Transparency Note: We promise this isn't about awkward icebreakers. This post helps you celebrate! It contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy through them, I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly love.
Remember Kindergarten?
You walked up to someone, offered them a slightly chewed-on crayon, and boom—you were best friends for life.
As adults, it’s… complicated. We have schedules. We have anxiety. We have "I’m too tired to put on real pants."
But this Wednesday, February 11, is National Make a Friend Day.
It’s the nudge we all need to get out of our bubbles. Whether it’s texting that mom you always see at drop-off or finally scheduling lunch with a coworker, today is about connection.
Manny (our resident penguin) tries to make friends with the seagulls. They mostly just steal his lunch, but he admires their persistence.
Here is how to break the ice without feeling weird.
Why We Celebrate: The Science of "Pal-ing Around"
This isn't just a fluffy holiday. Research shows that loneliness is as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Conversely, strong social connections boost your immune system, lower stress, and actually help you live longer.
The Big Why: We celebrate because we were built for village life, but we are living in isolation. Today is about rebuilding the village, one coffee date at a time.
3 Ways to Make Today Memorable
1. The "Skip Small Talk" Strategy (The Tool)
The hardest part of a new friendship is the awkward silence. "So... crazy weather, huh?"
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The Move: Bring backup.
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The Amazon Find: TableTopics Original: Questions to Start Great Conversations.
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Why we love it: It’s a box of cards with questions like "What was your favorite vacation?" or "What is your favorite comfort food?" Put a card on each plate at dinner, or bring the pack to Happy Hour. It gives you permission to skip the weather chat and get to the good stuff.
2. The "Walk and Talk" Date (The Activity)
Sitting across a table from someone new can feel like an interview. Walking side-by-side removes the pressure.
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The Move: Invite a neighbor for a "Hot Girl Walk" (even if it's freezing).
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The Amazon Find: YETI Rambler 20 oz Travel Mug.
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The Gesture: Make coffee at home, pour it into two nice travel mugs, and bring one to your friend. The Yeti keeps it piping hot for hours, and the MagSlider lid prevents spills while you walk. It’s a low-cost, high-value gesture.
3. The "Nostalgia" Bond (The Craft)
Friendship bracelets are back (thank you, Taylor Swift).
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The Move: Host a "Galentine's" craft night.
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The Amazon Find: Clay Heishi Beads Kit with Charms.
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The Vibe: It’s impossible to be stressed when you are spelling out "BESTIES" with tiny letter beads. It keeps your hands busy so the conversation flows naturally. Plus, everyone leaves with a souvenir.
The Perfect Gift for the "Work Bestie"
If you have a coworker who keeps you sane during 3-hour Zoom meetings, they deserve a medal. Or at least a desk accessory.
Our Editors' Pick:
The "Thank You For Being My Unpaid Therapist" Candle
Why we love it: Okay, maybe don't give this to your boss. But for your actual work friend? It’s hilarious. It smells like Lavender (calming) and validates the sacred bond of venting about office chaos.
Perfect for: The person you DM immediately after the meeting ends.
Shop the Funny Bestie Candle on Amazon
Join the Conversation
We want to hear your origin story.
How did you meet your oldest friend?
(School bus? College dorm? A random encounter in a bathroom line?)
Tell us your story in the comments on Instagram or TikTok and tag us @OnManyOccasions!
Don't Miss the Next Celebration
February is full of love! Do you know when Galentine's Day is? (It’s Feb 13!).
Download our Free 2026 Celebration Calendar and never miss a fun holiday again.
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