Happy Friendship Day 2023: 7 Trivia Facts

Friendship is an enduring theme in literature, art, and everyday life. Across ages and cultures, the bond of friendship stands as a testament to human connection, transcending borders, beliefs, and backgrounds. Friendship Day, therefore, serves as a moment to honour these bonds and acknowledge the joy and support friends bring into our lives. But how much do we know about this special day? In this article, we’ll dive into seven fascinating aspects of Friendship Day, shedding light on its history, significance, and the various ways it's celebrated across the globe.

The American Origin

The concept of a day dedicated to friends can trace its roots back to 1930. Joyce Hall, the founder of Hallmark Cards, proposed the idea of Friendship Day, intending it to be a day to send a card to a friend. While its commercial beginnings were met with scepticism, the idea persisted and evolved.

The Paraguayan Dinner

In 1958, during a casual dinner among friends in Paraguay, Dr Ramon Artemio Bracho conceived the idea of World Friendship Day. This dinner led to the formation of the World Friendship Crusade, an organization that championed the cause of friendship and peace across borders. The seed of a global sentiment was thus sown in a simple gathering, highlighting the power of a shared idea.

UN's Nod

The continuous efforts of the World Friendship Crusade bore fruit when, in 2011, the United Nations recognized July 30th as International Friendship Day. This gave the day global significance, emphasizing the role of camaraderie in promoting peace. Such recognition underscores the idea that friendships are foundational in building a harmonious global community.

A Date with Flexibility