Father's Day

Celebrated on 06/21/2026

Quick Fact

Father's Day was first celebrated in Spokane, Washington, on June 19, 1910, thanks to Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to honor her father, a Civil War veteran who raised six children alone. The holiday wasn't officially recognized as a national holiday in the U.S. until 1972, when President Richard Nixon signed it into law. Today, Father's Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June in many countries, with billions of dollars spent on gifts and cards annually.

Origins and Establishment of Father's Day

Father's Day was conceived by Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, in 1909. Inspired by the newly established Mother's Day, she wanted to honor her father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran and single parent who raised six children. The first Father's Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910, at the YMCA in Spokane. However, it took decades for the holiday to gain national traction. In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge recommended it as a national holiday, but it was not until 1966 that President Lyndon B. Johnson issued a 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.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Initially, Father's Day was met with skepticism and even mockery, as some viewed it as a commercial gimmick. Over time, it gained acceptance, particularly after World War II, when it became a way to honor fathers serving in the military. Today, Father's Day is celebrated in over 100 countries, though on different dates. In the United States, it is marked by giving cards, gifts, and spending time with fathers. Common gifts include ties, tools, electronics, and personalized items. Many families also enjoy meals together or organize special activities. The holiday has also expanded to honor stepfathers, grandfathers, and other father figures.

Facts & General Observations

• According to the National Retail Federation, Americans spent an estimated $22.4 billion on Father's Day in 2023, with the average person spending around $196 per gift.
• Father's Day is the fourth most popular day for sending greeting cards in the U.S., with about 72 million cards exchanged annually.
• The rose is the official flower of Father's Day: red roses for living fathers, white for deceased ones.

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