As Father’s Day 2025 approaches on June 15th, millions worldwide prepare to honor the fathers and father figures who shape their lives. While the sentiment of gratitude and love is universal, the ways in which this special day is celebrated vary widely, reflecting unique cultural traditions, histories, and modern trends. From Ireland’s eco-conscious tree-planting gifts to fathers day in India’s booming cake delivery culture, International Fathers Day offers a fascinating glimpse into how different societies express appreciation for dads. Let’s embark on a global journey to explore some of the most interesting and heartfelt celebrations for Father’s Day 2025.
The Roots of Father’s Day: A Universal Tribute
International Fathers Day originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It was first celebrated in 1908 and officially established in 1916, thanks to Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to honor her Civil War veteran father who raised six children alone. Since then, the holiday has spread to over 110 countries, mostly observed on the third Sunday of June, including this year’s date, June 15, 2025. Though the date and customs differ, the core of Father’s Day 2025 remains the same worldwide: celebrating the love, care, and support fathers provide, and strengthening family bonds through gifts, quality time, and shared experiences.
Ireland’s Green Gesture: Tree-Planting for Dad
In Ireland, International Fathers Day carries a special environmental twist. Beyond traditional gifts like ties and gadgets, many Irish families now embrace the trend of gifting trees or shrubs. This eco-friendly tradition symbolizes growth, strength, and longevity—qualities often associated with fatherhood. Planting a tree in honor of dad not only creates a lasting tribute but also supports Ireland’s commitment to sustainability and local businesses.
This green gesture has gained popularity as people seek meaningful, lasting gifts that connect fathers to nature and future generations. Alongside tree planting, Irish dads enjoy experience-based gifts such as whiskey tastings, fishing trips, or personalized keepsakes, blending tradition with contemporary tastes.
India’s Sweet Surprise: The Cake Delivery Phenomenon
Fathers day in India is a relatively recent addition, popularized through Western influence and celebrated mainly in metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Pune. While it is not a public holiday, the day has gained immense traction, especially among younger generations who want to express love and gratitude to their fathers.
One of the most heartwarming and trending ways to celebrate fathers day in India is through cake delivery. Online bakeries offer same-day and even midnight delivery services, allowing children to surprise their dads with delicious cakes even if they are miles apart. This sweet tradition highlights the importance of food as a symbol of affection and celebration.
Beyond cakes, Indian families often exchange personalized gifts, cards, and spend quality time together. The day is also an opportunity to honor father figures beyond biological dads, recognizing mentors and guardians who play pivotal roles in children’s lives.
Unique Celebrations Across Other Nations
Thailand: Honoring the King and Fathers
Thailand celebrates International Fathers Day on December 5th, coinciding with the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), who is revered as the “Father of the Nation”. The day is a national public holiday marked by ceremonies, candlelight vigils, and wearing yellow—the king’s symbolic color. Traditionally, people present canna flowers, considered masculine, to their fathers. The celebration blends respect for the monarchy with familial love, making it deeply meaningful.
Nepal: Kushe Aunsi and Ancestral Reverence
In Nepal, Father’s Day is celebrated on Kushe Aunsi, a lunar calendar-based festival occurring in late August or early September. Children worship their fathers, apply tika (a ceremonial mark) on their foreheads, and offer sweets and gifts. The day also honors deceased fathers through temple visits and prayers, reflecting a profound spiritual connection to paternal ancestors.
Turkey and Malaysia: Growing Western Influence
Both Turkey and Malaysia observe Father’s Day on the third Sunday of June, following Western traditions. While not public holidays, these celebrations increasingly involve gift-giving, family gatherings, and public acknowledgments of fatherhood, especially in urban areas.
United Arab Emirates: A New Celebration
The UAE celebrates Father’s Day on June 21st, aligning with the summer solstice. Though a relatively new observance, it is gaining popularity, particularly among expatriate communities, through gifts, social media campaigns, and family events.
Common Threads and Gift Trends Worldwide
Despite cultural differences, several themes and gift ideas resonate globally on International Father’s Day 2025 celebrations:
- Experience Over Material: Many countries emphasize experiences—fishing trips in Ireland, cooking classes in India, or family outings in the UAE—over traditional material gifts, reflecting a shift toward meaningful memories.
- Personalized and Eco-Friendly Gifts: Customized items like engraved watches, photo albums, and eco-conscious gifts such as tree planting are trending worldwide, appealing to modern dads’ values.
- Food as a Gift: From father’s day in India’s cake deliveries to family barbecues in the US and Ireland, food remains a universal symbol of celebration and togetherness.
- Tech and Wellness: Smartwatches, fitness trackers, and health-related gadgets are popular gifts globally, catering to dads’ interests in technology and well-being.
Conclusion: A Global Celebration of Fatherhood
International Father’s Day 2025 is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a vibrant global tapestry of traditions, emotions, and evolving customs. Whether planting a tree in Ireland, sending a surprise cake in India, or honoring a national hero in Thailand, the day reminds us of the universal love and respect we hold for fathers everywhere.
As we celebrate this International Fathers Day 2025, embracing diverse customs enriches our appreciation of fatherhood’s many dimensions. It invites us to honor the men who guide, protect, and inspire us in ways both big and small, across cultures and continents.
So this June 15th, why not take a leaf from another country’s book? Plant a tree, bake a cake, or simply spend quality time with your dad. After all, the heart of Father’s Day 2025 lies in the simple, sincere act of saying, “Thank you, Dad.”
