Papa's Day

What Is Papa's Day?

August 8th is "Papa's Day" in Japan. The date comes from reading "88" as "pa-pa" (papa), and it was established by C-rex Co., a corporate communications company, as a day encouraging fathers to take an active role in housework and childcare.

A Holiday Born in the Era of the "Ikumen" Dad

The Great East Japan Earthquake, which led many people to reconsider the importance of family bonds, is also part of the background behind this observance.

• Purpose: positioned as a day for fathers to proactively take part in housework, childcare, and errands
• Cultural context: it emerged around the same time the word "ikumen" (an actively involved father) was gaining currency, symbolizing a shift in fathers' roles
• The wordplay: simply reading "88" as "papa" makes the date instantly memorable

How It Differs From Father's Day

While Father's Day in June is a day to thank fathers, Papa's Day on August 8th is instead a day for fathers themselves to take action for their families. The shift in perspective -- from being thanked to taking initiative -- is what makes this day unique.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Take on a bit more of the housework or childcare than usual
• Enjoy cooking or shopping together with your kids
• Tell your partner, "Leave it to me today"
• Spend time making summer memories together as a family

A Day for Dads to Act Brings More Smiles to a Family

Rather than simply being thanked, this day encourages fathers to take the initiative -- fitting for an era when family forms are more diverse than ever. Why not make August 8th a day for Papa to roll up his sleeves for the family?