Of course people don’t need an official date to celebrate their relationships, but it doesn’t hurt to have another reason to appreciate the important relationships in your lives.

Originally honoring Saint Valentine, Feb. 14 has evolved into the commonly known celebration of Valentine’s Day, a day for people to celebrate the relationships in their lives, specifically romantic bonds. 

At first thought, people immediately think about roses and chocolates and how the day can only appear applicable to those in a romantic relationship. However, in recent years, many are embracing the holiday as a way to celebrate their love for friends, family, and themselves.

For so many aspects in life, Gen Z embraces traditions in a much different way than older generations, particularly their relationships. Whether that be romantic, friendships, or their family, Gen Z has flipped the script entirely of what it means to love. 

Specifically, Gen Z has transformed the romantic world and made it their own. I think it’s safe to say, although it may be sad, that the days of sharing a milkshake and going to a movie don’t make two people an official couple anymore.

Compared to past generations, Gen Z is more realistic and sensible in their ways of going about their romantic relationships. For instance, the terms “talking stage” and “situationship” have risen within the past few years, due to Gen Z’s modern approach to dating and romantic relationships. According to a 2021 study at Tulane University, Gen Z is hesitant and disinclined to attach a clear definition to any of their relationships. Consequently, dating life and expectations today are much more chaotic and less definitive as opposed to previous generations.

These new terms in the dating world could be related back to the pandemic and how many took on and embraced online dating, texting, and Facetiming as opposed to in person, face-to-face conversations and experiences. 

Now back to Valentine’s Day. The day doesn’t have to be no fun if you’re not in a relationship. In recent years, Valentine’s Day has taken on a new celebration called “Galentine’s Day” where it’s a time for people to celebrate and appreciate the friendships in their lives. Although the name targets a female audience, the celebration is for everyone.

Although Valentine’s Day has remained a day of celebration for couples, the day has just as importantly become a day of celebration for friendships. More Gen Z’ers admit that they would prefer to spend the holiday with their friends and family rather than hanging out with their complicated “situationship.”