Father's Day – A Day of Gratitude and Love

It's not right that Father's Day only comes once a year. Dads deserve hugs, thanks, kind words, and love all year long! Luckily, there's one day just for them. On the second Sunday of November, we get to celebrate fathers, stepfathers, and papas, each in our own way.

In this blog, we will explore the history of Father's Day, traditions from different countries, and how Finns celebrate this important day. We will also give you tips on how to choose the best gift for your dad.

History of Father's Day – Where did it all begin?

The first Father's Day celebration took place in the United States, in West Virginia, in 1908. At the time, the holiday was a moment of remembrance in memory of the 362 men who died in a devastating coal mine explosion in 1907.

Although this was an important and touching moment, the most famous founder of Father's Day is Sonora Smart Dodd. Sonora wanted to celebrate a father who had raised six children alone after the death of his wife. It was her initiative that led to the first Father's Day being held in 1910 in Washington state. Thanks to Sonora's initiative, the celebration began to spread to other states, and in 1972, Father's Day became an official holiday in the United States.

Father's Day in Finland – A long tradition in November

In Finland, Father's Day began to be celebrated in the early 1970s, and the custom became more common over the following decades. In 1987, the day was officially marked in the University Almanac, and it finally gained the status of an official flag-raising day only in 2019. Although the date in November is dark and cold, Father's Day brings warmth and light to the middle of autumn, as families gather together to celebrate fathers and dads.

A typical Finnish Father's Day celebration often starts in the morning for families with children. The children have made their own cards and poems, which are given to their father with morning coffee or breakfast. Many people prepare their father's favorite treats, and the family may spend the day together going out or relaxing. A Father's Day gift is an important part of the celebration, and it symbolizes the giver's appreciation and gratitude. In Finland, gifts are often practical, such as warm clothes and high-quality accessories that will last and remind them of the important day for years to come.

Commemoration customs and traditions around the world

Father's Day celebrations vary across cultures, but one thing unites them all: appreciating and showing love to fathers. For example, in Italy and Spain, Father's Day falls on March 19th, St. Joseph's Day. It is more of a religious celebration where families honor fathers and father figures.

In the United States, Father's Day falls in June and is a largely commercial holiday, with stores filled with a variety of gifts for dads, including tech gadgets, sports equipment, and other products related to dads' interests. In the UK and Canada, fathers receive gifts and enjoy family brunches or dinners.

In Asia, such as Japan and South Korea, Father's Day is celebrated in June and is a common family celebration that emphasizes gratitude and respect. Japanese children may prepare small gifts or crafts, and family members spend time together over a special meal. In Thailand, Father's Day coincides with the birthday of the country's king, making the day a national holiday.

The best Father's Day gift - How to choose the right gift for dad?

When planning a Father's Day gift, think about what makes him happy. Is he an active sportsman, a home cook, or perhaps a music lover? Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect gift for dad:

Practical gifts:

In Finland, practicality is valued. High-quality accessories, such as wool scarves and hats, leather wallets or stylish belts, are classic gifts that never go out of style. They are also long-lasting and practical – qualities that many Finns value.

Experiential gifts:

Experience gifts, such as a dinner at a restaurant, a movie night, or a hobby trip, offer shared memories and time together. This kind of gift is especially meaningful because it gives you the opportunity to spend precious time with your dad.

Homemade gifts:

A handmade card or gift is always precious, as it shows that you have put in the effort and time to make it. The personality of handmade gifts makes them especially special.

Leather products:

High-quality leather products, such as belts, wallets and bags, are popular Father's Day gifts. They last over time and bring a touch of everyday luxury to everyday use.

A precious day

Remembering Father's Day has become a tradition for many. It's a time when people want to show their father how much he means to them with a gift.

Homemade gifts are always the most precious to the recipient, they are the result of effort and thought. The love in them is palpable.

Utua thinks about fathers

A purchased gift also reflects the giver's appreciation and values.

Utua's high-quality materials and responsibly produced products are pleasing to both the recipient and the giver. A long-lasting leather product will withstand use and remind you of an important day for years to come.

It is a pleasure to give quality, it is a pleasure to receive quality. Appreciation is noticed and enjoyed.

A very happy Father's Day to all fathers, father figures and papas!

Tip-fives!

If you're still running out of ideas, check out our online store to see if there are any nice gift ideas there:

• Beanies and scarves
• Wallets
• Belts
• Bags