Date varies by country — select yours:
Father's Day is a celebration honouring fathers and fatherhood, observed on the third Sunday of June in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and many other countries. It was first celebrated in the United States in 1910, inspired by Mother's Day, and became a permanent US national holiday in 1972 when President Richard Nixon signed it into law. Today it is one of the most widely observed family celebrations globally, with US consumers spending over $22 billion annually.
The most popular Father's Day gifts are greeting cards, clothing, electronics, tools, sporting goods, restaurant meals and experiences. Father's Day is the peak day for mobile phone gifting in the US and the biggest day for men's grooming purchases. In the US, approximately 75 million fathers are celebrated on Father's Day, with most adult children giving cards, calling or visiting in person.
Like Mother's Day, Father's Day is celebrated on different dates in different countries: Portugal and Spain observe it on March 19 (the feast of Saint Joseph), while Russia celebrates Defender of the Fatherland Day on February 23. The third-Sunday-of-June version, however, is the most globally widespread and includes major markets such as the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, India and most of Latin America.
When is Father's Day 2026?
Father's Day 2026 in the US, UK, Canada and Australia falls on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
When is Father's Day 2027?
Father's Day 2027 falls on Sunday, June 20, 2027.
Is Father's Day a public holiday?
Father's Day is not a public holiday in the US, UK, Canada or Australia. Schools and businesses remain open.
What are the best Father's Day gifts?
Popular gifts include: sports or hobby equipment, clothing and shoes, electronics (headphones, tablets, smartwatches), tools, grilling accessories, restaurant experiences, whisky/beer/wine, personalised gifts, subscription boxes and streaming subscriptions.
How is Father's Day different from Mother's Day?
In the US, Father's Day spending averages about $196 per celebrant vs $274 for Mother's Day, though the number of people celebrating is similar. Father's Day tends to skew more toward experiential gifts (golf trips, sports tickets) while Mother's Day skews more toward flowers and fine dining.
Why is Father's Day in June?
June was chosen partly to accommodate Washington State's proposal in 1910, and partly because it fell mid-year, balancing Mother's Day in May. The third Sunday of June became standard in the US after various attempts to pin it to other dates.
What countries celebrate Father's Day on the same date?
The third Sunday of June is observed in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, India, South Africa, Singapore and most of Latin America. Spain and Portugal celebrate Father's Day on March 19 (Saint Joseph's Day). Germany celebrates on Ascension Day.
How can I celebrate Father's Day?
Common ways to celebrate: a family meal (brunch, barbecue or restaurant dinner), a day out doing dad's favourite activity, a sports event, a round of golf, a home-cooked breakfast, a handmade card from children, or a personalised gift. Quality time and acknowledgement matter more than spend.