Where did the first Father's Day originate?

The first Father's Day in Germany was born out of a misunderstanding and became a merry men's party. In the meantime, however, fathers are being pampered there, too.

From heavenly to boozy Father's Day in Germany

In Germany, Ascension Day was also called Father's Day in the Middle Ages. By «Father», however, they meant the heavenly Father, since on this church holiday Jesus ascends to his Father.

At that time, processions of supplication were common. People marched through meadows and fields and prayed for a good harvest. Afterwards, men met at the inn for an extended drink. This became increasingly popular. And so, the day became a more secular father's or men's day.

Father's Day: officially recognized in Germany in 1936

At the beginning of the 20th century decorated carriages and tractors were loaded with alcoholic beverages to transport fathers and non-fathers to the countryside and celebrate men’s day. In 1936, however, Germany officially declared the date of Ascension Day as Father's Day.

Naturally, the boozy outings remained popular. But meanwhile, Father's Day is also a day of honor for fathers in Germany, celebrated as a family.