Father’s Day: History, Global Traditions & Original Ideas to Celebrate Dad
Every year, millions of people around the world celebrate Father’s Day to honor dads, stepdads, and father figures in their lives. But do you really know the origin of Father’s Day? Did you know it’s not celebrated on the same date everywhere in the world?
In this article, discover the fascinating history of this special day, its cultural roots, and unique ways it’s celebrated across the globe.
What Is the Origin of Father’s Day?
The history of Father’s Day goes back to the early 20th century in the United States. While Mother’s Day was officially recognized earlier, it was a woman—Sonora Smart Dodd—who first advocated for the formal recognition of fathers as family pillars.
Sonora Smart Dodd: A Daughter Inspired by Her Father
In 1910, in Spokane, Washington, Sonora Smart Dodd wanted to honor her father, William Jackson Smart, a widowed Civil War veteran who raised his six children alone. Inspired by a sermon about Mother’s Day, she proposed the idea of a special day for fathers.
The first official Father’s Day celebration took place on June 19, 1910.
A Late National Recognition
Despite gaining popularity over the years, it wasn’t until 1972 that President Richard Nixon officially recognized Father’s Day as a U.S. national holiday, set for the third Sunday of June.
Why Is Father’s Day Not Celebrated on the Same Date Everywhere?
Unlike Mother’s Day, which is generally celebrated in May, Father’s Day dates vary widely across the world. These differences reflect each country’s cultural, religious, and commercial influences.
How Is Father’s Day Celebrated Around the World?
In Quebec and Canada: A Blend of Family Traditions and Local Warmth
In Quebec and the rest of Canada, Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June, following the U.S. tradition. While it’s not a public holiday, it holds an important place in many families’ hearts.
Typical celebrations include family meals, small personalized gifts, and quality time spent together—like going fishing, hiking, or visiting a local museum. Schools and daycares often help kids prepare handmade cards or crafts to give to their dads.
- Date: Third Sunday of June
- Traditions: Handmade cards, family brunches, father-child activities, meaningful gifts
France: From Commercial Campaign to Family Tradition
In France, Father’s Day gained popularity in 1952 thanks to the lighter manufacturer Flaminaire, which launched the idea as a marketing campaign. It quickly caught on and became a beloved family celebration.
- Date: Third Sunday of June
- Common gifts: Handmade cards, tools, colognes, electronic gadgets
Germany: The Festive "Vatertag"
In Germany, Father’s Day or "Vatertag" is celebrated on the same day as Ascension Day. It’s often marked not by quiet family dinners, but by lively men’s outings—with wagons full of beer, music, and food.
- Date: 40 days after Easter
- Tradition: All-male hikes, often festive (and sometimes boozy!)
Italy: A Religious Celebration on Saint Joseph’s Day
In Italy, Father’s Day is celebrated on March 19, which is also the Feast of Saint Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. This tradition is deeply rooted in Catholic culture.
- Date: March 19
- Tradition: Family meals and typical pastries like zeppole
Japan: Respect and Symbolism
In Japan, Father’s Day is a time of respect and appreciation. Children give their dads practical or meaningful gifts such as ties, skincare products, or handmade crafts. Some schools organize workshops to make cards or poems.
- Date: Third Sunday of June
- Gift ideas: Practical items, heartfelt messages
Brazil: Warmth and Togetherness
In Brazil, Father’s Day falls on the second Sunday of August, during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter. It remains a warm and joyful occasion where families come together to celebrate.
- Date: Second Sunday of August
- Tradition: Family barbecues and meaningful time together
Why Celebrate Father’s Day?
Father’s Day is more than a commercial event—it’s a chance to:
- Express appreciation to a dad or father figure
- Strengthen family bonds
- Celebrate values like support, care, love, and presence
Even the simplest gesture—a kind word, a phone call, breakfast in bed—can go a long way.
Unique Ideas to Celebrate Father’s Day
Looking for a meaningful and unique way to celebrate this year? Here are a few thoughtful ideas to delight any dad:
- Matching father-son bow tie sets: What’s more heartwarming than a dad and child wearing matching accessories? At Coo-Mon, we create handmade bow tie sets that highlight the beautiful connection between father and child. Stylish, original, and full of meaning—perfect for marking this special day.
- Create a photo album: Gather your most cherished memories and design a mini photo book or custom frame.
- Share an activity together: Whether it’s cooking, a DIY project, or a nature walk—quality time is the best gift.
- Write a heartfelt letter: A handwritten message from the heart is often the most precious gift. Say what you don’t always say out loud.
- Gift a subscription: Choose something he loves—coffee, wine, books, gadgets. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.
In Conclusion: A Universal Celebration with Local Colors
Whether rooted in religion, family values, or marketing history, Father’s Day is celebrated worldwide. No matter the date or the tradition, the meaning remains the same: honoring those who guide, protect, and inspire us.
At Coo-Mon, we believe every dad deserves something unique. Whether it’s a symbolic gesture, a shared accessory, or a new family tradition—you get to choose how to say “Happy Father’s Day!”