Galentine’s Day Party

Coined by fictitious local politician Leslie Knope on NBC’s Parks and Recreation, “Galentine’s Day” is definitely worth celebrating: On February 13th, we plan to honor and celebrate our gals (or if your bestie happens to be a guy, bring him too—the more the merrier!) The power of these platonic relationships is no joke, it should be noted: NYT contributor Rebecca Traister’s 2016 article, “What Women Find in Friends That They May Not Get From Love” sheds light on the unique and irreplaceable bond that women forge with one another.

Traister observed that there are no official ceremonies that recognize these important, life-affirming, often lifelong relationships; enter Leslie Knope’s brilliant brainchild. This Galentine’s Day, grab the Thelma to your Louise, the Laverne to your Shirley, and the Elijah to your Hannah and treat yourselves to blush-colored “bloodhounds,” decadent lasagna, and the most adorable ice-cream sandwiches on earth. Along with the recipes, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite BFF-centric flicks, along with a few excellent parting gifts to show some love to your true ride-or-dies.