Father’s Day Celebrations
Father’s Day is a day to celebrate paternal bond or fatherhood. This special day is recognition of the important role that fathers play in their children’s lives. This special occasion is observed in many countries. Albeit it is a commercial holiday, it is sometimes associated with Saint Joseph’s Day. Celebrated once a year, the actual date of Father’s Day is different in different countries.
History
Father’s Day was commissioned in the US, in the beginning of the 20th century, as a counterpart to Mother’s Day. Sonora Dodd is often credited with its establishment in 1910, in Spokane, Washington. It was first celebrated on June 19, 1910, at YMCA in Spokane. Her father, who was a veteran of the Civil War, had raised her five siblings on his own at the YMCA. After hearing a sermon about Mother’s Day, Dodd urged her pastor that fathers should have a similar day. Although Dodd originally wanted Father’s Day to be celebrated on June 5, it was pushed to the third Sunday in June.
Initially, Father’s Day didn’t meet with much success. It is only in the 1930s; Father’s Day started catching up and awareness about it raised on a national scale. This time she had support from various trade groups such as manufacturers of tobacco pipes, ties, shirts, and tool kits. Undoubtedly, these industries were to be benefited most with the popularity of Fathers Day.
By 1938, Dodd had joined forces with the Council for Father’s Day, which was founded in New York by Men’s Wear-Retailers. Despite all these efforts, many Americans continued to resist the celebration of Father’s Day. It was a frequent attack of sarcastic remarks and jokes, heralded by newspapers.
In 1966, the first proclamation honoring Father’s Day was introduced by Lyndon B. Johnson. Following suite, in 1972 President Nixon turned it into a public holiday. Trade groups continued to promote Father’s Day until finally in the mid 1980s, Father’s Day became recognized as a holiday.
Australia
The first Sunday of Spring which occurs on the first Sunday of the September is reserved for Father’s Day. Even though this is not a public holiday, the YMCA in Victoria honors the role of father figures and fathers by holding annual celebrations.
Brazil
In Brazil, Saint Joachim who was the family patriarch is honored on the 2nd Sunday in August. This is not a public holiday, but it is observed and usually involves giving gifts and spending time with father.
Canada and the United States
Father’s Day is celebrated by holding family gatherings and exchanging gifts. Many retailers hold special sales events on items such as electronics, tools, men’s clothing and colognes and even vacation packages. At home, family members usually make a big feast, followed by an outing to the beach, movie theatre or park. In some families, Father’s Day celebration begin with a Church service, followed by a picnic organized either by the Church or community members. A barbecue is usually also thrown into the mix.
Costa Rica
March 19 is reserved for this special day, which is celebrated by honoring Saint Joseph. This was organized in order to give tribute to the saint who was named San Jose, Costa Rica.
Denmark
Father’s Day coincides with the celebration of Constitution Day, on June 5.
Thailand
The king’s birthday coincides with Father’s Day. At present, Father’s Day is celebrated on December 5. Native Thais celebrate this day by offering their grandfather and or father the Canna flower, which is associated with masculinity. The king also gives an annual speech at Sanam Luang, a huge park located in front of the royal palace. Everyone comes dressed in yellow, as a way of respecting the King.
Gift Ideas:
When it comes to buying gifts for Father’s it is really difficult as there are limited options. But here are some suggestions that you can use:
1. Customized gift basket: There is nothing better than gifting a customized gift basket that contains all his favorite stuff. If he loves golf, try and create a golf basket with some golf stick, balls, gears, snacks and nice pair of shades.
2. Sports bar gift card: Surprise your dad with the gift card of his favorite sports bar. This will give him an opportunity to enjoy the game of his favorite team with his favorite drink and group of friends.
Father’s Day celebration has become an important facet of modern culture. Whether you choose to celebrate it by planning an elegant dinner, by giving gifts or attending a Church service be sure to honor your father, as he totally deserves it.