30th July
International Day of Friendship
Plan a fun day with friends, like a trip to nature. Or reach out to old friends to meet up again or connect through a phone call, text message, video chat, or even a nice handwritten letter to let them know you still care.
The International Day of Friendship aims to promote the role that friendship plays in all cultures. On this special day, the United Nations encourages community groups, organizations, and governments to organize events that support reconciliation, mutual understanding, and solidarity.
The history of the International Day of Friendship dates back to 2011 when the United Nations adopted it. However, the day was originally established by Hallmark in 1919 as a day to celebrate friendship through sending postcards. This tradition disappeared in 1940 but was revived in 1998 when Winnie the Pooh was appointed as the world's Friendship Ambassador to the UN. In April 2011, the United Nations officially recognized July 30th as the International Day of Friendship.
Friendship has a global impact and is about promoting unity and kindness, bringing people together. The day is celebrated in accordance with the culture, customs, and traditions of local communities, often through educational and awareness activities. Increasingly, these events also focus on environmental issues and friendship towards animals, plants, and the planet.
Friendship has many benefits for people's lives. It increases emotional resilience, improves brain power, enhances sleep quality, and contributes to overall health. Celebrating the International Day of Friendship can be done in various ways, such as doing nice things for others, making new friends, participating in cultural events, preparing meals for friends, or organizing trips together.
In conclusion, the International Day of Friendship highlights the importance of friendship in our lives and encourages people to celebrate and cherish their friendships. It is a day to promote unity, understanding, and kindness, and to recognize the positive impact that friendship has on individuals and communities worldwide.
