What Is the History of Father's Day? (Plus a Shamrock Craic Gift Guide)
Posted by Adam Farley on 4th Jun 2020
Father's Day is just around the corner. Do you know the history of the special holiday?
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Father’s Day was originally celebrated in the United States in 1910. A woman in Spokane, Washington named Sonora Smart Dobb wanted to thank her Father with a special day of fatherhood. Dodd's mother had died when she was 16 and upon hearing a sermon in honor of Mother's Day in May felt that a day of recognition should be held in honor of fathers as well. Thus, the first Father's Day was held as a small local affair on June 19, 1910, and by 1916, President Woodrow Wilson had heard of this new celebration and sent an official telegram of support for the services to Spokane. Eventually, social welfare groups made the practice occur all over the globe, including Ireland.
It's no surprise that in the intervening 100-plus years US traditions made their way to Ireland. Children thank their fathers for the dedication they have in their upbringing. They might give their Dads fresh flowers, cards, candy, pastries, or cook something special themselves. Fathers also get gifts like wallets, ties, apparel, books, and other gadgets. Some people take their Dads to restaurants or help them with yard work. Roman Catholics celebrate Father’s Day as Saint Joseph’s Day.
Catholics celebrated the Feast of Saint Joseph in the early centuries. This was many years before Father's Day came to be. Irish and Polish communities around the world recognized the day as March 19.
If you're looking for ideas of how to celebrate Father's Day, here are some of our favorites.
No Stress! The best thing is to have your Father not feel any pressure on Father’s day. The day doesn’t need to be perfect. He might appreciate not having any kind of deadline or hassle. He might like not having chores to do as well. The best thing to do is to let him relax.
Spend time together. Just enjoy your Father’s company. This seems very simple but it's easy to get sidetracked. If you have to leave the host do so, but focus on being a family. Do things like going for a family walk, do a picnic or share stories about your lives. That’s a great way to celebrate with Dad!
Make romance. Honor your partner as well if you have children together. Make him feel special and give him something he will enjoy. It's not all about the kids, even on Father’s Day!
Let him be the focus. Don’t plan everything out, give him freedom and choice of what he wants to do. If he’s a sports fan, maybe take him to a game. Go with him fishing if that’s what he loves to do. If he wants to be alone for a few hours, give him that as well. He deserves it!
Praise him. Fathers need to be appreciated. Tell him how great of a Dad he is and that you need him in your life. Detail how he contributes. Let him know what makes him a great Father and partner. Give him gratitude.
FATHER'S DAY GIFT GUIDE
Mens Half-Zip Aran Fisherman Sweater
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This gorgeous and warm jumper features the Aran classic patterns of cable and trellis stitches, which are rich in history and meaning. Cable stitches represent wishes for safe and prolific voyages for fishermen, and the trellis symbolizes the fields of the Aran Islands. The 100% pure, organic Merino wool is one of the earth's softest fabrics, so the sweater feels lovely to touch. The ribbed high zippered collar can be worn opened or closed, creating a sporty look that looks especially stylish when paired with a scarf!
Merino Wool Aran Sweater for Men
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This warm crewneck sweater from Saol is the perfect antidote to the cold. Merino wool has many amazing features, but its main benefit is that it's one of the few types of wool that manages to be super-strong and durable, yet also luxuriously soft without the scratchiness that usually accompanies wool clothing. In sum, it's comfortably wearable. This handsome fisherman sweater knit in iconic Aran cable patterns delivers that very rich quality and poshness. Check out the full collection of Aran Sweaters here.
Gaelic Whiskey Set by Mulligar Pewter
Full of vintage charm with a dash of modern shine, this pewter whiskey flask from the geniuses at Mullingar Pewter allows anyone to enjoy his favorite whiskey with charming style! A charming 8-ounce hip flask that is hand-engraved with lovely Celtic Knot designs. Made of polished pewter and made in Ireland. Packaged in a compact cherry wood box with protective, soft, red velvet lining, this whiskey flask makes an excellent gift for someone who loves classic elegance with a fresh touch!
Green Guinness Ireland Harp T-Shirt
For a man who loves truly masculine, rugged, and at the same time enjoyable clothing inspired by the Emerald Isle, this Official Guinness T-shirt is the perfect fit! This T-Shirt features a Guinness tortoise balancing a pint with the words “Relax with a…” underneath. Guinness is arguably the most recognizable brand in Ireland loved and appreciated by all men.
My Goodness My Guinness Wall Art
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Hang up a piece of Irish and advertising history with this "My Goodness My Guinness" metal sign. This vintage-style piece is 12 inches long and 8 inches wide and features the Guinness brand's iconic harried zookeeper. In 1935, the brewing company hired the advertising firm of S.H. Benson to revamp its image and decided to use adorable animals in a playful marketing campaign. The beleaguered zookeeper is a recurring character just trying to keep his delicious Guinness away from thirsty sea otters, ostriches, and lions. The sign comes with four hole-punched corners for easy hanging. Since the sign is made of metal, it can go both indoors and outdoors!
Guinness Tankard with Pewter Logo
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This handsome glass tankard from Guinness is an excellent addition to any home bar. It's well-made, with a thick glass handle, gleaming pewter logo, and a gorgeous cut glass sunburst medallion bottom that reflects light beautifully. This traditional tankard is premium barware, perfect for any beer lover or Guinness fan!
A father has a unique role in a child's life, serving as a male role model, a friend to play catch with and a parent who nurtures and loves. Father's Day is important for celebrating and cherishing this special bond. Help your child strengthen this bond with Dad through crafting homemade gifts, whipping up his favorite dish and planning fun activities to make the day extra special!
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Didn't find what you were looking for? Shop ShamrockGift.com for more Father's Irish Gifts!