Did you celebrate SISMAS this year? If not, consider this your official invitation for next year because this girls-only holiday is quickly becoming the end-of-year tradition women everywhere didn’t know they were missing.
Across New York City and other major metro areas, women gathered in living rooms, kitchens, and cozy community spaces to celebrate sisterhood, self-care, and genuine connection. From small, thoughtful gifts to themed potlucks and game nights filled with laughter, SISMAS has emerged as a joyful alternative (or complement) to Galentine’s Day.
SISMAS was founded in 2009 by entrepreneur and philanthropist Simone I. Smith, born from her desire to stay connected to the women she loved most. “Every time we returned home to New York, I missed my girls deeply,” Smith shares exclusively with BrownStyle Magazine. “So, we’d gather at my house—I’d cook, we’d play cards, we’d sing, dance, laugh. It was pure sisterhood.”
What began as an intimate gathering has since grown into a nationally recognized holiday, celebrated annually on the second Saturday of December, centered on honoring the bonds between women. “SISMAS represents everything I love about sisterhood: love, laughter, connection, compassion, and showing up for one another,” Smith explains. “It celebrates the women who pour into you—your friends, your cousins, your chosen family.”
At its heart, SISMAS is also a reminder to slow down. During a season filled with obligations, it encourages women to be present with themselves and with one another. “When we gather, we uplift one another, and we create space for joy,” Smith says. “The Bible says in Proverbs 27:17 that iron sharpens iron. That’s sisterhood.”
Here at BrownStyle Magazine, we often talk about opulence as a feeling, not a price tag, and SISMAS embodies that philosophy beautifully. “For me, opulence isn’t about material things, it’s about big love, gratitude, and joy,” Smith shares. “The spirit of SISMAS feels warm and full, like a room overflowing with laughter and connection.”
Unity is also woven into every SISMAS tradition. From talent shows and fashion moments to thoughtfully curated themes, each gathering reflects the collective energy of the women in the room. “SISMAS thrives because we show up together,” Smith says. “Everyone brings their own love, traditions, and creativity.”
Above all, SISMAS is about being seen—especially for Black women. “We carry so much, often without acknowledgment,” Smith shares. “SISMAS is a moment to be reminded that you deserve joy, you deserve love, and you deserve community.”
Looking ahead, Smith envisions SISMAS as a lasting tradition. “I see SISMAS becoming a nationwide moment for women everywhere,” she says. “But no matter how large it grows, I want it to stay grounded in love, just like it was in my home.”
How to Celebrate SISMAS
Are you considering hosting your own SISMAS gathering? Here are a few inspired ideas straight from Simone:
✨ Pick a Theme
This year’s theme was Cowgirl, inspired by her grandson, Cowboy Carter. From pajama parties to glam nights in, choose a theme that reflects your circle’s vibe.
✨ Play Games
Simone’s favorite: Left, Right, and Center—easy, fun, and guaranteed laughs.
✨ Give Thoughtful Gifts
Small tokens like candles, journals, or self-care essentials add joy and surprise.
✨ Be Present
The magic of SISMAS lives in the moments—stories shared, laughter exchanged, and love poured freely.
Join the SISMAS Movement
Did you celebrate this year? Share your moments using #SISMASDay and help spread the love because sisterhood deserves its shine. Learn more and shop SISMAS essentials at simoneismith.com.
