International Friendship Day

International Friendship Day History

The International Day of Friendship is celebrated to promote the idea of friendship between people, cultures, and countries. The day was proclaimed by the United Nations in 2011, and it recognises the importance of friendship in creating peace and harmony throughout the world.

In Australia, the International Day of Friendship is celebrated annually, with various events and activities taking place to bring people together from different backgrounds and cultures. Australians are encouraged to make new friends and reach out to old ones, as well as to promote the values of tolerance and respect for those of different nationalities and religions.

The day is meant to be a reminder that even in times of division and conflict, a simple act of friendship can make a world of difference. Through friendship, people can learn to appreciate each other's differences and work towards a common goal of a more inclusive, peaceful, and compassionate society. The International Day of Friendship is observed annually on July 30th.

Facts about International Friendship Day

• In 1998, the UN Secretary's wife, Nane Annan, named Winnie the Pooh as the Ambassador of Friendship at the UN.
• It's been proved that we can catch happiness from our friends. A Harvard study suggested that if a person becomes happy, a friend living close by has a 25% higher chance of becoming happy too.
• Studies show that the quality of friendships during adolescence could predict mental health in adulthood.
• The Australian climate and love for sports often play a role in friendships, with many friendships being formed and maintained through participation in outdoor activities or sporting events.
• Australians are known for their strong community spirit and volunteering culture, which can open opportunities for forming meaningful friendships through shared community work and local involvement.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Friendship Day

Top things to do in Australia for International Friendship Day

• Let every one of your friends know how much you appreciate them - with a card, a letter, a phone call, an email, a text, etc.
• Perform random acts of kindness for strangers and make some new friends.
• Invite friends from various cultures and backgrounds for a potluck dinner or a gathering at your home or a local park to celebrate International Day of Friendship. Encourage everyone to share their favorite cultural dishes, music, and stories with each other.
• Exploring places like Sydney's Cabramatta, Melbourne's Footscray, or Brisbane's Sunnybank, which are known for their diverse cultural communities, can provide you with insights into different customs and the importance of cultural exchange and harmony.