National Friendship Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating the bonds of friendship. It is a day to acknowledge and appreciate the importance of friends in our lives, providing us with joy, support, and companionship.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: National Friendship Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of August each year. In 2024, it will be observed on August 4.
- Tagged as: A day to honor and cherish friendships.
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalFriendshipDay and #friendshipday.
- When was it founded?: The concept was introduced by Hallmark Cards in 1919.
- Who founded it?: Joyce Hall, founder of Hallmark Cards.
History of National Friendship Day
National Friendship Day was originally created by Joyce Hall in 1919 as a marketing strategy for Hallmark Cards. The idea was to encourage people to celebrate their friendships by sending greeting cards. Although the holiday lost popularity during the Great Depression, it was revived in 1935 when the U.S. Congress declared the first Sunday of August as National Friendship Day. In 1998, Winnie the Pooh was named the world’s Ambassador of Friendship by the United Nations[1][2][3].
Timeline
- 1919: Hallmark Cards introduces National Friendship Day.
- 1935: The U.S. Congress proclaims the first Sunday of August as National Friendship Day.
- 1958: The World Friendship Crusade proposes July 30 as World Friendship Day.
- 1998: Winnie the Pooh is named Ambassador of Friendship by the UN.
- 2011: The UN officially recognizes July 30 as International Friendship Day.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | August | 4 | Sunday |
| 2025 | August | 3 | Sunday |
| 2026 | August | 2 | Sunday |
| 2027 | August | 1 | Sunday |
| 2028 | August | 6 | Sunday |
| 2029 | August | 5 | Sunday |
Observed
National Friendship Day is observed globally, encouraging people to connect with friends old and new. It’s a time to appreciate and celebrate friendships through various activities like exchanging gifts, sharing meals, or simply spending time together[4][5].
Fun Facts About National Friendship Day
- Yellow roses are often exchanged as symbols of friendship.
- The day promotes peace and unity across different cultures and communities.
- Social media plays a significant role in celebrating this day, with many sharing memories and messages online[5][6].
Quiz
- What year was National Friendship Day first introduced?
- Who was named the Ambassador of Friendship by the UN in 1998?
(Answers:)
- 1919
- Winnie the Pooh
FAQs
- Why is National Friendship Day important?
- It highlights the vital role friends play in our lives, providing emotional support and companionship.
- How can I celebrate National Friendship Day?
- Spend time with friends, exchange gifts or cards, and share memories.
Importance of National Friendship Day
National Friendship Day serves as a reminder of the importance of friendships in enhancing our well-being and happiness. It encourages us to strengthen our bonds with friends and appreciate their presence in our lives[1][2].
Related
- International Friendship Day (July 30)
- National Best Friends Day (June 8)
- National Make a Friend Day (February 11)