Most everyone knows about Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Aside from their birthdays, these are Mom’s and Dad’s biggest days every year. Many of us also have Grandparents’ Day on our radar and even Children’s Day. But were you aware of National Parents’ Day? It’s a special day set aside annually to honor all parents and recognize the important role they play in society. And especially the role they play in the lives of their children. Today’s post is all about the history of this national holiday.
Of course, we can let our parents know how special they are at any time, but there is something nice about having a calendar-marked occasion to draw attention to the significance. In the United States, National Parents’ Day is always on the fourth Sunday in the month of July. In 2024, the date falls on July 28. But how did we end up with this little-known holiday? Let’s take a look as we get into The History of National Parents’ Day.
Table of Contents
How Did Parents’ Day Become Established?
The Reverend Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Unification Church, introduced the idea behind having an official Parents’ Day. The famous Korean religious leader began advocating for an official date in the early ’60s, calling for a True Parents’ Day to emphasize the importance of strong family values. The roots of this initiative are still present in Korea today, which we will get to a little later. In the U.S., the holiday didn’t take hold until later.
Introduced in a bill by Republican Senator Trent Lott and backed by legislative support, National Parents’ Day was signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1994. The resolution recognizes the “…uplifting and supporting the role of parents in the rearing of children,” the promotion of responsible parenting and the crucial need for parental involvement in their children’s moral and educational development.
Celebrations of Parents Around the World
Love, support and recognition for parents is universal! Since its beginnings in Asian culture (as was the case with the lobbing of Reverend Sun Myung Moon), a celebration day for parents has been adopted by many places all over the planet, including multiple dates and events. Here are just a few.
In 2012, the United Nations declared June 1 would be the Global Day of Parents to show appreciation for all the dedicated mothers and fathers, and to support the same family-oriented values suggested on National Parents’ Day.
In Korea, Parents’ Day is observed every year on May 8. While the name of the holiday has evolved from its original name of True Parents’ Day, the cultural practices and rituals have remained relatively the same. They include the giving of red carnations (from children to their parents) as a demonstration of love, writing cards and letters of admiration, the giving of meaningful gifts and community celebrations (both public and private).
While not as prominent as the celebration in Korea, the Philippines has assigned the fourth Sunday of July each year as a time to praise the parents of Filipino families and their invaluable investment of love and sacrifice. It is also called Parents’ Day and is often marked by the giving of cards and gifts, family gatherings and community activities.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Parents’ Day (known as Siku ya Wazazi in Swahili) is celebrated annually on August 1 and dedicated to honoring the vital roles of parents in Congolese society.
As an alternative to Valentine’s Day, the people of India observe Parents’ Worship Day each year since 2007. An attempt to counter the romantic love western culture has associated with February 14, Parents’ Worship Day serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted cultural significance of respecting and valuing parents in Indian society, and it’s meant to help strengthen the bond of the family unit.
Celebrating National Parents’ Day: Traditions, Activities and Gifts
At its heart, National Parents’ Day is all about making parents feel appreciated, valued and love. Now that you have a better understanding on the holiday, you might be asking yourself what you can do to make July 28, 2024 meaningful. We would love to help! Check out these 7 easy ways to make Mom, Dad, your favorite grandparent or someone who has been like a parent to you feel so very important and loved.
1. Write them a heartfelt letter or card to express your gratitude. To make it even more personal, include fond memories, family anecdotes, or specific reasons why you appreciate them so much.
2. Prepare your parents a scrumptious meal or take them out to their favorite restaurant. Full bellies are happy bellies and the unique communal practice of sharing a meal is an ideal way to convey how much you care.
3. Spend the day together and enjoy some quality time. This could be anything from a relaxing walk in the park, having a picnic, going to a museum or amusement park as a family, or simply visiting together at home.
4. Share a hobby together. Perhaps your parents enjoy gardening, grilling out, bird watching or tinkering around with classic cars. Sharing the things that already bring your mother and father joy can help you connect with them in a very personal way.
5. Help around the house. Assisting parents with chores or projects that they’ve been meaning to accomplish can mean the world to them. Your help will certainly be appreciated, and it will lighten their load at the same time.
6. Plan a surprise party or outing. If you were surprised to learn about the observance of National Parents’ Day, imagine how surprised your parents will be if you organize a family celebration to honor them.
7. Ask your parents about their life or stories of their family when they were growing up. You’ll be surprised what you find out. Often, parents have lived very full lives and have much to share about their past. A few simple questions show your interest and lets them relate things that will be preserved in your memory of family.
And one more thing… don’t forget about the gifts!
National Parents’ Day Gift Ideas
One of the best ways to celebrate Mom, Dad and grandparents on National Parents’ Day is with a hand-selected present that reminds them they’re awesome. That’s where The Bradford Exchange comes in. It’s a great place to shop when you’re looking for unique and meaningful expressions of your love. That means you can shop year-round for Mother’s Day gifts, Father’s Day gifts, grandma gifts and gifts for granddads that would be ideal gestures for National Parents’ Day. And the best part? You won’t find these gifts in any stores, so you know you’re getting them something truly distinctive.
We trust today’s post was interesting, enjoyable and helpful, especially as July 28 is coming up soon. And if you get the privilege of seeing your parents for the occasion this year, we certainly hope your time with them is filled with lots of meaning, nostalgia and joy.
Thanks so much for reading and we hope you have a great National Parents’ Day!
The History Of National Parents’ Day: How Did This Special Day Come About? by The Bradford Exchange
About The Bradford Exchange
The Gift Advisors @The Bradford Exchange are thrilled to help you discover a wealth of artistic treasures, all of which began with passion. Whether you are looking for that perfect personalized gift or a unique collection for yourself, we are driven to make your shopping experience as joyful as possible and hope you are surprised and delighted with what you find. Thank you for your continued support.
