Father’s Day

The origin of Father’s Day is often traced to Sonora Smart Dodd. In 1909, after hearing a Mother’s Day sermon, she wondered why mothers were honored on a specific day while fathers were not. Raised by her father, she felt it was important for fathers to have a day of recognition as well. Dodd approached the Spokane Ministerial Alliance and suggested June 5, her father’s birthday, as a day to honor fathers nationwide. The Alliance chose the third Sunday in June instead.

Father’s Day can be observed in many simple ways. Call your dad or, if possible, visit him and tell him how much you appreciate him. Give a card or a small gift, spend time together doing something he enjoys, or plan a relaxed day at home. However you spend it, the focus is on gratitude and time together.

Interesting Facts About Father’s Day

Here are a few widely shared facts about how Father’s Day developed in the United States.

• In 1910, one of the first Father’s Day celebrations took place in Spokane, Washington.
• In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson supported the idea of a national Father’s Day but did not issue an official proclamation.
• In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day.
• In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation making Father’s Day a permanent national observance.
• The United States has tens of millions of fathers.

Father’s Day Jokes

Some light, family-friendly jokes are often shared on Father’s Day.

• Father’s Day was near when I brought my three-year-old son, Tyler, to the card store. Inside, I showed him the cards for dads and told him to pick one. Tyler quickly opened one card after another and shoved them back. “Tyler, haven’t you found a nice card for Daddy yet?” I asked. He replied, “No, I’m looking for one with money in it.”

• How do fathers exercise on the beach? They suck in their stomachs every time they see a bikini.
• How do you know your dad is planning for the future? He buys two cases of beer instead of one.
• A teacher is on the phone and says, “You say Michael has a cold and can’t come to school today? To whom am I speaking?” The voice replies, “This is my father.”

Father’s Day Quotes

These quotations are often shared to mark the day.

• “My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person: he believed in me.” Jim Valvano
• “I’m a father; that’s what matters most. Nothing matters more.” Gordon Brown
• “It is a wise father that knows his own child.” William Shakespeare
• “I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father’s protection.” Sigmund Freud
• “You don’t have to deserve your mother’s love. You have to deserve your father’s.” Robert Frost

How to Take Part in Father’s Day

Father’s Day is often observed by spending time together and planning activities your dad enjoys.

• Go to the park for a family picnic or barbecue.
• Play a round of golf together at a nearby course.
• Travel to a lake or river and go fishing.
• Stay home and serve your father breakfast in bed if he is not already awake.

Even small gestures can make the day feel meaningful.

June is also associated with many other observances, including Adopt-a-Cat Month, Pride Month, Great Outdoors Month, National Candy Month, and National Zoo and Aquarium Month.

When Is Father’s Day in 2026?

Father’s Day is celebrated annually on the third Sunday in June.

Observations