The Origins and Traditions of Father’s Day Around the World

Feature image: Title: Þórður Guðjohnsen, Húsavík, with his children. Date: ca. 1900 Place: Húsavík (Iceland) c Wikimedia Commons.

Father’s Day is a celebration embraced by families across the globe, but its origins and traditions are more diverse than many realize. While the modern incarnation of Father’s Day has American roots, different cultures celebrate fathers in unique ways and at different times of the year.

The American Beginning

The widely recognized origin of modern Father’s Day began in the United States. The key figure behind this movement was Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington. In 1909, after hearing a Mother’s Day sermon, Sonora was inspired to create a similar holiday to honour her father, William Jackson Smart. A Civil War veteran and widower, William raised six children on his own, and Sonora wanted to acknowledge his dedication.

Thanks to her efforts, the first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910. Although originally proposed for June 5 (William’s birthday), the date was moved to allow more preparation time. Over the decades, the idea gained popularity, eventually receiving official recognition: in 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson issued a proclamation, and in 1972, President Richard Nixon made it a permanent national holiday, celebrated annually on the third Sunday of June.

The UK: An American Influence

In the United Kingdom, Father’s Day is also celebrated on the third Sunday in June. However, unlike Mother’s Day—which has religious roots in the UK’s “Mothering Sunday“—Father’s Day was largely imported from the United States after World War II. British retailers and media promoted the holiday in much the same way as in the U.S., and it gradually became a cultural fixture.

Catholic Europe: Saint Joseph’s Day

In many Catholic countries such as Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Croatia, Father’s Day is celebrated on March 19, coinciding with Saint Joseph’s Day. Saint Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, is regarded as a model of paternal care and devotion. This celebration dates back to the Middle Ages, long before the American version was conceived.

The day often includes religious observances, family meals, and traditional treats, depending on the region. It is a solemn yet warm celebration of fatherhood, deeply embedded in the religious calendar.

Germany: Vatertag with a Twist

Germany offers one of the most unique Father’s Day celebrations, known as Vatertag. It is observed on Ascension Day, which falls 40 days after Easter. Traditionally, men embark on hikes through the countryside, pulling wagons loaded with beer and food. This “men’s day out” has grown into a social event that emphasizes male bonding more than paternal duties. Though light-hearted, Vatertag still honours fatherhood in its own way.

A Global Celebration with Local Flavor

Though the idea of celebrating fathers has become nearly universal, the dates, customs, and meanings behind the celebrations vary widely. Whether it’s rooted in religion, personal tribute, or social tradition, Father’s Day reflects the diverse ways we value and recognize fatherhood.

From the heartfelt legacy of a daughter in Washington State to the joyful parades of beer-laden wagons in Germany, the global story of Father’s Day is a testament to the importance of dads everywhere—in every culture, in every form.

So, whether you’re gifting a steampunk tie, raising a toast on a hillside, or sharing a quiet moment of gratitude, take a moment this Father’s Day to celebrate the dads who make a difference.

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Steampunk & Thoughtful: Father’s Day Gift Ideas from Etsy

If you’re looking for a unique gift that celebrates your dad’s quirks and creativity, Etsy has you covered. Here are some thoughtful and steampunk-inspired picks:

• Steampunk Cufflinks – Elegant with a mechanical twist, perfect for a dad who likes to dress with flair.

• Custom Engraved Pocket Watch – A timeless (pun intended) classic with Victorian charm.

• Handmade Leather Journals – Great for dads who like to write, sketch, or just look distinguished at the coffee shop.

• Gadget-Inspired Desk Decor – From retro clocks to gear-shaped pen holders, turn his workspace into a curiosity cabinet.

* Etsy User Photographs are shared here, with the authorisation granted to Etsy and their partners under section 5c of Etsy’s terms of use to promote Etsy, its services and its products.

Support small creators and make your gift as memorable as the man you’re celebrating. You can browse these gift ideas and more on Etsy’s Father’s Day Gifts Hub and you can get deals UP TO 30% OFF for your #1 Dad! Save on kitchen tools, travel accessories, and more.

Ends 16 June at 11:59 PM EST. Participating shops only. Offer subject to change by sellers. See individual shops for details.

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