In high school communities like NDB, friendships are deeply valued. For many, setting aside time to celebrate these connections through informal gatherings becomes a cherished tradition. While Valentine’s Day traditionally highlights romantic relationships, more students are embracing a celebration that centers on platonic love and friendship.
Many students at NDB celebrate Galentines, a lighthearted tradition in which friends gather to exchange gifts, share laughter and strengthen their bonds. These gatherings create an opportunity for students to spend quality time together and show appreciation for one another in a special way.
“I first heard about Galentines from someone in my elementary class. I hadn’t done it before so it was super cool to hear about it. The fact that it is special just for bonding with your friends really resonated with me,” explained freshman Magnolia Singh. “Now me and my friends love to get together and bake yummy snacks and watch Valentine’s movies.”
At an all-girls school like NDB, these celebrations hold even more significance. In this environment, students are able to highlight the strength and importance of female bonds without feeling overshadowed by societal pressures about relationships.
Sophomore Beatrix Bakken shared, “I think it’s really important for girls to have camaraderie, friendship and sisterhood because it makes them realize that their love doesn’t have to be romantic to be meaningful.”
What makes Galentine’s distinctly memorable are the personal moments shared along the way. From decorating the house to baking sweet treats, these little things create lasting memories. For many students, these are the moments they’ll treasure most.
“For Valentine’s Day, we all brought a little like goodie bags for each other. Um, and they were, like, pink and red, and they were really cute, and we gave each other little cards,” said Bakken.
Galentine’s serves as a powerful reminder of the value of friendship, especially in an environment like NDB, where women are encouraged to uplift each other. By celebrating these relationships, students contribute to an atmosphere full of kindness and empowerment that continues to shape their high school experience and beyond.
