Valentine’s Day may be known now as a holiday colored with pink and red, drowned in stuffed animals and chocolate, but the origin comes from the legend of St. Valentine, with the romance only becoming more associated with the day due to the 18th century poets. While some debate whether Valentine’s Day is a genuine holiday or just a commercial event for businesses to profit from, there’s no denying its global popularity as a celebration of love.
For those with partners to celebrate it with, this day brings about a lot of happiness and affection. However, for those who don’t, it can feel stressful or even a little depressing. The external pressure of the holiday can make people feel like they are missing out by not having someone special to share their time with on a day universally dedicated to love. However, being in a relationship with someone isn’t the only way to appreciate this day of love and find joy in the holiday.
Love comes in many forms, and even if you’re not celebrating romantically, there are still plenty of ways to embrace the holiday. One very popular way for women is to celebrate it as “Galentine’s Day”, a day to celebrate female friendships. “I hang out with my friends and we have dinner and a party,” shared senior Anna Colavecchio. These Valentine’s Day themed get-togethers and parties provide a fun way to come together and celebrate for people. “When I was single during Valentine’s Day, I used to do things I enjoyed—hanging out with friends, playing with my dogs, doing crafts with my little sister, and playing hockey,” expressed freshman Mor-gan Hendler.
Another very important form of love is self love. Freshman, Saniya Dixon, stated, “once I’m remind-ed it’s Valentine’s Day, I take care of myself and do a little self care. I make myself feel good, cause I don’t need no man.” Many singles celebrate Valentine’s Day by indulging in treats like the heart shaped Brownie Batter Specialty Donuts in Dunkin, or Papa John’s Heart Shaped Pizzas. Even on campus, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday, such as buying Valentine’s special chocolates, sweets or teddy bears in the Campus Store. Be on the lookout for the various Valentine’s Day themed events happening across campus such as Valentine’s Day Cookie Decorating with the German Club and Valentine Making at Messa House and don’t forget to get free roses, cards and chocolates at Reamer during common hours.
Whether you are in a relationship with someone or not, make sure you take time to celebrate this upcoming Valentine’s Day for what it truly is—a celebration of all the love in your life, no matter what shape or form it comes in. You don’t need a date to enjoy the day; simply get together with a few friends you love to spend time with or have a much needed self-care day after finally finishing your midterms.
