International Day of Friendship

Yes, these days almost everything is celebrated, and there are truly a huge number of international and world days. In our country, the best known are probably these days - Mother's Day, Father's Day, International Women's Day, Children's Day, and All Souls' Day. Another interesting day is certainly International Friendship Day, because having a true friend is priceless. When is this day celebrated, and what is a suitable gift for friends?

When is it celebrated

International Friendship Day falls on 30 July. The date was set by the UN General Assembly only in 2011, even though the day has been celebrated since 1958. In some countries it is celebrated on a different day; for example, in the USA it is the first Sunday in August, while in Brazil it is on 20 July.

Why it is celebrated

In the Czech Republic, this day is not very well known, which is a shame, because friendships are very important to us. Besides our immediate and extended family, each of us surely has a few good friends whom we see every day or more often than once a year. The philosophy of this day is meant to be support for friendship regardless of religion, race, skin color, or wealth, as well as gratitude for the relationship these two people share.

When friendship begins in childhood

Some friendships last from childhood into adulthood, but that is rather exceptional. For preschool children, friendships are more of a daily matter, while for schoolchildren they can last for a few years. After finishing school, the paths of two friends often part ways, because they move to another city for further studies, attend clubs or sports activities where they make different friends, or start dating. And let's be honest, longer separation or the metaphorical rose-colored glasses worn by all people in love can shake up more than one friendship. However, if the friendship had solid foundations, it will surely overcome greater distances and temporary obstacles along the way. It often then happens that friends meet again after years and pick up right where they left off, as if the separation had never happened.

What to give friends

In the past, postcards/cards with greetings were sent; today that is more like science fiction, and everything happens electronically, by email or through social networks, because it is faster and “free.” Nevertheless, a handwritten letter or postcard would surely please everyone these days. In some countries, friends make friendship bracelets for one another or give each other flowers.

You can also celebrate friendship with a picnic or a trip into nature, visiting sights, or spending a few hours in wellness with a glass of wine. After all, the time two friends spend together is worth more than any material gift.

Take advantage of this day and meet up with your friends, or at least call them and tell them how much they mean to you and that you are glad your friendship is still going strong.