Unforgettable Ways to Celebrate International Friendship Day

Whether it’s the friend who brought chocolate and tissues after a break-up or the one who’s always ready for a pint and a chat when work gets tough, International Friendship Day is the perfect time to celebrate the family we choose. It’s a day to show our appreciation for those who have dried our tears and cheered us on through every win, sticking with us through thick and thin. So, as we celebrate the friends that make our lives so special, let's explore some of the best ways to show them just how much they mean to us!

What is International Friendship Day?

International Friendship Day, celebrated on the 30th of July, was proclaimed by the United Nations in 2011 to foster friendships between different cultures, countries, and people, thereby promoting peace and understanding. This day encourages us to appreciate our friends and the pivotal role they play in our lives. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge the positive impact of friendships and to celebrate the diversity and common humanity that binds us all together.

Little Things to Show Your Appreciation for Friendships

Sometimes, it's the little things that mean the most. Here are some simple yet heartfelt ways to show your friends how much they mean to you:

Write a Heartfelt Letter or Note
Take the time to write down your thoughts and feelings about your friendship. A heartfelt letter or note can be a treasured keepsake that your friend can look back on whenever they need a reminder of how much they mean to you.

Surprise Them with Their Favourite Treat
Everyone loves a good surprise, especially when it involves their favourite treat. Whether it's a delicious pastry, a special coffee, or a bar of their favourite chocolate, this small gesture can brighten their day.

Spend Quality Time Over a Coffee or Meal
Sometimes, all it takes is some quality time together to show your appreciation. Plan a coffee date or a meal where you can catch up, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company without any distractions.

Share a Nostalgic Memory or Photo
Reminiscing about shared experiences can strengthen your bond. Send them a photo from a memorable trip or a funny incident you both laughed at – it’s a wonderful way to relive those happy moments together.

Give a Small Token of Appreciation
A thoughtful gift doesn’t have to be extravagant. Something as simple as a friendship bracelet, a book, or a handmade item can convey your appreciation and remind your friend of your special bond.

Plan a Movie Night
Choose a selection of your favourite films or discover new ones together. A cosy movie night at home with popcorn and snacks can be a fun and relaxing way to spend time with friends.

Send an Unexpected Message
A spontaneous message, whether it’s a text, an email, or a social media post, can brighten your friend's day. Let them know you’re thinking of them and appreciate their friendship.

Organise a Virtual Hangout
If distance keeps you apart, set up a virtual hangout. Play online games, watch a movie simultaneously, or simply chat. It's a great way to stay connected despite being miles apart.

Unique Things to Do With Friends to Celebrate International Friendship Day

International Friendship Day is the perfect time to try something new and make unforgettable memories with your best friend. From thrilling adventures to creative workshops, there are countless unique activities that can bring you closer together. This diverse range of experiences ensures there's something for everyone, whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush or a relaxing day out. These activities are designed to celebrate the special bonds of friendship in fun and exciting ways.

Male Friendship Groups

Celebrate your brotherhood with activities that are as dynamic and adventurous as your friendships. These experiences make perfect gifts for friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Whisky Tasting

Discover the rich flavours and histories of different whiskies with your friends. A whisky tasting session is a refined experience that allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle while enjoying great company. It’s a perfect way to bond over shared interests and deepen your appreciation for this classic drink.

Axe Throwing

Unleash your inner warrior with an exhilarating axe throwing session. This fun and challenging activity is perfect for bonding and friendly competition. It's an experience that’s sure to be remembered and talked about for years to come, fostering camaraderie and a sense of accomplishment.

Escape Room

Test your teamwork and problem-solving skills in an escape room challenge. Working together to solve puzzles and escape within a set time frame can be both thrilling and rewarding, making it a great way to celebrate friendships and build stronger connections.

Rage Room Experience

If you’re looking to blow off some steam and have a blast, a rage room experience is the way to go. Smash objects in a controlled environment, releasing stress and having fun in the process. It’s a unique and therapeutic way to bond with your friends and let loose.

Go-Kart Racing

Engage in some high-speed fun with go-kart racing. Compete against each other on the track and enjoy the thrill of the race in a safe, controlled environment. This activity combines excitement and friendly competition, making it an unforgettable day out.

Golf Day

Spend a relaxing day on the green with your friends. A golf day provides the perfect blend of competition and camaraderie, offering plenty of opportunities for friendly banter and shared laughs. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy each other’s company in a serene setting.

Pub Crawl

Explore a variety of local pubs and enjoy different atmospheres and beverages. A pub crawl is a fun and social way to spend time together, discovering new favourite spots along the way. It’s a classic way to celebrate your friendship and make new memories.

Female Friendship Groups

Celebrate your gals with activities that combine creativity, relaxation, and a touch of luxury. These experiences are excellent thank you gifts for friends, offering the perfect mix of fun and bonding.

