Father’s Day, dedicated to honoring and celebrating the father figures in our lives, takes place this year on Sunday, June 16.
Though the day is less celebrated than Mother’s Day, celebrate fathers, spouses, step-fathers, brothers, or role models. The celebration began in the early 20th century in the United States, thanks to a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd. Sonora’s father, William Jackson Smart, was a single dad who raised her and her five siblings after their mother passed away.
She admired her father’s dedication and hard work and felt that fathers deserved a special day just like mothers, who already had their own day of celebration.
In 1910, Sonora got her wish. The first Father’s Day was commemorated in Spokane, Washington, on June 19th. The idea quickly spread, and people loved having a chance to show appreciation for their fathers. By 1972, Father’s Day became an official holiday in the United States. Since then, it has been honored in many countries around the world.
So, if like Sonora, a thrilling urge in you demands you celebrate the father figures in your life, SENS has plotted together various ways you can make the day momentous for your male guardians, especially in Rwanda.
1. Special Meal
You don’t need to go far to have a great time with your dad. Why not cook a special meal for him? You could prepare some of his favorite dishes, like brochettes (grilled meat skewers), isombe (cassava leaves), and akabenzi (pork). Or spoil him with breakfast in bed—this isn’t just for Mother’s Day! Dads can enjoy it too. Sharing a homemade meal shows love and appreciation, and it’s a beautiful way to spend time together.
2. Go on a Nature Walk
Rwanda is known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills” for a reason. The country is full of beautiful places, perfect for a family hike or nature walk. You can visit spots like Nyungwe Forest National Park or the shores of Lake Kivu. Spending time outside together in different settings will allow you to bond and enjoy Rwanda’s natural beauty.
3. Write a Heartfelt Letter
Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that come from the heart. Write a heartfelt letter to your dad, expressing your gratitude and love. Share your favorite memories and tell him how much he means to you. A sincere letter can be a treasured keepsake that your dad will cherish for years.
4. Attend a Local Event
Check if any local events or festivals are happening on Father’s Day. Rwanda has a lively cultural scene, and going to a music or dance performance could be a fun way to celebrate. It’s also a great chance to enjoy Rwandan culture together.
5. Give a Thoughtful Gift
For more meaningful gifts, an original present might be the best route. Think about what the father figure in your life likes. It could be something useful like a new tool or a book. You could make something by hand or choose cool accessories like cologne, ties, or cufflinks. The most important thing is to show that you’ve put thought into it.
6. Throw a party
Since summer’s coming, why not organize a cookout for all the dads in the family? You could invite his friends and plan a surprise party for him. Food, drinks, and games with his best buddies will make him happy.
7. Spend Quality Time Together
The greatest gift for your dad is your time. Whether it’s watching a movie, playing a game, or just talking, spending quality time together can be an exceptional way to celebrate. You could even have a fun classic wine and paint night at home together, enjoying each other’s company without going anywhere.
Most father figures in our lives probably have the same traits. Silent love, shown through actions and thoughts, but perhaps not enunciated words.
But it doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy acknowledgment and appreciation.
This Father’s Day, whether you go big with gestures or small with a nice chat, the most important thing is to show them how much they mean to you and make some wonderful memories together. Happy Father’s Day!
