Father-in-Law Day

Father-in-Law Day is a wonderful occasion to build a stronger, more meaningful relationship with your father-in-law. Life moves quickly, and it’s not worth wasting time on resentment or misunderstandings. Instead, be kind, open-hearted, and communicative. Behind a serious exterior, there is often someone who simply wants to connect. A conversation, a small gesture, or a bit of attention can show how much he means to you.

History

There are several stories about how this holiday appeared on the calendar. One version traces it to the 19th century, when European monarchs Christian IX of Denmark and Nicholas I of Russia became notable fathers-in-law after their children married into foreign royal families. Another version suggests the holiday was promoted by a greeting card company, which introduced a card specifically designed to celebrate fathers-in-law.

Interesting Facts

Many well-known individuals have also been fathers-in-law:

• Poet W. H. Auden married German writer Erika Mann, making Nobel Prize-winning author Thomas Mann his father-in-law.
• Actor Anthony Quinn was married to Katherine DeMille, the adopted daughter of director Cecil B. DeMille.
• Singer Pat Boone married Shirley Foley, daughter of country music star Red Foley.
• Kirk Douglas was the father-in-law of Catherine Zeta-Jones, who married his son Michael Douglas in 2000.
• Elvis Presley became father-in-law to both Michael Jackson and Nicolas Cage through his daughter Lisa Marie’s marriages—though both ended in divorce.

How to Take Part

You can keep it simple and send your father-in-law a thoughtful greeting card. Or go further—join him in his favorite activity, whether it’s fishing, watching sports, cooking, or going for a walk. Remember, this man raised the person you love—acknowledging that with gratitude can go a long way.

When is Father-in-Law Day in 2025?

Father-in-Law Day is observed on July 30 each year.

Observations