Father's Day is a time to celebrate and appreciate the amazing dads in our lives. Different cultures have their own unique (and sometimes quirky) traditions that
make this day even more special. Let's embark on a delightful journey around the globe to discover ten fascinating Father's Day customs.
1. Germany: Beer-filled Hikes and Whimsical Gifts: In Germany, on Father's Day, groups of guys go on fun hikes through the countryside. They
bring wagons filled with beer and play pranks along the way. Kids surprise their dads with beer mugs and wacky gifts like giant beer glasses and silly ties.
2. South Korea: Foot Massages and Red Carnations: In South Korea, children show love and gratitude to their dads by giving
them foot massages. They pamper their fathers with warm herbal foot baths and gentle massages. Red carnations are also a popular gift, symbolizing deep admiration and respect.
3.
Nepal: Respecting and Blessing: In Nepal, children express their love and gratitude for their dads by touching their feet. This act of respect and reverence symbolizes acknowledging the sacrifices fathers make for their families.
4. Thailand: Celebrating Fathers and the King:
In Thailand, Father's Day falls on the birthday of the beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej. People wear yellow, a color associated with the monarchy, to show respect for their fathers and the king. Children gift canna flowers, considered auspicious, as a symbol of love. The day is filled with cultural events and ceremonies, promoting unity and gratitude.
5. Brazil: Gatherings and Barbecues: In Brazil, families come together on the second Sunday of August to celebrate Father's Day. It's a time for joyous gatherings and delicious barbecues known as churrascos. It often includes an assortment of meats served on skewers, which are brought to the table and carved directly onto each person's plate.
6. Spain: Song and Dance: In Spain, Father's Day is celebrated on March 19th, coinciding with St. Joseph's Day. Families gather to sing and dance in honor of fathers. Children often surprise their dads with special performances, showcasing their talents and love.
7. Japan: Unique Origami Gifts: Father's Day, known as Chichi no Hi, is celebrated in Japan on the third Sunday of June. Children make origami creations as a heartfelt gift for their dads. They craft beautiful paper wallets or neckties, symbolizing gratitude and appreciation. It's a day of creativity and showing love through handmade gestures.
8. Mexico: Serenades and Festivities: In Mexico, Father's Day, or Día del Padre, is a day of celebration. Families gather to serenade fathers with music and songs. Festivities include parties, delicious food, and heartfelt tributes to dads.
9. India: Rituals and Feasts: In India, Father's Day is celebrated with various regional customs. Children perform special rituals, such as tying protective threads around their fathers' wrists. Families come together for feasts and gift their dads with traditional clothing or accessories.
10. United States: Outdoor Adventures and Family Time: In the United States, families often spend Father's Day enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or picnicking.
In my family, my daughter always presents Joe will a wacky button-down shirt for Father's Day. This
is a funny tradition that never fails to disappoint. Joe has a collection of weird shirts: one with bananas printed on it, another with hot
dog carts, another with lobsters, etc. It's especially funny because Joe tends to be a more serious person, so the wacky shirts always get a laugh...and when he wears them, he gets a lot of compliments. Do you have present or past traditions (or funny stories) in your
family related to Father's Day? If so, reply to this email. I'd love to hear them and share them with our readers.
