Father's Day in Argentina has gradually become a celebration that combines local roots with a strong international influence. Its origin dates back to 1958, when it was proposed to commemorate the birth of Mercedes Tomasa de San Martín y Escalada, the only daughter of General José de San Martín.
That first celebration took place on August 24, a date chosen to pay tribute to the Argentine national hero, considered the "Father of the Nation". The initiative aimed to highlight his paternal and human role, beyond his military and political legacy.
The influence of the United States
During the 1960s, Argentina adopted the third Sunday of June as the official date for Father's Day, aligning with the American tradition. The decision was based on a moving story: in 1909, Sonora Smart Dodd proposed celebrating fathers in honor of her own father, William Smart, a war veteran who raised six children alone after being widowed.
Dodd's proposal quickly spread throughout North America and later to various countries around the world, including Argentina.
When Father's Day is celebrated this year
Thus, thanks to Dodd's initiative, the third Sunday of June became the most popular date, so in 2025 it will be Sunday, June 15.
