Father's Day is celebrated worldwide as a way to honor the incredible bond between fathers and their children. But have you ever wondered where this beloved tradition comes from? How did this day dedicated to dads get started, and what are some unique facts about its history?  

The History Of Father’s Day  

Father’s Day, as we know it today, may seem like a straightforward celebration, but its history is filled with emotional moments, societal changes, and determined advocates.  

The First Spark For Father’s Day  

Contrary to popular belief, Father’s Day wasn’t created by card companies. Its origins are much more heartfelt. The holiday traces back to the early 20th century in Spokane, Washington. Sonora Smart Dodd, often called the “Mother of Father’s Day,” sought to create a holiday that would honor her father, William Jackson Smart.  

William, a Civil War veteran, was a single parent who raised six children on his own after his wife passed away during childbirth. Sonora’s admiration for his hard work and dedication to his family inspired her to advocate for a day celebrating fathers everywhere.  

The First Celebrated Father’s Day  

Thanks to Sonora’s efforts, the first-ever Father’s Day was observed in Spokane on June 19, 1910. The event included church services, speeches, and small gifts for fathers. While the idea resonated with many, the celebration struggled to gain traction nationally.  

Global Father’s Day Traditions  

Father’s Day is celebrated in many countries, but it isn’t always on the same date or observed in the same way.  

• Germany: Known as “Vatertag,” Father’s Day takes place on Ascension Day. Traditionally, men celebrate with outdoor activities like hiking or picnicking, often accompanied by plenty of food and drink.

• Thailand: Father’s Day is observed on December 5, the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej's birthday. People show appreciation for their fathers and wear yellow, the king’s color.

• Brazil: Dia dos Pais is celebrated on the second Sunday in August. Families gather for church services, feasts, and celebrations honoring their fathers.

• Australia and New Zealand: Here, Father’s Day falls on the first Sunday in September, marking the start of spring in the Southern Hemisphere!

Surprising Facts About Father’s Day  

Now that we know how Father’s Day came to be, here are some lesser-known facts that make this holiday even more special.  

1. It Was Inspired By Mother’s Day

Sonora Smart Dodd introduced the idea of Father’s Day after attending a sermon about Mother’s Day. She believed fathers deserved similar recognition for their contributions to their families.  

2. The World’s Most Expensive Father’s Day Gift

Forget ties and socks! Some extravagant Father’s Day gifts rank among the costliest presents given, such as rare watches or luxury cars. One report cited a $3.2 million yacht gifted by a celebrity!  

3. Father’s Day Is Big Business

Father’s Day is one of the top spending holidays in the U.S. Americans spend over $20 billion annually on gifts like gadgets, tools, sports accessories, and personalized items.  

4. A Guinness Record Was Set On Father’s Day

The largest Father’s Day card was presented in 2019 by an organization in the UAE. The card measured an unbelievable 16,485 square feet!  

5. The Origin Of The Classic Dad Tie

Ties became a popular Father’s Day gift in the 1920s as they symbolized professionalism and status. To this day, a stylish tie remains synonymous with dad gifts.

Make Father’s Day Unforgettable  

This Father’s Day, remember the history and significance behind the celebration. It’s not just about gifts or traditions; it’s about cherishing the unique bond between fathers and their families.