The 30th of July is International Day of Friendship; it was proclaimed in 2011 because of the benefits friendships have for community and health.
South Africa (28 July 2021) – International Day of Friendship is on the 30th of July, so this is how you can tell your bestie you cherish having them in your life. Another bonus is how great having a friend is for your health.
The International Day of Friendship was proclaimed in 2011 by the UN General Assembly. The idea that friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities.
Studies have been done on the effects of friendship, and aside from enriching lives, friends offer support through bad times, encouragement for dreams and above all else, laughter and joy!
To mark the International Day of Friendship, the UN encourages governments, international organisations and civil society groups to hold events, activities and initiatives that contribute to the efforts of the international community towards promoting a dialogue among civilizations, solidarity, mutual understanding and reconciliation.
We have friends in all aspects of life, from childhood friends, family friends and friends in our social circles to friends at work, the gym, our children’s schools and even our favourite local restaurants and bars. Each relationship plays a vital role in our happiness and well-being.
We encourage you to celebrate your friendships this Friday. Celebrate the people in your lives by sharing words of kindness, support and love.
How to celebrate with your friends.
- Share a precious memory on social media, celebrating a time spent together. These days, we don’t get to spend as much time with our friends as we would like. So look back on the good ol’ days with a smile and fondness.
- Send a private message to your friend, letting them know you appreciate them and all they do for you.
- Send flowers or a small gift if you can afford it.
- Have a video call meal together, or if you can do so safely, have a meal together.
- Start planning a trip together for when the world comes right.
- Offer to help with something that is important to them.
- Message an old friend you have meant to catch up with.
How are you planning to celebrate with your friend(s) this International Day of Friendship? You can find all the official UN days here.