Father’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate the hard work, wisdom, and love dads bring to our lives. Whether you’re in the U.S., Europe, or Australia, it’s a day to honor the special bond between fathers and their children.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the history of Father’s Day, explore cool traditions around the world, and share gift ideas to make this day even better.
Let’s celebrate dads everywhere and the love they give!
The History of Father’s Day
A popular anecdote about Father’s Day is that it dates back to as early as ancient Babylon, where a boy named Elmesu carved a clay card for his father approximately 4000 years ago. However, this story lacks historical evidence and is more of a legend or myth.
The modern Father’s Day celebration began in the early 20th century. Its origins are often attributed to Sonora Smart Dodd from Spokane, Washington. In 1909, she proposed the idea of a Father’s Day after hearing a sermon about Mother’s Day. She was inspired by her own father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran who raised her and her siblings alone after his wife passed away. While there are legends of Father’s Day-like traditions in ancient Babylon, the formal holiday was officially recognized in the United States in 1972.
The first celebration of Father’s Day took place on June 19, 1910, in Spokane, Washington. Dodd’s idea was supported by the local churches and businesses and by the 1920s, it began to spread across the United States, although some critics saw it as a commercial endeavor.
Although Father’s Day was celebrated informally for years, it wasn’t until 1966 that President Lyndon Johnson proclaimed the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day. Finally, in 1972, President Richard Nixon declared it an official national holiday.
Today, Father’s Day is celebrated in various countries with their own specific date, reflecting their varied local customs and traditions.
Why Is Father’s Day Different In Australia?
Father’s Day in Australia is celebrated on the first Sunday of September, while in the United States and the United Kingdom, it falls in June. The choice of the Australian date was influenced by local stores in the 1930s, who saw the spring season as a good time for the celebration and seized it for family-related marketing. This helped officialize the date.
While the holiday originated in the United States, it took on a distinct character in Australia, where it became popular in the mid-20th century. Handmade gifts, family meals, and other personal gestures have become common ways to honor fathers in Australia.
When is Father’s Day Around the World?
Father’s Day is celebrated on different dates worldwide, with the most common date being the third Sunday in June in countries like the United States, Canada, Norway, and the United Kingdom. Some countries have different dates in their calendars, for example:
- March 19: Spain, Italy, and Portugal celebrate Father’s Day on this day to honor St. Joseph.
- First Sunday in September: Australia and New Zealand observe Father’s Day on this day.
- December 5: Thailand celebrates Father’s Day on this date, coinciding with the king’s birthday.
- November 5: In Russia, Father’s Day is observed on the first Sunday in November.
- June 23: Bulgaria celebrates the Day of the Bulgarian Fathers on this date.
- August 8: Singapore celebrates Father’s Day on the second Sunday in August.
- Second Sunday in November: In Finland, Father’s Day is observed on the second Sunday of November.
When is Father’s Day 2025?
Father’s Day in 2025 will be celebrated on Sunday, June 15 in most countries that observe it on the third Sunday of June, such as the US, Canada, and the UK.
In other countries with a different date for Father’s Day, it may be on a different date that year. For example:
- Australia and New Zealand on September 7, 2025.
- Spain, Italy, Portugal on Wednesday, March 19, 2025.
- Thailand will celebrate Father’s Day 2025 on Friday, December 5.
When is Father’s Day Celebrated in Australia?
Father’s Day in Australia will be celebrated on September 7, 2025. This is held on the first Sunday of September every year to enable families to celebrate dads and other father figures during the spring season.
How Father’s Day is Celebrated Around the World
Every country observes Father’s Day with its own traditions and activities. Here’s how different countries celebrate it:
England
Father’s Day in England is celebrated with a variety of activities to honor paternal figures. Families often give gifts, such as ties, socks, or gadgets, and spend quality time together. Common activities include enjoying meals at home or in restaurants, with traditional options like a roast dinner or BBQ. Some families eat out or do outdoor activities, such as countryside walks, sports activities, or even unique adventures like axe throwing.
Ireland
Father’s Day in Ireland is similar to that of England, with shared meals, gift-giving, and spending quality time with family. Many families gather for a traditional Sunday roast or dine out at restaurants. Dads receive homemade cards, and gifts and get to spend time with their loved ones. Some families take advantage of the pleasant summer weather to enjoy outdoor activities like picnics or hikes.
Nepal
Kushe Aunsi is the Nepalese name for Father’s Day and falls on the new moon day of the Nepali month Bhadra, usually in August or September.
