Who founded Father's Day?

Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, held the first celebration in 1910 to honor her father, a Civil War veteran who raised six children.

When did it become an official holiday?

President Nixon signed it into law in 1972, more than fifty years after Mother's Day was recognized.

Do other countries celebrate on the same day?

Many, including the UK and Canada, use the third Sunday of June, while others such as Australia celebrate in September.

How many days until Father's Day?

Father's Day 2026 is on Sunday, June 21, 2026. In 2027 it falls on Sunday, June 20, 2027.

US Father's Day is the third Sunday of June, made a permanent national holiday in 1972.

Father's Day honors fathers, grandfathers and father figures, often with a barbecue, a round of golf, a favorite meal or a small gift. It arrives just as summer begins, so many families combine it with an outdoor day. Knowing the date ahead of time gives you room to order something personal, plan a day trip, or just make sure everyone is free to call or visit.

Father's Day in the next five years

Year	Date	Weekday
2026	June 21	Sunday
2027	June 20	Sunday
2028	June 18	Sunday
2029	June 17	Sunday
2030	June 16	Sunday

Facts about Father's Day

Sonora Smart Dodd organized an early Father's Day in Spokane, Washington, in 1910.
President Lyndon Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation for Father's Day in 1966.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Father's Day?: Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, held the first celebration in 1910 to honor her father, a Civil War veteran who raised six children.
When did it become an official holiday?: President Nixon signed it into law in 1972, more than fifty years after Mother's Day was recognized.
Do other countries celebrate on the same day?: Many, including the UK and Canada, use the third Sunday of June, while others such as Australia celebrate in September.

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