7 Surprising Father’s Day Facts You Probably Never Knew

1. Father’s Day Has Deep Roots—and Varies Around the World

While North American Father’s Day is a modern creation, the concept dates back to the Middle Ages in Europe. Catholics celebrated Saint Joseph’s Day on March 19 to honor the foster father of Jesus (the ultimate stepdad)—a tradition still observed in countries like Spain, Italy, and France.

Today, Father’s Day is celebrated around the world on different dates:

• June in Canada and the U.S.

• September in Australia and New Zealand

• December in Thailand (on the King’s birthday)

No matter the timing, the meaning remains the same: honoring fatherhood and connection.

2. It Was Controversial at First

While Mother’s Day quickly gained popularity, Father’s Day struggled to find its place. Many dismissed it as unnecessary or too commercial. But for families who wanted to honor their fathers, the meaning was deeply personal.

One story that stands out is that of Grace Golden Clayton, who organized a service in 1908 in West Virginia to remember the 361 men—many of them fathers—who died in a mining accident. Though her event didn’t lead to a national movement, it reflected the growing desire to recognize the role of fathers in family and community life.

In the end, it wasn’t just retailers or politicians who made Father’s Day happen—it was people like Grace and Sonora Smart Dodd, who believed that dads deserved their own day of gratitude.

3. There’s an Official Flower for Father’s Day

Yes, just like moms get carnations, dads get roses. A red rose signifies a living father, while a white rose is worn in remembrance of a father who has passed.

4. Dads Get Love—But Moms Still Win the Gift Game

In 2024, Americans were expected to spend $22.4 billion on Father’s Day gifts—mostly on clothing, tools, and special outing gear.

But compare that to Mother’s Day, which raked in a massive $33.5 billion—dominated by flowers, brunches, and jewelry. Dads may be catching up, but moms still rule the retail world.

5. There’s a Father’s Day Song

Although it doesn’t have an official anthem, a few classics capture the spirit of the day. “Dance With My Father” by Luther Vandross and “Father and Son” by Cat Stevens are timeless tracks that tug at the heartstrings every June.

6. It’s a Big Day for Phone Calls

Phone companies report that Father’s Day is one of the busiest days for collect calls—especially back in the pre-cellphone days. Even now, it remains one of the most popular days to pick up the phone and check in with dad.

7. There Was Almost Just “Parents’ Day” Instead

In the 1920s and ’30s, there was a real push to combine Mother’s Day and Father’s Day into one unified celebration: Parents’ Day. Led by children’s radio entertainer Robert Spere, the idea was to avoid dividing affection between two holidays.

His suggested slogan? “A kiss for mother, a hug for dad.” The movement faded in the 1940s—but it’s a sweet what-if in the history of family traditions.