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18 Short Facts about Father’s Day Celebration You’ll Want to Know
Apr
Origin
Father’s Day originated in the United States. The first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910, in Spokane, Washington. However, it wasn’t until 1972 that Father’s Day was officially recognized as a national holiday in the U.S., signed into law by President Richard Nixon.
Inspiration
The idea for Father’s Day celebration is credited to Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to honor her father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran and single father who raised six children on his own.
Date
Father’s Day is celebrated on different dates around the world. While many countries, including the U.S., celebrate it on the third Sunday of June, others observe it on different dates. For example, in Australia and New Zealand, Father’s Day is celebrated on the first Sunday in September.
Gifts
Father’s Day is a major retail holiday, with billions of dollars spent on gifts each year. Common gifts include cards, ties, tools, electronics, and personalized items. However, more unique and unconventional gifts are becoming increasingly popular.
Most Common Gift
According to surveys, the most common Father’s Day gift is a greeting card. Greeting card always lies among the top Father’s Day gifts every year. It’s estimated that millions of Father’s Day cards are exchanged each year.
Father’s Day Spending
In the United States, Father’s Day spending has been steadily increasing over the years. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans spent a record-breaking $17 billion on Father’s Day gifts in 2021.
Honoring Father Figures
Father’s Day is not only about biological fathers but also about honoring father figures, including stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other men who play a significant role in children’s lives.
Global Celebration
While the date and customs may vary, Father’s Day is celebrated in many countries around the world, including the UK, Canada, India, Japan, and Brazil, among others.
Spending Trends
Father’s Day spending tends to be slightly less than Mother’s Day spending in many countries. However, it’s still a significant retail holiday, with families spending billions of dollars on gifts, meals, and outings.
Father’s Day History in Other Countries
While the modern Father’s Day originated in the U.S., other countries have their own histories of honoring fathers. For example, Catholic countries in Europe have long celebrated St. Joseph’s Day on March 19 as a day to honor fathers.
Charitable Giving
Some people choose to celebrate Father’s Day by giving back to their communities or supporting charitable causes. This could involve volunteering, making donations in honor of fathers, or participating in fundraising events.
Father’s Day Events
Many communities organize special events and activities for Father’s Day, such as car shows, barbecues, sporting events, and family-friendly festivals. These events provide opportunities for families to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.
Father’s Day Around the World
While some countries celebrate Father’s Day on the same date as the United States (third Sunday of June), others have chosen different dates. For example, Spain celebrates Father’s Day on March 19, which coincides with St. Joseph’s Day.
Father’s Day Symbols
In addition to the rose, other symbols associated with Father’s Day include neckties, tools, fishing gear, and barbecue grills. These items often appear on greeting cards, gifts, and decorations for the holiday.
