Father’s Day is one of the most special occasions in the first year of being a dad. Conveniently held in June so that dad can lounge in the sun and/or enjoy a barbecue in the sunshine, with a proximity to Mother’s Day that allows you to remind mum how you lavished her with presents just recently, it’s a perfect day.
History
The idea for Father’s Day dates back more than a century in the US, started by Sonora Dodd to recognise fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. Initially a day of celebration aimed to recognise dads in the same way that Mother’s Day did for mums, the idea eventually faded away until being brought back by US presidents Wilson and Coolidge, before notably becoming a permanent national holiday during the tenure of Nixon in 1972.
Gift ideas
Your little one won’t be in any shape to choose a present for a year or two, but by the age of three they might have some semblance of how special their parents are. You’ll probably be receiving hugs and kisses on a daily basis, which are gifts enough for the new parent.
Suggestions for presents could include: a nice frame for any pictures of the day (see below); prints; practical gifts such as DIY or driving-based items; or a favourite beer or five. One last suggestion – allowing dad time with the television. This year Father’s Day falls on June 19, in the middle of the Euro 2016 tournament, so one might want to sit down and enjoy Switzerland vs the hosts France that evening.
Going out
Father’s Day is now big business; indeed, in other countries across the world it ranks with the biggest events of the year. For example, in Germany it’s also known as Mannertag or Herrentag – Men’s Day/Gentlemen’s Day – and is traditionally celebrated with hiking tours or trips to the park with wagons full of alcoholic beverages; traditions dating back to Christian Ascension Day processions.
Closer to home, Father’s Day events are now being held across the country with success. As an example, Bletchley Park near Milton Keynes is hosting a special barbecue with a new beer to the sound of jazz music, while the Oxford Polish Association is hosting a picnic day complete with Polish sausage barbecue and an adult-friendly bouncy castle. Google your own area – there will almost certainly be something going on.
Don’t forget granddad
If you’re a first time parent, then granddad might also be a first time grandparent as well, so make sure a little present is included for him. The job should really be mum’s and no reminder should be necessary.
Photographs
We’re sure you wouldn’t ever forget to mark the day itself with a few snaps of dad and little one in all their glory, alongside any presents of note. These could then be used to create prints and personalised gifts from PhotoBox further down the line, and perhaps even provide the base for images for gifts for Father’s Day next year.
As a final note, make sure you get some video of you during your first ever Father’s Day, and not just your child – you’ll later enjoy seeing how you’ve changed down the years as much as them.