Take a minute to think about the people who are closest to you. Some will be members of your family, but we bet at least as many, if not more, are your dearest and truest friends.
Although you should never need a reason to celebrate your friendship with others (though some have adopted the tradition of the “friend-aversary”), each July or August, Friendship Day gives us the chance to truly honor our friends and let them know just how grateful we are to have them in our lives. How do you and your BFF(s) plan to celebrate this year?
Here are 10 of our favorite Friendship Day activities.
1. Make friendship bracelets
Friendship bracelets have long been used to signify the connection between BFFs, so if you and yours don’t already have one, grab your supplies and get started! Our DIY guide for making friendship bracelets has everything you need to know about this worthwhile activity.
2. Go to the beach
If weather permits, grab your shades, pack a lunch, and throw on your best beach outfit. Then, head to a stretch of coastline to spend the day outdoors with your best pals!
3. Plan a dinner party
Have a bunch of friends you’d like to celebrate with? Plan a dinner party either at your favorite restaurant or someone’s home. If you choose to eat in, consider a potluck, where you ask each friend to bring their best dinner dish.
4. Host a movie or TV marathon
Missed last week’s episode of your favorite TV show? Or, is there a movie series you’ve been dying to see but haven’t had the time? If so, invite your best friend over, grab some snacks, fire up your streaming service of choice, and let the magic of the small screen sweep you two away.
5. Take a day trip
Some of the best tourist attractions are located right in your own backyard. Research some of the top things to do in your town (or neighboring communities) and make a day of it. Some ideas may include the aquarium, the zoo, a botanical garden, or a museum.
6. Get active
The best workout is the one done with a friend! Now, that doesn’t mean you have to spend the whole day in the gym; you can also head out on a bike ride, go rollerblading on the boardwalk, or go hiking on your favorite trail.
7. Volunteer
There’s no better feeling than giving back, and we bet it’ll feel even better when you do it with your BFF. Research some organizations in your area and see who could use a helping hand.
8. Visit a spa
Ahh, a little R&R time. Start the day with a manicure and/or pedicure, then treat yourselves to a massage — you deserve it! Or, create your own spa and enjoy your relaxation time right in the comfort of your or your friends’ home. All you need are the right lotions, candles, and some soaps!
9. Take a cooking class
If you want to become more handy in the kitchen, sign up for a cooking class. If you want to surprise your friend with his or her favorite treat, you could even tackle this activity alone before you get together to really get the celebration started.
10. Go shopping
A little retail therapy never hurt anyone! Head to your local mall, outlets, or shopping center and treat yourselves to those clothes and accessories you’ve been wanting to buy. And don’t forget to stop for lunch while you’re out!
In addition to planning activities that you can do to celebrate your friendship with your BFFs, you can also send them a gift or two. From flowers to chocolates, or an arrangement that says thank you for being you, we know that your best friends will absolutely love the gesture.
AUTHOR
Check out the variety of blog posts written by SEO intern Lauren Jusas. From gifting to gardening, see how Lauren's ideas can help to switch things up!