American Family Day

American Family Day is a great opportunity to spend more time with family and friends. Giving things is not acceptable – the emphasis is on good relations and kindred love. It is easier for many people to ‘pay off’ others with a gift than to show sincere concern – therefore, it was decided to avoid this custom.

History

American Family Day was an initiative of Arizona Governor Raul Hector Castro in 1977. The following year, the holiday was declared a public holiday.

The need for a celebration dedicated to family ties stems from the natural significance of blood relationship in the life of any person.

Interesting facts

• In addition to people, long-term family ties are formed by elephants: even growing up, children remain with their mothers. Elephants tend to take care of relatives and protect them.
• An empathic attitude towards blood relatives is shown by many higher primates. The bonds between children and mothers are especially strong.
• The average American family has three children.

How to take part

Gather the whole family around the festive table. You can organize a feast not only for those who live with you in the same house, but also for relatives whom you rarely see. Send out invitations and wait for them to visit – just warn that they don’t need to bring anything: the presence itself is important.

Ask your parents and grandparents about family traditions and customs. They will be pleased with such attention – the older generation always has something to tell the younger.

If you have children, be sure to make time for them. Tell them how you appreciate and love them – it is important for children to hear this.

Immerse yourself in joint warm memories, listen to your loved ones: they probably have something to tell you. Avoid conflicts so that a good undertaking does not turn into a day of quarrels and mutual insults.

When is American Family Day celebrated in 2024?

American Family Day is observed on the first Sunday of August each year.

Observations