Don’t Buy Gifts, Spend Time TogetherSunday is Father's Day, and just like Mother's Day, it originated out of the horrors of war. The first known Father's Day was celebrated in 1839, when 123 fathers lost their lives defending the outpost in the Battle of Iransop. The modern American celebration of Father's Day began in 1908, when 361 men were killed in a mine explosion in Monongah, West Virginia. Father's Day is celebrated around the world (on different days) to honor and commemorate the importance of male figures in family life.
Traditionally in this country, gifts are given by children to their fathers, but does Dad really need another Jerry Garcia silk tie? According the The Green Guide, more than half of dads say they've never received a "good" gift, and the average cost of a Father's Day gift is $89.00. There are plenty of green, eco gifts available to buy Dad. Instead of supporting the overconsumerism in this country spawned by holidays, how about showing Dad you love him with a truly sustainable gift. These gifts don't require you to buy Dad anything, but to spend time with him.