This Sunday, June 17th, many families around the globe will celebrate fatherhood and paternal bonds in the annual celebration of Father’s Day. Founded in 1910 by Sonora Smart Dodd, Father’s Day was created to complement the recently established Mother’s Day. Dodd was inspired by her Father’s ability to raise six children as a single parent, and pushed for a public holiday honoring fathers. Though the holiday took several years to gain success, in 1972 US President Richard Nixon designated the third Sunday of June as the permanent national holiday, Father’s Day.
Brazil
In Brazil, Father’s Day occurs three months after Mother’s Day, on the second Sunday of August. The holiday was originally created as a celebration of Saint Joachim, the patriarch of families. Though it is not an official holiday, many Brazilians celebrate the holiday by spending time with their fathers and families.
Germany
Father’s Day in Germany is always celebrated on Ascension Day (marking 40 days after Easter), a federal holiday. Also known as Men’s Day or Gentlemen’s Day, the holiday is often celebrated with a group of males going on a hiking tour with traditional regional food and drink.
Nepal
Father’s Day in Nepal is celebrated in late August or early September depending on the lunar calendar. On the day of the new moon, families go to their temples to pay respect to their deceased fathers.
Thailand
In Thailand, Father’s Day is celebrated as the birthday of the king. As the king is the “father of the nation,” Thais wear yellow on Father’s Day, representing the day the king was born. Thais also celebrate Father’s Day by giving their father or grandfather a Canna flower, which is considered a masculine flower.
Do you have any Father’s Day plans? Let us know! If you are in homestay, be sure to wish your host father a Happy Father’s Day!
