Father’s Day In Kent
Father’s Day, celebrated globally on the third Sunday of June, is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s an opportunity to honour the unique influence and impact fathers and father figures have in our lives. From shaping our childhoods to offering unwavering support, their role is truly invaluable. This year, as we prepare to celebrate on Sunday, June 15th, 2025.
Find out the history of this day, worldwide traditions and advice about this significant relationship.
Looking for ideas and inspiration all year round? Explore our dedicated Days Out With Dad in Kent feature, packed with fantastic things to do across the county. You can also plan ahead by booking tickets for Kent’s many exciting festivals, carnivals, fairs, and county shows this year – check out our guides. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, peaceful natural escapes, or simply quality time together, the Garden of England offers endless possibilities to show your appreciation and make every day a celebration of Dad.
Why We Celebrate Father's Day
Father’s Day is a celebration of fathers and paternal bonds and celebrates fatherhood and the influence of fathers in society. Father’s Day in Catholic Europe is known to date back to at least 1508, and usually marked on the 19th of March, the feast day of Saint Joseph, who is referred to as the fatherly Nutritor Domini (Nourisher of the Lord) in Catholicism and ‘the putative father of Jesus” in southern European tradition.
It is assumed that Father’s Day started in the US, and it is linked to Sonora Louise Smart in Washington, who was brought up by her father after her mother died. In 1909, Sonora heard a speech in church about Mother’s Day and thought dads should also be celebrated. Several local clergymen accepted the idea, and it’s believed that 19 June 1910 was the first unofficial Father’s Day. In 1966, US President Lyndon B. Johnson thought it should be on the third Sunday in June, and six years later, President Richard Nixon signed it into law.
In the UK, the day does not have a long tradition; Steve Roud, in The English Year (2006), states that it entered British popular culture “sometime after the Second World War,” according to Wikipedia’s Father’s Day entry.
Worldwide Traditions
Celebrations vary around the world, according to BBC Newsround:
Father’s Race: In Mexico, children can run in the 13-mile race called Carrera Día del Padre (Father’s Day Race)
Thai Yellow: It is traditional to wear yellow on Father’s Day
French Rose Tradition: It is traditional in France to give fathers red roses, though if they are no longer alive, white roses should be laid on their grave.
UK: Presents including socks and ties are traditional gifts, as is beer, along with spending time with fathers and father figures.
The Honours Man
Spending time with fathers and father figures is important and in Kent there is no end to the number of great things to do and see. Explore our Things to do in Kent category for attractions and activities, whether it’s is an escape room adventure, a theme park, or a themed tour – there’s something for all ages. If you are celebrating with younger members of the family, you can filter with our Kids See Kent tags to ensure if is family-focused.
Dad's Do Matter
Fathers and father figures make a vital contribution to their children’s development, and like mothers, children need them to to love them, to be interested in them and to respond to their needs, making them feel valued and understood. From conception to adulthood, being a father takes time and work, especially as the mother often gets a lot of the attention in the early days. However, the role a father plays is very key to their children, and their upbringing can significantly impact the roles they undertake later in life.
According to the Association for Child Psychotherapists for boys, some research suggests that their father’s influence may have a lot to do with how sociable boys are. In their article, Understanding the Vital Role That Fathers, and Father Figures, Play in Children’s Emotional Development the role of stepfathers is highlighted as important too for a child’s upbringing. Adopted and foster father’s too play a key role.
There is no formula for being a good father, but researchers have noticed what a difference it makes to children when a father is committed to them and encourages them in what they do.
Help For Dads
Recently, it has been acknowledged that fathers suffer, and it is important, according to the NHS to get help as soon as possible. With the right support, most people make a full recovery.
Top Tips from the NHS
Self Help: Talking to family and friends
Fitness & Food: Do things you enjoy, make sure you keep healthy, exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet.
Therapy Talks: Your doctor may recommend a self-help course or may refer you for a course of therapy
Meds & Men: You may be offered antidepressants if your depression is more severe or other treatments have not helped.
Picture Credit: Top to Bottom: © Kelly Sikkema, Wil Stewart and Carly Rae Hobbins at unsplash.com
We do our best to endeavour to be as accurate and comprehensive as possible from the information we have at the time of publication. We are not liable for any changes that a company or event makes at the last minute, whether time changes or price amendments.
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