GALENTINE’S DAY, MILITARY STYLE: CELEBRATING FRIENDSHIP ACROSS ANY DISTANCE
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One of the very best parts of military life? The friendships you build with other military spouses. These aren’t just casual friendships—they’re chosen family. They’re the people who endure deployments alongside you, explore new-to-you cities (and even countries) with you, and raise children shoulder to shoulder. They may have become your emergency contact for school the same week you met—and they’ve seen you at your very best… and absolute worst. And then comes one of the hardest parts about military life: saying “see you later” to the people who know you better than most.
You may be separated by states— or even oceans—but those friendships don’t disappear. And they still deserve to be celebrated.
Enter Galentine’s Day. Typically celebrated on February 13th, the unofficial holiday was made famous in 2010 by the popular TV show Parks and Recreation, when fictional character Leslie Knope hosted a brunch to celebrate the women in her life. More than fifteen years later, women everywhere have embraced Galentine’s Day as the perfect excuse to gather, connect, pour a little something bubbly, and toast to friendship.
But if you’ve recently PCS’d, left behind your favorite “emergency contacts,” or haven’t quite found your new tribe yet—don’t worry. You can still get in on the Galentine’s fun, even from afar. Here are a few meaningful (and fun) ways to celebrate with your people, no matter where you (or they!) are stationed.
Virtual Wine & Chocolate Pairing
Is it really Valentine’s season without chocolate? Take things up a notch with a virtual wine and chocolate pairing.
Set a time for a video call, get dressed up if you’re feeling fancy (or stay cozy—your call), and indulge together.
You can purchase pre-made wine and chocolate pairing kits online, or you can just create your own.
A few delicious combinations to try:
- Champagne or Prosecco & milk chocolate-covered strawberries
- Chardonnay & white chocolate
- Sauvignon Blanc & citrus-infused white chocolate
- Pinot Noir & chocolate caramels
- Shiraz & chocolate mints
- Cabernet Sauvignon & dark chocolate cherry truffles
- Red Zinfandel & dark chocolate
Take a few notes as you taste, then go around and share your favorites.
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Long-Distance Movie Night
Throw on your coziest PJs, pop some popcorn, pick out a delightfully cheesy rom-com, and press play at the same time. You’ll watch together over FaceTime or Zoom, laughing, crying, and commenting in real-time—just like you used to on a couch in base housing.
Social Spa Day
Light a candle, pour a glass of something festive, and hop on a video call for a DIY spa day.
Try a new face mask, deep conditioning hair treatment, or bold nail color while catching up on life. It’s low pressure, relaxing, and the kind of self-care military spouses rarely make time for.
Create Your Own Floral Arrangement
Who needs red roses from a Valentine when you can design your own bouquet? Especially when there’s a good chance your Valentine is deployed or TDY anyway. Right?!
Many florists now offer virtual floral arranging parties, complete with supplies shipped directly to participants ahead of time. You’ll end the night with a gorgeous arrangement and quality time with friends.
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Mahjong Mania
Has the Mahjong craze hit your friend group? Good news—you don’t need a card, tables, or physical tiles to play. Several online platforms let you play together virtually, and yes, bragging rights absolutely still count.
Digital Drinks
Shake up a festive pink cocktail (or mocktail) with a virtual mixology class. You can book a professional class online, order ingredient kits, or simply send everyone a shopping list and have one friend lead the way. Cheers!
One of the best parts about a virtual Galentine’s celebration? You can invite friends from all over the globe, from Japan to Washington D.C. to Germany. It’s the perfect excuse to say, “It’s 5 o’clock somewhere,” and mean it.
Because no matter the distance, the bonds you make in military life are worth celebrating. On Galentine’s Day—or any day. Always.
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BY TEAL YOST
Managing Editor at MilSpouses
BY TEAL YOST
Managing Editor at MilSpouses
Teal Yost is a Navy spouse, journalist, and managing editor of Military Brands, where she leads storytelling that connects and empowers the military community. With more than a decade of experience in military-focused media, her work blends...
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