Father’s Day, celebrated annually on the third Sunday of June in many parts of the world, is a special occasion dedicated to honoring fathers and father figures.
While many people are familiar with its modern traditions of giving cards, gifts, and spending quality time with dad, there are numerous intriguing aspects of this holiday that are less well-known. Here are seven little-known facts about Father’s Day that may surprise you.
1. The Idea Originated from a Woman
It might be surprising to learn that a woman, Sonora Smart Dodd, is credited with founding Father’s Day.
Inspired by Mother’s Day, which had become an official holiday in 1914, Dodd wanted to create a similar day to honor her father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran and single parent who raised six children on his own.
Dodd’s campaign to establish Father’s Day began in Spokane, Washington, and in 1910, the first Father’s Day celebration was held there.
2. The Path to National Recognition Was Long
Although the first Father’s Day was celebrated in 1910, it took several decades for it to gain national recognition. In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge supported the idea, but it wasn’t until 1966 that President Lyndon B.
Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation designating the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day. Finally, in 1972, President Richard Nixon signed it into law as a permanent national holiday.
3. The Holiday Has Ancient Roots
While Father’s Day as we know it is relatively modern, the idea of honoring fathers has ancient roots. In Catholic Europe, Saint Joseph’s Day has been celebrated since the Middle Ages as a day to honor Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus.
This celebration, held on March 19th, is still observed in many countries, particularly those with a strong Catholic heritage, such as Italy and Spain.
4. Different Dates Around the World
Father’s Day is not universally celebrated on the same date. For example, in many European and Latin American countries, Father’s Day is celebrated on March 19th, coinciding with Saint Joseph’s Day.
In Australia and New Zealand, it’s celebrated on the first Sunday of September. In Thailand, Father’s Day is celebrated on December 5th, which is the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who was widely regarded as the father of the nation.
5. It Was Initially Met with Resistance
Father’s Day faced considerable resistance in its early years. Many men viewed it as an attempt to commercialize their role and felt it was unnecessary to have a special day to honor fathers. Some critics even derided it as a “second Christmas” for retailers.
Despite this opposition, the holiday gradually gained acceptance, particularly as societal views on fatherhood and family roles evolved.
6. The Role of the Necktie
One of the most enduring traditions associated with Father’s Day is giving neckties as gifts. This tradition likely stems from the early 20th century when neckties were a popular and practical gift for men.
Over time, the necktie became a symbol of the holiday, representing both the father’s traditional role in the workforce and the idea of a “classic” gift. Today, though the range of gifts has expanded significantly, the necktie remains an iconic Father’s Day present.
7. The Economic Impact
Father’s Day has a significant economic impact, though not as substantial as some other holidays like Christmas or Mother’s Day. In the United States, consumers spend billions of dollars annually on Father’s Day gifts, dining out, and other celebrations.
Common gifts include electronics, tools, clothing, and special experiences such as tickets to sporting events or outdoor adventures. The holiday also provides a boost to certain sectors of the economy, particularly those related to retail and dining.
Father’s Day 2025
Father’s Day is a celebration honoring fathers and father figures, recognizing their contributions and influence in families and society. It typically involves giving gifts, cards, and spending quality time together.
Celebrated on different dates worldwide, many countries, including the United States, observe it on the third Sunday in June.
In North America, Father’s Day is on Sunday, June 15th, 2025.
Summary
Father’s Day is a celebration with a rich history and a diverse range of traditions worldwide. From its origins in Spokane, Washington, to its various dates of observance around the globe, the holiday has evolved significantly since Sonora Smart Dodd first conceived the idea.
Whether it’s through giving a necktie, sharing a meal, or simply spending time together, Father’s Day offers a meaningful opportunity to appreciate and honor the fathers and father figures who play such an important role in our lives.
By learning more about the lesser-known aspects of this holiday, we can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of its significance.
