How to Celebrate Father’s Day in Canada (2025)
Father’s Day in Canada lands on Sunday, June 15, 2025—just a few days before the summer solstice. While it’s not a public holiday, it’s a heartfelt one. This is a day to slow down and show love to dads, stepdads, grandfathers, and all the father figures who’ve quietly held things together.
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How Canadians Celebrate Father’s Day
Canadians mark Father’s Day in ways that are both big and small. Some go the extra mile with barbecues, fun runs, or museum visits, while others keep it simple with a phone call or home-cooked meal. While the ads push neckties, golf gear, or gadgets, many are leaning into the idea that time together is the real gift.
Here are a few popular Father’s Day traditions in Canada:
- Sharing breakfast, brunch, or dinner at home or restaurants
- Gifting hobby gear, books, or handmade cards
- Planning outings to the park, zoo, or local attractions
- Attending charity runs or community events
- Hosting joint celebrations with extended family
Those who live far away often send thoughtful cards, video call, or schedule deliveries to bridge the distance.
Is Father’s Day a Public Holiday in Canada?
No. Father’s Day is not a statutory holiday. But since it falls on a Sunday, many people already have the day off. Shops, restaurants, and parks may be busier than usual, so booking ahead is smart if you’re planning a meal or day out.
Where Did Father’s Day Come From?
The modern version of Father’s Day traces back to Spokane, Washington, in 1910, when Sonora Smart Dodd proposed a day to celebrate her single dad who raised six kids on his own. Though inspired by Mother’s Day, Father’s Day took decades to gain traction. It wasn’t until 1972 that it became a recognized national holiday in the U.S., and its observance soon spread to Canada and beyond.
Some even link Father’s Day to ancient sun-worship traditions, since the summer solstice and Father’s Day often land close together.
Things To Do With Dad in 2025
Looking for something special to do this year? Try these father-focused activities to make the day more meaningful:
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- Go camping or fishing for the weekend
- Fire up the grill and cook a steak or ribs dinner
- Visit a local museum or science centre (some offer free admission for dads)
- Plan a DIY car wash or home project together
- Just take a walk and talk—it really is that simple
Not everything has to be expensive. Sometimes, the best gift is your time.
More…
- https://www.statutoryholidays.com/fathers-day.php
- https://www.almanac.com/content/when-fathers-day
- https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/canada/father-day
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