Erica Luna
International Day of Friendship, celebrated globally each year on July 30, is a heartfelt reminder of how friendship can bring people together across cultures, borders, and differences.
Officially recognised by the United Nations in 2011, this special day has its roots in earlier efforts to promote peace and goodwill through friendship. The movement traces back to 1958 when Dr. Ramon Artemio Bracho founded the World Friendship Crusade in Paraguay—with a vision of encouraging people worldwide to spread kindness and understanding.
Over time, International Day of Friendship has grown into a global celebration of unity, reminding us that friendship is a universal language capable of breaking down barriers and building bridges in this world.
How to Celebrate International Day of Friendship
1. Reach Out to Old and New Friends
Take a moment to reconnect with friends you haven’t spoken to in a while or to welcome someone new into your circle. A simple message, phone call, or face-to-face meeting can rekindle bonds and open doors to meaningful relationships that enrich our lives.
2. Organize or Join a Community Event
Many communities mark this day with cultural exchanges or friendship-themed gatherings. Participating in or hosting such events creates opportunities to celebrate diversity and build connections that strengthen the fabric of your local community.
3. Share Stories of Friendship
Use your voice—whether on social media or in personal conversations—to share inspiring stories of friendship that have crossed boundaries or transformed lives. These stories remind us all of the profound impact friendship can have and inspire others to seek and cherish meaningful connections.
4. Practice Acts of Kindness
Simple gestures—helping a neighbor, writing a thank-you note, or offering a listening ear—can strengthen existing friendships and spread goodwill beyond your immediate circle. These small acts ripple outward, creating a kinder, more connected world.
5. Volunteer Together
Friendship flourishes through shared experiences. Volunteering with friends allows you to bond while contributing to causes you care about. Working side by side fosters a sense of purpose and belonging that deepens friendships.
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International Day of Friendship is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a chance to cherish the connections that bring warmth and meaning to our lives. It invites us to celebrate the friendships that support us and to open our hearts to new ones.
To honour this special day, you can turn kindness into action. Our partner MINDS, a nonprofit supporting people with disabilities in Singapore, needs Morning Walk Volunteers and Weekend MYG Befrienders. Whether you have an hour or more, your time will bring comfort and friendship to someone who truly needs it.
Remember, you can make a difference in lives today—one hour, one friendship, one kind act at a time.
