Father’s Day is a holiday dedicated to honoring fathers and father figures, celebrated in various countries worldwide. The origins of the holiday can be traced back to the United States, specifically to Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, who is credited with creating the observance in the early 20th century. Inspired while listening to a sermon on Mother’s Day, Dodd sought to establish a day to honor her father, a Civil War veteran who raised her and her siblings after their mother passed away. The first official Father’s Day celebration took place on June 19, 1910, aligning with her father’s birth month.
The recognition of Father’s Day gained momentum over the years, particularly after U.S. President Calvin Coolidge expressed his support for the holiday in 1924. Legislative action came in 1972 when President Richard Nixon signed a bill that established the third Sunday in June as the national observance for Father’s Day. Traditionally, this day is celebrated with family gatherings, cards, gifts, and meals together.
Interestingly, while many countries honor Father’s Day in June, several nations choose different dates for their celebrations. For instance, many Catholic countries observe the holiday on March 19, coinciding with the feast day of St. Joseph, who is regarded as the earthly father of Jesus.
In addition to the gift-giving traditions, which have often commercialized the holiday, some customs persist that symbolize a deeper appreciation for fathers. People may wear a red rose to signify that their father is alive, whereas a white rose is worn to remember those who have passed away. It’s also a day when other male figures, such as grandfathers or uncles who have taken on paternal roles, are recognized.
As Father’s Day approaches, it serves as a reminder of the crucial roles that fathers and father figures play in our lives, allowing families to come together and express gratitude and love. This year, as the holiday nears, many are encouraged to not only celebrate their biological fathers but also to appreciate all those who have fulfilled fatherly roles, forging strong familial bonds.