It is a tradition that children visit their fathers to offer gifts, and sweets, and perform rituals which may include putting a ‘Tika’ on the father’s forehead or touching the father’s feet as a sign of respect. Married daughters go to their mother’s home to honor their fathers, and there are special ceremonies performed for fathers who have passed on.
South Africa
Father’s Day is a special day of celebration and gifting in South Africa marked by cards, flowers, neckties, and gourmet products. Families organize picnics, traditional South African braais (barbecues), or fishing trips to spend quality time together. These activities show appreciation and love of fathers.
Singapore
Like other celebrations in Singapore, Father’s Day is a blend of outdoor activities and events. Families enjoy outdoor adventures such as hiking, kayaking, or cycling. Dining out is a popular choice for many, with most restaurants having special menus available. Some also like classes such as leather working, while others go to family day events like ‘Dad’s Day Out’ with fun activities like babywearing walks and games.
Philippines
The celebration of Father’s Day is also a family-centered occasion in the Philippines influenced by American culture. Families usually prepare special meals, give gifts, and spend quality time together. Some join outdoor activities such as picnics or barbeque or join any other community activities. Many also honor fathers with heartfelt gestures, such as handmade crafts or letters.
Malaysia
Although it is not an official public holiday, Father’s Day is observed on the third Sunday of June in Malaysia. It is a modest occasion compared to Mother’s Day, where families demonstrate care through card gifts, or by visiting each other. Some families celebrate the day with meals out or other activities.
New Zealand
The celebration of Father’s Day in New Zealand is a time for families to come together and appreciate the role of fathers. Common activities include giving gifts, such as handmade cards or store-bought items, and enjoying family meals or outings. Many families also plan special activities tailored to the father’s interests, such as visiting local attractions or engaging in outdoor adventures.
Father’s Day Traditions and Activities in Australia
Father’s Day in Australia is marked by outdoor activities such as barbecues, picnics, and beach outings, taking advantage of the early spring weather. Families gather to celebrate, and children present their fathers with personalized gifts, tools, or gadgets. The day is a time for family bonding and honoring fathers and father figures.
Best 10 Thoughtful Father’s Day Gift Ideas
Here are some of the best Father’s Day gift ideas that can make Dad feel special:
- Personalized Leather Goods: Leather items that combine style and practicality like wallets, bags, or keychains can be customized with initials or names.
- Tech Gadgets and Accessories: items like smartwatches, wireless chargers, or Bluetooth speakers to improve daily life and keep Dad connected.
- Customized Photo Books or Frames: Create a photo book filled with family memories or choose a personalized frame for a favorite picture.
- Outdoor Adventure Gear: For dads who enjoy the outdoors, gear like camping equipment, hiking backpacks, or portable grills can enhance their adventures.
- Subscription Services: Gift subscriptions to magazines, streaming services, or meal kits
- Handmade or DIY Gifts: Craft something unique, such as a handmade card or a DIY project that shows thoughtfulness and effort.
- Personalized Keepsake Box: A custom keepsake box allows Dad to store mementos and cherished items, and adds sentimental value.
- Experience-Based Gifts: like tickets to a concert, cooking classes, or adventure outings.
- Fitness and Wellness Gifts: Fitness trackers, yoga mats, or massage tools promote health and well-being.
- Customized Apparel: Personalized clothing such as shirts or hats with messages or designs that reflect Dad’s interests can be both fun and practical.
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FAQs About Father’s Day
Father’s Day vs. Mother’s Day: How Do Celebrations Differ Globally?
Mother’s Day, on the second Sunday in May in countries like the US, Canada, and Australia, contrasts with Father’s Day, often in June or September. Mother’s Day emphasizes maternal love and nurturing, with activities like giving flowers, cards, or personal gifts. Father’s Day, centers on paternal contributions and involves outdoor activities, gifting practical items, or family meals. Each holiday reflects unique cultural and societal values.
Is Father’s Day a Public Holiday In Australia?
Father’s Day in Australia is celebrated on the first Sunday of September. While many people take time to celebrate, schools and businesses remain open during regular work hours. So, Father’s Day is not a public holiday in Australia.
These include Thailand on December 5, which also marks the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Lithuania, where it is known as Tėvo diena, and some regions of Spain, where it coincides with St. Joseph’s Day on March 19.
When is Father’s Day in Mexico?
Father’s Day in Mexico is celebrated on the third Sunday of June, similar to many other countries like the United States and Canada. In 2025, it will fall on June 15. While it is not a public holiday, it is widely observed with family gatherings and celebrations to honor fathers and father figures.
When is Father’s Day 2025 in the USA?
Father’s Day in the United States in 2025 will be celebrated on Sunday, June 15.