History of Father’s Day

6 May 2024

Originating from the US, Father’s Day is a day to honour fathers and father figures, such as grandfathers and fathers-in-law. Currently it is celebrated on the third Sunday of June.

Mother’s Day became a commercial holiday in 1908 and was used as an inspiration to also honour the fathers. However, the campaign to celebrate the nation’s fathers did not meet with the same enthusiasm, maybe because, as per one florist, “fathers don’t have the same sentimental appeal that mothers have.”

This is until a woman named Sonora Louise Smart (from Washington) heard a speech in church about Mother's Day and thought dads should also be celebrated. She was raised by her father as her mother died in childbirth with her sixth child.

The idea was accepted in 1909 and it's believed that 19th June 1910 was the first unofficial Father's Day, as reported by BBC. It was not until 56 years later, in 1966, it became an official national holiday.

It’s not a bank holiday. Therefore, in terms of businesses, it is a normal Sunday. However, the restaurants may seem busier than usual as people tend to treat their loved ones by taking them out for a special meal. Some families may also celebrate by planning a day or weekend trip.

There are so many ways to make this day special for dads including giving presents, for example Father’s Day cards, perfumes, football tickets etc but in the recent years the giving of a more Personalised Gift is trending. Not only does it make the gift more unique and special but it also savours the treasured moments and memories by printing photos on gifts. There are a huge variety of products that can be personalised with your chosen photos and text, these include Father’s Day mugs, t-shirts, cushions, beer glasses and much more. Pretty much anything can be personalised these days. Simply choose your product and provide your most memorable photos and/or a personal message to print on it, for example Best Dad Ever, Happy Father’s Day, World’s Best Dad, The Walking Dad (a little twist on words from ‘The Walking Dead’ to add a little humour to your gift) - the options are simply endless.

Shop for a variety of Father’s Day gifts at GPG. If you cannot find a product that you’re looking for, contact us and we’ll see what we can do.

Happy Father’s Day.