Anyone who is a fan of the show Parks and Recreation will see the words “Galentine’s Day” and know immediately what it’s about. For those who aren’t Leslie Knope devotees, however, an explanation may be in order.
Galentine’s Day is about celebrating love. But unlike its counterpart Valentine’s Day, the love celebrated isn’t strictly between couples.
This month, Fresno will host its own Galentine’s Day event thanks to Take3 Burgers co-owner and events planner Desirae Washington—and you’re invited.
The Galentine’s Day Treat Exchange will take place from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11 at the Broadway Event Center located at 721 Broadway St. in downtown Fresno. Admission to the event is $1, and you’re asked to bring a treat (made or store-bought) to exchange with another guest.
I talked to Des about the event which, you may be surprised to learn, is not just for single gals.
FresYes: So what inspired you to do a Galentine’s Day event?
Des Washington: I have been wanting to do a women’s event for awhile, and I randomly saw “Galentine’s Day” while perusing Instagram and thought it was a great opportunity. I want to do more events that promote friendships among women. I had a really rough year last year, and if it wasn’t for some very understanding, nurturing, and supportive women, I don’t know if I’d be standing right now. What better way to make a new friend than an old school Valentine exchange?
FY: Is the Treat Exchange for single women only, or can those in a couple participate?
DW: Everyone is welcome! This event is about making friends, not about being anti-Valentine’s Day or anti-relationships. Sometimes being in a relationship is when you need your gal pals the most. Also, some of my best girlfriends are men! They have better brows than me, and give the best advice. Galentine’s Day is open to friends, period.
FY: You ask that guests bring a treat to exchange—is this a one-to-one exchange or a pot luck? Like, if you bring one eclair, are you good?
DW: The event is not a potluck. It will be a one-to-one exchange with someone you did not arrive with. I haven’t worked out how guests will be paired with their new BFF, but this is a special treat for the person you’ll be meeting. I can’t tell anyone how much to bring. I’ll probably bake a tray of something and bring extra in hopes of making more than one friend!
FY: Is it really just $1 to attend? I assume cocktails and small bites will be for sale?
DW: It is only $1! And those dollars will be donated to a very dear friend of mine that works with the homeless. We’ll be putting together care packages for the women on the street, with things like sanitary napkins and cleansing wipes.
There will be a cash bar, as well as a number of vendors selling food and other great items—things that you could buy for your Galentine or Valentine!
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If you’d like to attend the Galentine’s Day Treat Exchange, make sure to check out the Facebook event page here. Happy Galentine’s Day!
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