Father’s Day is a time to celebrate the dads, stepdads, grandfathers, and father figures who’ve shaped our lives. While it might seem like a straightforward holiday of grilling, ties, and handmade cards, there’s more to it than meets the eye. Here are 9 things you might not know about Father’s Day:
1. It Was Inspired by Mother’s Day
Father’s Day came on the heels of Mother’s Day. After the success of the first official Mother’s Day in 1908, people began to suggest a similar holiday to honor fathers. The idea didn’t take off right away but eventually gained traction.
2. The First Father’s Day Was in 1910
The first known Father’s Day celebration was held in Spokane, Washington on June 19, 1910. It was organized by Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to honor her father, a Civil War veteran and single parent who raised six children.
3. It Took 58 Years to Become a National Holiday
Despite the early efforts, Father’s Day wasn’t officially recognized as a national holiday until 1972. President Richard Nixon signed it into law, making it a permanent celebration on the third Sunday in June.
4. It’s Celebrated Differently Around the World
While the U.S. celebrates Father’s Day in June, other countries have different dates. For example, Australia and New Zealand celebrate it in September, while many Catholic countries like Spain and Italy observe it on March 19, St. Joseph’s Day.
5. It’s One of the Busiest Days for Phone Calls
According to phone companies, Father’s Day sees a huge spike in phone traffic. Unlike Mother’s Day, which gets more in-person visits, people are more likely to call their dads—making it one of the year’s busiest days for phone calls.
6. It Boosts Sales
While not quite as commercial as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day is still big business. Americans spend over $20 billion on Father’s Day gifts each year, ranging from tech gadgets and tools to gift cards and experiences.
7. It Honors More Than Just Biological Dads
Many people use the holiday to celebrate all kinds of father figures: stepfathers, foster dads, mentors, grandfathers, and even older brothers who stepped into the role. It’s a day to recognize all the men who’ve made a difference.
8. The Rose is Its Official Flower
The rose is the traditional flower of Father’s Day. Wearing a red rose signifies that your father is living, while a white rose honors a deceased dad. Though less popular today, it was once a widely observed tradition.
9. It’s Gaining Emotional Ground
For a long time, Father’s Day was treated more lightly than Mother’s Day. But that’s changing. More people now use it as an opportunity to reflect, express appreciation, and talk about the role fathers play in emotional development and family life.
Whether you’re planning to celebrate with a backyard BBQ, a heartfelt card, or just a simple call, Father’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a chance to say thank you to the men who’ve helped shape us.
Happy Father’s Day!