Take a moment to think about those you hold closest to your heart. Now subtract the obvious suspects of family and significant others. What you’re left with is a group truest to you: your friends. The colour of friendship comes in many hues. International Friendship Day was christened by the United Nations as a way to bridge gaps between race, religion, and creed in order to promote unity during times of division. While you should never need a reason to celebrate the people closest to you, it’s the perfect time to take some creative inspiration and make this International Day of Friendship one to remember for years to come.
Those Who Brunch Together
Brunch is a quintessential staple in friendship culture. From french toast and mimosas to the always elegant eggs benedict, there’s something for everyone when it comes to the meal that’s not quite lunch but definitely isn’t breakfast. Kick off your day of celebration with a brunch to remember. This could include whipping up something in your own home, with favorites like bakery style cinnamon buns or even something from your own rolodex of recipes. We can all agree that there’s no better way to be a good friend than to serve up some homemade deliciousness. You can even pull off the outdoor cushion and pillow covers or chair covers and eat outside if the winter weather will allow it. If you’re not fluent in the wisdom of culinary arts, there’s no shame in meeting up at a local small-business café for good food and good times. Want to make it extra special? Pick up the check without telling the rest of your friends for a surprise that’s in the true spirit of International Friendship Day.
Sun Day of Fun Day
Trips to the countryside or beach bring the joy of friendship to life. You may not be able to take a dip in the water, but a trip to the beach can still be fun even in the winter and especially with friends. If the weather is pleasant, grab a pair of shades, pack a light lunch, and round up the best of your friends for a day in the great outdoors. Maybe you’re more of an indoor trip kind of crew? That’s no problem at all. Some of the coolest tourist attractions are in your own backyard. Try researching a few fun spots in your own town or even in a neighboring community. These destinations might include a museum or greenhouse botanical garden. It doesn’t matter which avenue you choose; you can make a full day out of it with good fun and even better friends.
Giving Back
Nothing brings people closer than coming together to help others. Join forces with your friends in honor of International Friendship Day and give back to those who need kindness and support the most. Volunteering at local community-based organizations is a great way to celebrate the founding principle of the holiday. This work might include putting in hours in animal shelters, food banks, or elderly care homes. Looking for a job that’s as fun as it is charitable? Host an all-in-good-fun poker game amongst your friends. Donate all money to the winner’s philanthropic organization of choice. The possibilities for giving back and having fun with friends are endless on International Friendship Day.
The Gift of Friendship
International Friendship Day has been around for over 85 years. Since 1935, the enduring day of companionship has existed as a landmark for celebrating the spirit of human connection. Small, thoughtful gift giving can make a big impact on a friendship. So why not think about how you can remind them of your special bond?
- Have a favorite photo of the two of you framed to capture a special memory you share.
- Make a playlist of songs the two of you hold dear for reasons only you know. If you’re feeling old school, you could even try your hand at creating a mixtape or CD for some retro charm.
- Gift them a bouquet of gorgeous yellow roses, symbolizing the strong bond of your friendship.
Work It Out
Friendship is all about the realization that you’re on a lifelong journey with someone, enjoying each other’s company, supporting each other, and providing encouragement, comfort, and laughter all the while. International Day of Friendship is also the perfect time to rekindle friendships of the past. Reach out to those you fell out of touch with over the years. Write them a card, postcard, or letter with a simple message that lets them know how much you care. You might even consider reminiscing about some of the best moments or memories you shared together. Writing a letter might seem old-fashioned, but therein lies the appeal of it. A friend will be touched to know that you took the time to reach out to them in such a personal and unique way. Connecting with and cherishing those you hold closest is a tale as old as time. International Friendship Day is a reminder that the spirit of friendship is not reserved for one day of the year, but rather something that is ever present in the journey known as life.
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