National Friend Day

Two friends laughing while sitting on a park bench, wearing casual clothing, surrounded by trees and sunshine.. — National friend day illustration

Hello there, fun-loving friend-seekers! Today we're about to dive into a wholesome celebration that's all about bonds, laughter, and a lot (we mean a lot) of inside jokes - National Friend Day! That's right, there’s a day to celebrate your pals, your buddies, your comrades-in-arms, your...okay, you get the point.

When is Friend Day?

It's national friend day on the 31st July.

A Brief History

National Friend Day has been slowly making friends (pun intended) across the internet. With a whopping 19641 mentions online, folks really started chattering about it on July 31, 2020. Perhaps that was the day when we all realized how much we valued those zoom calls with our buddies during a shared experience we shall lovingly call Lockdown Life.

Every Buddy Loves a Friend

Indeed, it seems that friendships, the internet, and lockdowns were a match made in social media heaven. From shared playlists to cooking challenges to ‘whose pet does the weirdest thing?’ competitions, friendships found delightful and often hilarious avenues for expression online.

The Power of Friendship

It's no surprise National Friend Day has taken off with such gusto. It speaks to the very human need for connection, camaraderie and, let's face it, someone to laugh with when you accidentally mute yourself on a work call. Or is that just us?

A Friend a Day Keeps the Blues Away!

Finally, as we delve into the annals of internet history to understand the rise of this thoughtful day, we can't help but appreciate the magic of friendships. So, let's raise a proverbial toast to our friends, near or far, old or new, human or pet, for making our lives a little brighter, our laughter a little louder and our internet history a little friendlier.

History behind the term 'Friend'

Old English period (450-1100)

Origin of the term 'friend'

The term 'friend' traces its roots back to the Old English period. In Old English, the word 'freond' was used to refer to a person with whom one has a bond of mutual affection, loyalty, and support. The concept of friendship was highly valued during this era, and it encompassed both social and personal relationships.

Middle English period (1100-1500)

Expanding definitions of friendship

During the Middle English period, the definition of friendship expanded to include relationships beyond just mutual affection. Friendships were seen as an essential part of one's social and emotional well-being. The term 'friend' became more widely used and was applied to individuals with whom one had a close bond based on shared interests, trust, and companionship.

16th to 18th centuries

Friendship as a philosophical concept

The term 'friend' gained even deeper meaning during the 16th to 18th centuries. Philosophers like Montaigne and Bacon explored the nature of friendship and its impact on personal growth and happiness. Friendships were viewed as an important part of self-fulfillment and a means to understand oneself better. This period witnessed a growth in literature and essays focusing on the theme of friendship.

Modern era (19th century onwards)

Evolution of friendship in changing societies

In the modern era, friendship has evolved along with societal changes. The Industrial Revolution, urbanization, and technological advancements greatly influenced the way people formed and maintained friendships. The rise of social media and digital networking in recent decades has transformed the concept of friendship, allowing for connections across vast distances. Today, friendships can be nurtured and maintained online, giving rise to the term 'online friends'. However, the fundamental values of trust, loyalty, and support remain at the core of true friendship.

Did you know?

Did you know that the most popular way to celebrate National Friend Day online is by sharing 'best friend' memes? Humor truly is the glue that binds us together!