Father’s Day Around the World: Traditions and Celebrations

Father’s Day is something most of us mark each year in some way. It’s usually with a card, a gift and perhaps a meal together. But have you ever wondered how Father’s Day around the world is celebrated? While the idea of recognising Dad and possibly any other father figures is both universal and popular, the different traditions around the world are interesting to learn and compare.

Father’s Day in the UK falls on the third Sunday of June; therefore, it is not a fixed date, meaning we all tend to be asking closer to the time, “when is Father’s Day?”. In 2026, it will take place on Sunday, 21st June. However, that’s not the case everywhere. Different countries celebrate at different times of the year and sometimes under slightly different names, too.

We thought it might be nice to share Father’s Day traditions around the world, including when International Father’s Day is celebrated in different countries and how families mark the occasion. From the familiar traditions we see here in the UK to unique celebrations linked to religion or cultural history, it’s interesting to see how one simple idea is recognised across the world.

When is International Father’s Day?

In many countries, just like the UK, International Father’s Day takes place on the third Sunday in June. This includes the United States, Canada and India.

As we’ve already mentioned, Father’s Day in the UK will fall on Sunday, 21st June this year, 2026. However, Father’s Day dates around the world can vary hugely and in some places the celebration is linked to very interesting religious or national traditions.

For example:

• Australia and New Zealand celebrate Father’s Day on the first Sunday in September (6th September in 2026).
• Thailand marks Father’s Day on 5th December, which is also the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej's birthday.
• Spain, Portugal and Italy celebrate Father’s Day on 19th March, known as St. Joseph’s Day, in honour of the earthly father of Jesus.

So while the spirit of the celebration is shared internationally, the calendar certainly keeps things interesting. We’ve only picked out a few, but as you can imagine, there are many more.

Father’s Day Traditions

While dates may vary, many Father’s Day traditions share common themes. It wouldn’t surprise you to know that families around the world choose to celebrate in ways which are meaningful and personal to them and their relationships.

Gifts, thoughtful gestures, and spending time together are all universally popular approaches to Father’s Day. Some families prepare a special meal, others plan activities together, and many people choose meaningful gifts. The latter of which allows us all to cater to Dad’s likes, interests, and personality. It’s why hampers and curated gifts have become popular.

Looking at Father’s Day around the world, whilst a lot of the sentiment is universal, we’re digging deeper into the national and cultural influences.

UK Father’s Day Traditions

In the UK, Father’s Day is usually a relaxed family occasion. Common traditions include:

• Breakfast in bed
• Family meals, such as a Sunday roast or pub lunch
• Cards with heartfelt (or occasionally terrible) dad jokes
• Small gifts to show appreciation

It’s often less about grand gestures and more about choosing something that reflects who Dad is and our relationship.

USA, Canada and India Father’s Day Traditions

In the United States, Canada, and India, where Father’s Day falls on the same day in June, the celebrations are quite similar to those in the UK. Families often gather for meals or take Dad out somewhere. Children give cards or handmade gifts that might have been made in school. Most people choose thoughtful presents to give Dad something they know he likes, around interests like sports, cars or food. It’s very much a day centred around appreciation and family time.

Father’s Day Traditions in Thailand

Thailand celebrates Father’s Day in a very different way. The date, 5th December, honours the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who was widely regarded as a father figure to the nation.

Traditional customs include:

• Wearing yellow, the king’s symbolic colour
• Giving yellow Canna flowers
• Visiting temples and performing acts of merit
• Honouring fathers and grandfathers in family gatherings

It’s both a national and family celebration rolled into one. Whilst this is slightly more formal, the objective of recognising Dad is shared.

Spain, Italy and Portugal Father’s Day Traditions

In Spain, Italy and Portugal, Father’s Day is celebrated on 19th March, also known as St. Joseph’s Day. This tradition has strong Catholic roots, honouring Saint Joseph, the father of Jesus. Families typically gather for meals together, and children give gifts or cards to their fathers. The day has a slightly more religious background than the UK celebration, but it still centres on appreciation, getting together, and family relationships.

Celebrate Father’s Day to the Fullest with Hay Hampers

Looking at Father’s Day around the world, it’s wonderful to see the variety of traditions, yet with strong shared meanings and objectives. It’s about celebrating the role fathers and father figures play in our lives and the unique relationship we have with dad.

In the UK today, Father’s Day traditions often include thoughtful gifts alongside time spent together. A carefully chosen hamper can be a great way to do both by offering something delicious to enjoy, which will very often last far beyond the day itself.

At Hay Hampers, our Father’s Day collection brings together gourmet food, artisan drinks and carefully curated treats designed to suit every kind of dad. They might be a snack fiend, a wine enthusiast or a beer lover. Whatever their tastes, we’ve got it covered. You can explore our full Father’s Day collection to find something that suits him perfectly.

And if you’re looking for more inspiration, you might also enjoy reading our guide on what to put in a Father’s Day hamper or discovering some thoughtful ways to celebrate Father’s Day.