About International Day of Friendship
The International Day of Friendship is observed on 30 July. It was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 2011 to promote friendship between people, cultures and countries as a way to build peace and understanding.
The UN General Assembly proclaimed the International Day of Friendship in 2011. The idea behind it is that friendship between people, countries and cultures can inspire peace and help bridge divides between communities.
The day invites us to think about friendship in a broad way. It is about the friends we already have, and also about the new connections we can make with people whose lives, languages or beliefs differ from our own.
How it is marked
Governments, organisations and community groups use the day to hold events that bring people from different backgrounds together. Schools may run activities about kindness, inclusion and understanding other cultures. Many people simply take the day to call an old friend or send a message.
In India, many people celebrate Friendship Day on the first Sunday of August instead, when friends tie friendship bands on each other’s wrists and exchange cards. The 30 July date is the one recognised by the United Nations.
What to write
Remind your friend of a shared moment and tell them plainly why they matter to you.
- Through every exam, every move and every silly argument, you stayed. Thank you for being my friend. Happy Friendship Day.
- We may not talk every day, but you are the first person I think of when something good happens. Thank you for you.
- Twenty years since we shared a bench in class one, and you're still my first call. Happy Friendship Day.
How to wish someone on International Day of Friendship
the friends who stand by us, and friendships that reach across backgrounds and borders
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the International Day of Friendship and Friendship Day in India?
The International Day of Friendship on 30 July was proclaimed by the United Nations. In India, Friendship Day is popularly celebrated on the first Sunday of August, often with friendship bands and cards.
How can schools mark the International Day of Friendship?
Schools can pair students from different classes for a shared activity, hold a discussion on kindness and inclusion, or ask students to write a note to a friend. Activities that introduce other cultures fit the day’s purpose well.
What should I write to a friend I have lost touch with?
Keep it light and warm. Mention a happy memory, say you have been thinking of them and suggest a call or meeting, without dwelling on the time that has passed.
When is International Day of Friendship in 2026?
International Day of Friendship 2026 falls on Thursday, 30 July 2026.
What is International Day of Friendship?
The International Day of Friendship is observed on 30 July. It was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 2011 to promote friendship between people, cultures and countries as a way to build peace and understanding.
Is International Day of Friendship a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Day of Friendship varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Day of Friendship?
Focus on the friends who stand by us, and friendships that reach across backgrounds and borders. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Day of Friendship card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .