Father’s Day 2024: When is Father's Day in the UK and why do we celebrate it?

In the UK, Father’s Day always takes place on the third Sunday of June.

Father's Day in the UK takes place each June.

Father’s Day will soon arrive for those living in the UK, following Mother’s Day in March.

Celebrated on the third Sunday of June every year, the occasion hasn’t been observed for quite as long as its maternal equivalent - but that doesn’t make it any less of an excuse to treat dedicated parents.

Whether looking to spoil a father, step-father, granddad or even just a guardian, here’s what you need to know about Father’s Day in the UK.

When is Father’s Day UK?

In 2024, Father’s Day falls on Sunday, June 16.

As well as being celebrated in the UK on this day, Father’s Day is also observed in Canada and the United States on the third Sunday in June.

However, in countries around Europe - such as Spain and Italy - Father’s Day is known as Día del Padre and Festa del Papà respectively, and falls on March 19; the same day as the Feast of St Joseph, who is considered the “legal” father of Jesus Christ.

Father's Day presents can include socks, ties and more.

Why do we celebrate Father’s Day?

Unlike Mother’s Day, which can be traced back to the Middle Ages, Father’s Day is a relatively recent addition to the British holiday calendar.

It became commonly celebrated in the UK at some point following World War Two, however, the origins of Father’s Day are rooted more in American history.

The event is said to have first been observed in 1908, when a woman named Grace Clayton organised an event to remember her father who died in a mining accident. Father’s Day eventually gained significance in its own right, with US President Richard Nixon making it into a national holiday in 1972.

Communities worldwide celebrate Father’s Day as a means of recognising and honouring the contribution of fathers. It acknowledges the importance of fatherhood and the dedication of men towards their family and wider community.