Culture Craze

National Girlfriend’s Day 2025: Celebrate Romance and Friendship

Published

2 months ago

August 1, 2025

Chiraag

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Every year on 1 August, timelines around the globe light up with messages to “girlfriends.” But for women in Johannesburg and across South Africa, this day means more than just romance. National Girlfriend’s Day honours every woman: the one who carries us through, the romantic partner, the best friend, the sister, the cousin, or even the version of ourselves who kept dreaming.

A celebration of all kinds of love

“Girlfriend” once simply meant a female friend. In the 1850s, it was very much platonic. Only by the 1920s did it begin to refer to an intimate partner. Today in 2025, the term lives in both worlds simultaneously. This day welcomes both meanings. Whether you’re in a relationship or celebrating your tribe, it’s for you.

The origin story you won’t find in your calendar

The day first gained recognition in the early 2000s through American creators Allie Savarino Kline and Sally Rodgers, who launched Sisterwoman.com in 2006 to uplift female friendships. Their effort ignited a tradition, now global, that encourages us to celebrate both love and sisterhood. It always falls on 1 August, and in 2025, that is a Friday, setting the stage for a weekend of connection.

How Jozi women are shaping the celebration

Forget choreographed brunch shots. Women in Joburg are turning this into something real. Think late-night voice notes that spiral into honest conversation. Rooftop poetry jams with sisters in Maboneng. Quiet coffee dates in Emmarentia where you say thank you more than once. That is how modern South African women are honouring the day.

Why it resonates deeply in South Africa

In a country where women navigate constant pressure, from economic insecurity to community safety, friendship is a lifeline. The women in your circle are your confidantes, your witnesses, and your emergency contacts in crisis. National Girlfriend’s Day is not superficial. It is a deliberate pause to acknowledge that without each other, many of us would be invisible.

Ways to celebrate with intention

This day isn’t about spending money. It’s about emotional generosity.

• Send a voice note to a friend you’ve lost touch with.
• Acknowledge your partner or bestie in a handwritten note.
• Share an old photo with a message of gratitude.
• Gift your time: cook, wander, chat.
• Tell the women in your life: “You are seen. Thank you.”

It doesn’t have to look like it does on TikTok. Make it authentic.