Fun ways to celebrate international friendship day

Good friends are priceless. They're the ones who are always down to hang out and have fun but will also be the first to help and comfort you when hard times come. Around this time of year, there are many opportunities to show your friends how much you care. Today, people all across the world celebrate friendships with International Friendship Day. Here in the United States, we have an additional day to celebrate called National Friendship Day, which takes place on the first Sunday of August.

Whether you’re looking for something to do today or in the coming week, check out these fun ways to show your friends how much you appreciate them:

Surprise!

Go out of your way to do something your friend wouldn’t expect. Buy them tickets to see a show together, show up at their workplace or house with a gift, or spontaneously invite them over for a day of fun. Adding the element of surprise can make whatever you have planned so much more exciting. (Unless your friend isn’t a fan of surprises, in which case, you should probably steer clear and let them know well in advance.)

Spend some time together

There’s no better way to show you care than planning a get-together. Better yet—plan a get together doing something your friend enjoys! No matter what you do, enjoying some quality time together is a great way to strengthen your relationship and make new memories. If you’re stuck for ideas, here are a few places you could visit for a memorable day:

• Balboa Island – Shopping, dining, and fantastic views—Balboa Island really has it all. If you want to get out on the sea, they offer a whale and dolphin watching cruise for just $20. If you’re traveling with a group of friends, you could rent a Duffy Boat, a small, easy to steer electric boat designed for small groups to hang out. 
• Old Town Orange – For a true old-fashioned experience, Old Town Orange is the way to go. The shopping isn’t like anything you’ll get in Orange County, with antique shops, specialty items, art galleries, you and your friend could have an amazing time picking out gifts for each other. Later in the day, stop for a bite at one of the many restaurants.  
• Grab a drink – Sometimes the best way to rewind and catch up is with a drink. There’s some unique bars across the county, from the 80’s arcade styled Mission Control to the not-so-secret Anaheim speakeasy The Blind Rabbit, you can easily find somewhere suited to your friends personaliy.

Write a note

Don’t underestimate the power of a handwritten note. Whether you pick up a funny card at the store or write your message on the back of an index card, sharing something about how much the friendship means to you will be sure to make them smile. They’ll probably hang onto the note for a while, since knowing you took the time to write it out makes it so much more meaningful. If the idea still seems too old fashioned, a text message or a Facebook post will do the trick.

Make them laugh

It feels wonderful when somebody cares enough to try and brighten your day. Even if it’s just something simple like sending them a link to a funny video or meme, the gesture will be appreciated. Any small thing you do to improve their day and let them know they are on your mind will go farther than you think.

Get a small gift

It doesn’t need to be expensive or elaborate, just something small and thoughtful. Maybe you could find an old picture of the two of you and get it framed, pick up a treat from the grocery store, or find a small keepsake that reminds you of them. Remember that less expensive, more personal gifts are often the ones cherished the most. For something more unique, these stoers are sure are full of one-of-a-kind treasures:

• My-D Pins & Collectables - A treasure trove for Disney fanatics of all ages, this shop sells unique action figures, pins, and comics.
• Roger’s Gardens – For friends who are more into nature and gardening, Rodger’s Garden is the place to go. They offer specialty food items, along with beautiful garden gifts and figurines.
• Fullerton Photographics – Give your friend a gift they will treasure forever with custom prints and photographic artwork. Whether you want a photo of the two of you, or want to pick up some custom home décor, this is the place to be.

Give them a call

For long distance friends, spending time together in person might not be a possibility. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. International Friendship Day is a great opportunity to reconnect—so pick up the phone and give them a call! You’ll enjoy reminiscing over the times you’ve spent together in the past and catching each other up on what’s currently going on in your lives. You could even use this time to schedule dates for Facetime or video calls in the future, which is almost as good as hanging out in person.

Keep it going all year long

Live every day like it’s Friendship Day! After all, your friends are there for you all year long, not just on this day. Friendships are stronger when you are continually trying to be the best friend you can and are always looking for ways to remind the people who are important to you how much they matter.