Surprising Facts That You Didn’t Know About Father’s Day

If you think about it, there’s a holiday and a celebration for a lot of things, be it something random or something specific. Ice Cream Day, Hug Your Cat Day, Hug Your Dog Day, and even Public Sleeping Day.

Let’s not forget Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Like many of these celebrations, Father’s Day is a day to honor fathers and father figures all around this blue marble.

In most places, Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June. However, in other countries, this day is celebrated at other times of the year. Regardless of where, when, or how this event is celebrated, this special day is all about honoring our fathers. But what else do you know about Father’s Day?

1. The first Father’s Day was celebrated in 1910: Sonora Louise Smart Dodd advocated for a day to celebrate fathers to honor her father, a Civil War veteran. While she suggested his birthday on June 5th, the organization settled on the third Sunday in June.
2. It was not recognized as a national holiday until 1972: While President Calvin Coolidge promoted the concept in 1924 and Lyndon Johnson endorsed the June date in 1966, it wasn't until President Nixon officially signed it into law in 1972.
3. In Thailand, Father’s Day is also the King’s birthday: National Father's Day is celebrated on December 5th, the late King Bhumibol’s birthday. Schools and businesses close so people can celebrate across the country.
4. Germans celebrate with beer and traditional food: Known as Männertag or Vatertag, this public holiday happens on Christian Ascension Day and involves plenty of delicious food and cold beer outdoors.
5. The Rose is the official flower of the celebration: A red rose is traditionally used to honor fathers who are still alive, whereas a white rose is used to honor those who have passed away.
6. It is one of the largest holidays for sending cards: According to Hallmark, about 72 million Father's Day greeting cards are purchased each year, making it the fourth most popular card-sending holiday.