The History of Fathers' Day in the UK

The History of Fathers' Day in the UK

Liza Mirelman

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Father's Day is a day dedicated to celebrating fathers and fatherhood. It is observed on the third Sunday of June in many countries around the world, including the United Kingdom. The history of Father's Day in the UK dates back more than a century, and the holiday has evolved over time to become what we know it as today.

The origins of Father's Day

The origins of Father's Day can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States. In 1909, a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd was listening to a sermon on Mother's Day when she came up with the idea of creating a day to honour fathers. Dodd's father had raised her and her siblings alone after her mother's death, and she wanted to recognise his hard work and dedication.

Dodd's proposal was met with enthusiasm, and the first Father's Day was celebrated in Spokane, Washington, on June 19, 1910. Over time, the holiday gained popularity across the United States, and in 1972, President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation making Father's Day a national holiday.

Fathers' Day Today In The UK

The tradition of celebrating Father's Day gradually spread to other countries, including the United Kingdom. However, the holiday did not become an official holiday in the UK until much later. In fact, it wasn't until 1972 that Father's Day was officially recognised in the UK.

Even before it became an official holiday, however, Father's Day was celebrated in the UK. The day was first observed in the UK in the early 20th century, and it was initially celebrated on June 5, which is the feast day of St. Boniface, the patron saint of fathers.

In the years that followed, Father's Day in the UK was celebrated on different dates. Some people observed the holiday on the third Sunday in June, the same day as in the United States. Others celebrated it on the second Sunday in November, which is still the official date for Father's Day in some countries, including Australia and New Zealand.

Today, Father's Day in the UK is celebrated on the third Sunday in June, just like in the United States. It is a day for children to show their appreciation for their fathers and to thank them for all that they do. Many people give their fathers cards, gifts, and other tokens of appreciation on this day.

In conclusion, Father's Day in the UK has a rich history that dates back more than a century. From its humble beginnings in the United States, the holiday has evolved over time to become a global celebration of fatherhood. Whether you celebrate Father's Day on the third Sunday in June or on a different day, it is a day to honour and appreciate the important role that fathers play in our lives.

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