Wine Tasting

Spend a relaxing day sampling a variety of wines in a serene setting. A wine tasting experience is perfect for unwinding and enjoying good conversation with your closest friends. It’s a sophisticated way to indulge in some of life’s finer pleasures together.

Pottery Workshop

Get creative and hands-on with a pottery workshop. Crafting something beautiful together can be a therapeutic and enjoyable way to spend time with friends while creating lasting memories. It’s an ideal activity for those who love to express their artistic side.

Glamping Getaway

Escape to the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort with a glamping getaway. Enjoy nature with all the luxuries of home, perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend with friends. It’s a unique way to reconnect with nature and each other in a cosy, stylish setting.

Wild Water Swimming

Dive into the invigorating experience of wild water swimming. This outdoor adventure is both refreshing and exhilarating, offering a unique way to connect with nature and each other. It’s an empowering activity that will leave you feeling revitalised and closer than ever.

Spa Day

Treat yourselves to a day of pampering and relaxation at a spa. Enjoy massages, facials, and other treatments that rejuvenate both body and mind, making it a perfect way to celebrate your friendship. It’s the ultimate indulgence for those who love to be pampered.

Shopping Trip

Spend a day exploring shops and boutiques, finding treasures, and enjoying the excitement of shopping together. It’s a great way to bond, share fashion tips, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re hunting for bargains or splurging on treats, it’s always more fun with friends.

Beauty Salon Visit

Book a visit to a beauty salon for a makeover or a special treatment. Whether it’s a new hairstyle, a manicure, or a facial, this experience can make you feel pampered and refreshed. It’s a wonderful way to treat yourselves and spend quality time together.

Mixed Friendship Groups

Celebrate all of your pals with activities that everyone can enjoy together. These experiences are ideal things to do with friends, offering something for everyone.

Paint and Sip Workshop

Combine creativity with socialising in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. A paint and sip workshop allows you and your friends to create artwork while enjoying your favourite drinks, making it a delightful experience for all. It’s a fantastic way to express yourselves and have a laugh together.

Bottomless Brunch

Indulge in a delicious brunch with unlimited drinks. A bottomless brunch is a great way to spend a leisurely morning or afternoon with friends, filled with laughter, good food, and endless mimosas or cocktails. It’s a fun and relaxed way to enjoy each other’s company.

Escape Room

Challenge your friends to an escape room adventure. Perfect for mixed groups, this activity requires teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills, making it a fun and engaging experience. It’s a great way to build stronger bonds and enjoy some friendly competition.

Cooking Class

Learn new culinary skills and enjoy the fruits of your labour together with a cooking class. This interactive experience is perfect for mixed groups, combining fun, education, and delicious food. It’s a great way to discover new recipes and enjoy a meal you’ve made together.

Trivia Night

Organise a trivia night at home or at a local pub. Team up with your friends and test your knowledge on various topics, enjoying the friendly competition and lots of laughs. It’s a fun and interactive way to spend time together and learn something new.

Dinner Party

Host a dinner party where everyone brings a dish or helps with the cooking. This communal activity is perfect for enjoying good food, great company, and meaningful conversations. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate your friendships and share your culinary talents. For an extra special touch, explore our wide variety of at home experiences, from wine tasting to afternoon tea hampers, to elevate your evening and create unforgettable memories with your friends.

Bake Off

Get everyone into the kitchen for a friendly bake off. Compete to create the most delicious or creative baked goods, and then enjoy the tasty results together. This activity is perfect for friends who love to cook and bake, offering a fun and delicious way to spend time together. It's a sweet way to show off your baking skills and share lots of laughs in the process.

Board Games Night

Gather your friends for a night of board games. Choose from a diverse range of games, from strategy and trivia to classic favourites like Monopoly or Scrabble. This is a great way to bond, spark friendly competition, and create fun memories. It’s a perfect way to spend quality time together, laughing and strategising your way to victory.

Dessert Crawl

Indulge your sweet tooth with a dessert crawl, hopping from one café to another to sample their best treats. From decadent cakes to gourmet ice creams, this delicious adventure is perfect for friends who love to explore and savour new flavours. It’s a delightful way to spend time together, discovering hidden gems and sharing sweet moments.

Immersive Drinks Experience

Step into a themed bar or experience like the Moonshine Saloon. Engage in role-playing and enjoy unique cocktails in an immersive setting that transports you to another time and place, perfect for mixed groups looking for something different. It’s an exciting and memorable way to spend time together.

Whether it’s the true friend who made you laugh when you needed it most or the one who’s always ready for a spontaneous adventure, International Friendship Day is the perfect time to celebrate the family we choose. A true friend stands by us through all of life’s ups and downs, and this day is our chance to show just how much we appreciate them.

From sharing heartfelt moments to embarking on exciting adventures, there are countless ways to celebrate and strengthen these special bonds. So, gather your best pals and make this International Friendship Day one to remember with unique experiences and heartfelt gestures. After all, it’s the moments we share with our friends that truly enrich our lives. Cheers to the incredible friendships that make our journey through life so much more meaningful.