There’s nothing like the gift of friendship. But do you ever take the moment to slow down and show your appreciation towards your pals? Many people don’t, and so World Friendship Day (July 30) gives us a reminder of why it’s a good practice to do so!
International Friendship Day didn’t kick off with so much popularity when it was first invented, but through some changing reasons for its continued existence, it has remained an important day that is certainly worth celebrating.
What Is International Friendship Day And How Did It Start?
Back in the 1930’s, Hallmark created the idea for Friendship Day. They hoped people would adopt the idea and send cards to one another. However, people were wary and thought this was all in an effort to boost profits.
By the 1940s, the market for card writing dried up. While the day didn’t take off in the US, countries in Asia adopted the idea. Friends would exchange gifts to honor one another.
In 1958, the World Friendship Crusade proposed the ideas for World Friendship Day to promote a world of peace through friendship. By 1998, Winnie the Pooh was the world’s Ambassador for Friendship at the UN.
On the day’s 30th anniversary, in 2011, the General Assembly of United Nations deemed International Friendship Day to be on July 30.
Thanks to the rise in popularity of social media, the world has witnessed an increase in participation of the day that brings people together.
What’s The Purpose Of International Days?
International days are designed to raise awareness for causes and help to create a better world. They are declared by the UN and occur annually on the same day.
Want to be a part of the special day? Here are some activities you can do to be a part of the fun!
1. Meet A Friend (Or Social Distance Zoom Party)
2020 has been an interesting time regarding socialization. While in better times, you could easily plan a party or meet friends to celebrate one another, this year could call for a social distancing Zoom party instead. At the heart of it all, the purpose remains the same — make new memories with your friends and spend some time together.
2. Attend A Community Cultural Celebration
Friendship is just one simple way to support cultural diversity. If you’ve been thinking about getting involved in your community, look out for schedules and events you can attend. This way, you can make new friends and learn about new cultures.
3. Send Your Best Friend A Gift
It always feels good to give, especially to those whom you love. Buy your best friend a gift that you know they’ll love.
4. Write Your Friend A Card
Whether you want to give your friend a gift or not, writing your friend a card can make the exchange even more meaningful. A short and sweet note will do the trick. Or, you can write a longer letter expressing your gratitude and love for your friend or just remind them of your favorite memories together.
5. Express Your Gratitude On Social Media
Perhaps you want to share your love and admiration for your friends on social media. You can share a story or post with a collage of photos from your time together with little notes!
6. Make Something For Your Friends
Some of the most meaningful gifts tend to be hand-made. Try your hand (no pun intended) at creating something for your friend. This could be an arts and crafts project, something you bake, a woodworking product, or anything else you know they may enjoy.
Facts About International Friendship Day
Hallmark’s introduction of greeting cards sparked the idea for Friendship Day. It gave people the ways by which to send cards to friends as a quick hello.
All it takes is a simple connection to make a new friend or continue a longstanding friendship.
Anyone can and should celebrate this day. It’s also a great day to teach kids about friendship and to accept others as they come.
The UN made July 30 World Friendship Day, but some countries around the world celebrate earlier or later, sometimes in July, August and/or April.
How you treat others reflects a lot about who you are. You can also use this day as an opportunity for reflection.
There’s no one way to celebrate World Friendship Day. What’s most important is that you honestly communicate with your friends and share your appreciation. It’s fun to look down memory lane and cherish all you’ve been through together. It’s even more exciting to take the time to create new memories!
At UoPeople, our blog writers are thinkers, researchers, and experts dedicated to curating articles relevant to our mission: making higher education accessible to everyone. Read More
