Father’s Day – History, Significance and Celebration Ideas

Father’s Day, the day set aside to thank fathers and father figures for their constant love and support, came into being back in 1910 in the USA. While it is celebrated by millions of people around the world, not many know the history of Father’s Day.

Father’s Day, the day that celebrates dads and all they stand for – is the opportunity to show your dad how much you love him and grateful you are of him. But have you ever wondered why is Father’s Day is celebrated? Do you know who was the first person who realised that fathers should get their due? Take a walk down memory lane and find out what gave birth to this special day.

The History of Father’s Day

It all began more than a century ago when Sonora Smart Dodd from Arkansas went to attend a Mother’s Day sermon. The year was 1909. Sonora, whose mother died when she was still a little girl, was raised by her loving father, William Smart. He was a civil war veteran who brought up six of his children single-handed after his wife’s death. Just as Mother’s Day was observed to honour mothers around the world, Sonora felt that there should be a day to pay gratitude towards fathers as they also play a huge role in raising children.

She pitched the idea to her pastor in the church. The pastor took the idea seriously and asked Sonora for an appropriate date, on which she wants it to be celebrated. Sonora had suggested Father’s day to be celebrated on June 5, her father’s birthday. Since it was on short notice and the pastors did not have the time to prepare for the celebrations, it was postponed to the third Sunday of June. Since then, Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June.

Soon the local clergymen accepted the idea and the origin of Father’s Day came to be marked on June 19th, 1910. People in the other parts of the United States also began celebrating the day around the same time. President Calvin Coolidge approved the idea of observing National Father’s Day in 1924 and in 1956, and the idea of celebrating the day gained recognition by a joint resolution of Congress. Later in 1966, President Lyndon Johnson finally signed a proclamation and declared that the third Sunday of June would be observed as Father’s Day each year.

Today, Father’s Day is not only celebrated to thank and strength in your life, but to honour all father figures whether it’s a grandfather, stepfather, uncle, or a brother. This Father’s Day, honour your dad and the father figures in your life, and thank them for what they have done for you!

Why Is Father’s Day Celebrated?

Father’s Day is celebrated to honor and appreciate the role of fathers and father figures in our lives. It’s a day to recognize their love, sacrifices, guidance, and lifelong commitment to their families. The significance of Father’s Day lies in acknowledging the influence fathers have in shaping the character and future of their children. Celebrated in many countries around the world, it’s a special occasion to express gratitude and strengthen the bond between children and their dads—biological or otherwise.

When Is Father’s Day Celebrated?

Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June each year in many countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and India. In 2025, Father’s Day will fall on Sunday, June 15.

Celebration of Father’s Day

Father’s Day is a special occasion dedicated to honoring fathers and celebrating their role in the family and society. It is observed in many countries, typically on the third Sunday of June. When it comes to how it is celebrated, traditions may vary, but common ways include spending quality time with dads, giving cards and gifts, preparing special meals, or planning family outings. Many people also show appreciation through heartfelt messages, phone calls, or sharing memories. Whether simple or elaborate, the celebration centers around expressing love and gratitude for fathers and father figures.

How Is Father’s Day Celebrated In Other Countries?

The date on which Father’s Day is observed in different countries may differ, but the spirit to celebrate remains the same. Father’s Day is just a day to let your father know how much you love him.

1. United States

In the U.S., Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in June. It’s a family-focused occasion where children often surprise their dads with cards, gifts, and handmade crafts. Many families spend quality time together, enjoying meals, outings, or simply relaxing at home.

2. United Kingdom

Father’s Day in the UK also falls on the third Sunday in June, and it’s a time when people honor their fathers through thoughtful gifts, greeting cards, and family activities. It’s a popular opportunity to express appreciation and affection toward dads and father figures.

3. Australia & New Zealand

In Australia and New Zealand, Father’s Day is observed on the first Sunday in September. Children often create gifts at school and spend the day doing outdoor activities. Family BBQs and nature outings are especially common during the early spring season.

4. Germany

Germany celebrates Father’s Day, known as “Vatertag,” on Ascension Day, which is 40 days after Easter. The day is often marked by groups of men hiking together with wagons full of beer and food. It’s more of a celebration of manhood and camaraderie than a traditional family holiday.

5. Japan

Japan observes Father’s Day on the third Sunday in June, with a focus on respect and gratitude. Children often give their fathers handmade crafts, sweets, and flowers like roses or yellow carnations as tokens of love and appreciation.

FAQs

1. Who started Father’s Day and where did it originate?

Father’s Day originated in the United States. It was first celebrated in 1910 in Spokane, Washington, thanks to Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to honor her father, a Civil War veteran and single parent.

2. What are some popular Father’s Day gifts?

Common Father’s Day gifts include greeting cards, personalized items, gadgets, books, clothing, and tools. Many people also give experiences, like tickets to a game or a family outing.

3. How can I celebrate Father’s Day at home?

You can celebrate at home by cooking your dad’s favorite meal, watching a movie together, creating a handmade gift, or simply spending quality time talking and relaxing.

Knowing about Father’s Day history makes the day seems all the more special, doesn’t it? The man who worked hard for you and the entire family definitely deserves to be thanked and appreciated.No matter how busy you are, take time out from your schedule to visit your father on this day and do something special for him. Plan something with your children, so that they can honour their dad too.

Also Read:

Father’s Day Poems for Kids
Father’s Day Quotes and Wishes
Father’s Day Card Ideas for Kids

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