- Third Sunday of June in many countries
- First kept in 1910
- 19 March in parts of Europe
Where it began
In many Catholic countries, fathers have long been honoured on 19 March, the feast of Saint Joseph. Spain, Italy and Portugal still keep Father's Day on that date.
The modern day began in the United States. Sonora Smart Dodd, raised by her father after her mother died, held the first Father's Day in Spokane, Washington, on 19 June 1910.
A memorial service for fathers had also been held in Fairmont, West Virginia, in 1908. The idea spread slowly, and the third Sunday of June became the official date in the United States in 1972.
How it grew over time
Middle Ages
Catholic Europe honours fathers on the feast of Saint Joseph, 19 March.
1908
A service for fathers is held in Fairmont, West Virginia.
1910
Sonora Smart Dodd holds the first Father's Day in Spokane, Washington.
1972
The third Sunday of June becomes a permanent national day in the United States.
Today
Families in many countries mark the day with cards, meals and time together.
How it is celebrated in different places
India
Children cook, give cards and small gifts, and share old photos with their fathers.
Spain and Italy
Father's Day falls on Saint Joseph's Day, 19 March, with sweets made for the day.
Germany
Men's Day, also called Father's Day, falls on Ascension Day, and groups go on walks and outings.
Thailand
Father's Day is on 5 December, the birthday of the late King Bhumibol.
Father's Day moments
Father's Day today
Today Father's Day is a gentle day of thanks. Families share a meal, go on an outing or make a call, and many also honour grandfathers, uncles and teachers who stood in as fathers.
