Father's Day isn't just a day for dads to get more ties. It's celebrated on the third Sunday of June to honor dads, grandfathers, step-dads and all men who act as a father figure. Like most holidays that go way back, the origin is hard to trace but most people will agree that Sonora Dodd played a big part in starting the holiday. This year Father's Day is June 19th 2022!
A Little Father's Day History
Sonora Louise Smart Dodd first brought up the idea of a father's day in 1909. She wanted a special day to honor her father, William Smart. When Sonora's mother died in childbirth with her sixth child, William was left to raise the newborn and five other children by himself on a farm in Washington state. As an adult, Sonora realized how strong and unselfish her dad had been raising his kids as a single parent.
Father's Day is a special day to say thanks to your Dad - and all the Dads!
Sonora wanted Father's Day to be celebrated on the first Sunday in June, because it was close to her dad's birthday. Instead, the first Father's Day celebration took place on June 19, 1910 in Spokane, Washington. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson made the third Sunday of June Father's Day. It wasn't until 1972 that President Richard Nixon made Father's Day a national holiday - about 60 years after Mother's Day had been made a national holiday.
Favorite Sayings by Dads
- Go ask your mother!
- Just wait until I get you home!
- When I was your age....
- My father used to tell me...
- I used to walk to school in the snow!
- Be home early.
Looking for the perfect gift? Dads say some of the best Father's Day gifts have been tools, electronics and homemade gifts. Try to stay away from ties, socks, and go for something more fun!
What will you get your Dad this Father's Day?
