Tereza Ruzickova
6 min 
Even though there’s a special day to celebrate it, the truth is we have 365 chances every year to tell our father (or the person who’s played that role in our lives) how important they are. Whether it’s a quick “thank you”, a surprise hug or an unexpected call, any moment is the right time to show love and appreciation. 💙
But… have you ever wondered where this celebration comes from? Because it’s not just another date on the calendar or an excuse to buy a tie. Father’s Day has a story full of love, initiative… and even a touch of marketing!
📜 The origin of Father’s Day: it all started with a woman
The official story takes us to the United States, specifically to the year 1909. There lived a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to honour her father, a war veteran who raised his six children alone after his wife passed away.
Inspired by her father’s bravery and dedication, Sonora thought, “If there’s a Mother’s Day, why not celebrate fathers too?” She suggested celebrating on 19th June, her father’s birthday. And so, in 1910, the first Father’s Day was held in Spokane, Washington.
Did you know…? Although it wasn’t as successful as Mother’s Day at first, it slowly gained popularity thanks to the support of churches, associations, and—of course—commercial brands, who saw a golden opportunity to promote gift giving.
🙏 And in Catholic countries? Enter Saint Joseph
In many Catholic countries like Spain, Italy or Portugal, the date doesn’t match the American one. In these places, Father’s Day is celebrated on 19th March, the day of Saint Joseph, Jesus’s “adoptive” father.
Saint Joseph is seen as a role model: a humble, hardworking and protective father. That’s why in these countries, the father figure is associated with values like responsibility, silent affection and constant dedication. Even if he’s not the main character in many stories, his role is essential.
🏫 And what about Spain? It all began in a classroom
The story of Father’s Day in Spain is sweet and very “made in Spain”. It all started in 1948, when a schoolteacher from Madrid named Manuela Vicente Ferrero (also known as “Nely”) decided to organise a special day for her students to honour their fathers—just like they did for their mothers.
She chose 19th March, Saint Joseph’s Day, because of its symbolic meaning. After publishing her idea in a local newspaper… surprise! It was a hit. So much so that José Fernández Rodríguez, the owner of the famous Galerías Preciados department stores, supported the idea with an advertising campaign.
The result? Father’s Day quickly spread across Spain and became a special date in both family life and the shopping calendar. 🎁
🌍 Father’s Day around the world: fun facts
Each country celebrates in its own unique way, and here are some fun facts that might surprise you:
- In Thailand, Father’s Day is on 5th December, the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. People usually give canna flowers, a symbol of masculinity.
- In Germany, it’s called Vatertag or “Men’s Day”, and it’s celebrated on Ascension Day (40 days after Easter). It’s traditional for groups of men to go on outdoor beer wagon trips—yes, really!
- In South Korea, there’s no Father’s Day as such. Instead, they celebrate Parents’ Day (Eobeoi Nal) on 8th May, honouring both parents with flowers, letters, and gifts.
- In Russia, Father’s Day overlaps with Defender of the Fatherland Day (23rd February), a tribute to men, especially those who served in the military.
As you can see, there’s no single way to celebrate fathers, but there is one thing they all have in common: gratitude, love and respect!
🎈 And you? How do you celebrate it?
Every family has its own traditions. Some prepare special meals, others give personalised gifts, and some just spend quality time together.
But beyond presents or Instagram posts, the real gift is a heartfelt moment to talk, share funny memories, or simply say: “thanks for being there.”
If you’re far from your family—maybe studying abroad in Spain—a video call might be the perfect gift. Or even better: a handwritten letter, which often says more than a thousand digital words.
🎥 Want to do something original this year?
Here are some budget-friendly ideas to celebrate Father’s Day creatively (great for students!):
- 🎬 Make a short video sharing your favourite memories or thanking him for everything he’s done.
- 🍽️ Cook his favourite dish (if you’re home) or send him a Spanish recipe to try if you’re abroad.
- 📱 Record a fun TikTok together if he’s into it—no one’s ever too old for that!
- 💌 Write him a letter in Spanish if he’s learning with you. It’s a fun way to practise the language together!
🎊 Happy Father’s Day to dads around the world!
Whatever their accent, wherever they live, whether they wear a moustache or not, whether they love football or chess… today we celebrate all those who’ve been there for us through thick and thin. 💪
Because being a father isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most beautiful jobs in the world. So, if you’re lucky enough to have one close, make the most of it! And if your father figure is someone else (a mum, uncle, grandfather, friend…), today is also their day.
Happy Father’s Day!
Thanks for guiding us, supporting us, and being a role model. And if you’re learning Spanish, now you know about one of its most important cultural celebrations! 😉
