Date: 15th June 2025

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Relevant ‘Heart’ themed resources in ‘Valentine’s Day’…

 

About ‘Father’s Day’

Father’s Day is a special occasion celebrated to honour fathers and father figures for their role in families and society. It is celebrated in many countries around the world, but the date and traditions vary widely. In the UK, Father’s Day is observed on the third Sunday of June each year.

📅 When is Father’s Day in the UK?

  • 2025: Sunday, 15th June

👔 What Is Father’s Day?

Father’s Day is a time to:

  • Show appreciation for fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, and other male caregivers.

  • Celebrate the influence of fatherhood and paternal bonds.

  • Express gratitude through gifts, cards, messages, or spending time together.

It is not a public holiday in the UK, but it is widely celebrated with family gatherings and commercial promotions.

🧭 Origins of Father’s Day

  • The modern version of Father’s Day began in the United States in the early 20th century.

  • It was inspired by the success of Mother’s Day and established as a way to complement that celebration.

  • The idea was popularised by Sonora Smart Dodd in 1910, who wanted to honour her father — a Civil War veteran and single parent.

The UK later adopted the celebration, keeping the same June date as the U.S.

🎁 Common Ways to Celebrate

  • Giving cards or small gifts (e.g., books, tech, tools, or hobby items)

  • Spending quality time (like going out for a meal, a walk, or watching sports together)

  • Children making handmade gifts or drawings

  • Schools and nurseries may host Father’s Day craft activities or assemblies

🌍 ‘Father’s Day’ Dates Around the World

📅 Date 🌐 Country/Region 🎉 Notes

3rd Sunday in June - UK, USA, Canada, India, Japan, France, Netherlands, Ireland (Most widely adopted date)

March 19th - Spain, Italy, Portugal, many Latin American countries (Celebrated on St. Joseph’s Day, honouring the foster father of Jesus)

1st Sunday in September - Australia, New Zealand, Fiji (Linked to Father’s Day traditions from the U.S.)

June 21st (or midsummer) - Germany (Vatertag) (Coincides with Ascension Day; often celebrated with hikes and beer)

June 5th - Denmark (Celebrated with Constitution Day, but is low-key)

1st Sunday in June - Switzerland (Known as “Fête des Pères” in the French-speaking part)

2nd Sunday in August - Brazil (Known for family gatherings and celebrations)

December 5th - Thailand (Coincides with the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej; people wear yellow)

May 8th - South Korea (Part of Parents’ Day, celebrating both mothers and fathers)

🧔 Common Global Traditions

  • Gifts and cards: A common feature almost everywhere.

  • Family meals: From brunches to BBQs, food is often central.

  • Religious services: Particularly in Catholic countries where it’s linked to St. Joseph.

  • Public celebrations: Some countries, like Germany, include parades or public events.

  • School activities: Craft making, songs, and performances for dads.

 

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