Father’s Day card messages: what to write for Dad
In the UK, Father’s Day is on Sunday 20 June 2027. A good card message thanks Dad for something real and shows you know him – “Thanks for every lift, every bad joke and every bit of good advice. Happy Father’s Day, Dad” is a great start. Below are heartfelt, funny and short messages for dads, grandads, stepdads and new dads.
When is Father’s Day 2027 in the UK?
Father’s Day in the UK is always the third Sunday in June. In 2027 that is Sunday 20 June. The USA uses the same rule, so it’s the same date there, but some countries – including Australia – celebrate on a different date.
How to write a Father’s Day message
- Be specific. Mention a lesson he taught you, a trip, or a habit only he has.
- Don’t be afraid of a little emotion. Plenty of dads keep the soppy cards in a drawer for years.
- Humour is fine – many families show love through teasing. A funny line plus one sincere one is a winning combination.
Heartfelt Father’s Day messages for Dad
- Thanks for every lift, every bad joke and every bit of good advice. Happy Father’s Day, Dad.
- You showed me what hard work and kindness look like. I’m proud to be your son/daughter.
- Dad, you’ve always been my safety net. Thank you for catching me so many times.
- Whatever I’ve achieved, you were there cheering from the sidelines. Thank you.
- I don’t say it enough, but I love you, Dad. Happy Father’s Day.
- The older I get, the more I sound like you – and I’m OK with that.
- Thank you for teaching me to ride a bike, change a tyre and never give up.
- You’re the measure I hold every good man up to. Happy Father’s Day.
Funny Father’s Day messages
- Happy Father’s Day to the king of dad jokes. Your reign continues.
- Thanks for passing on your good looks. And sorry about the grey hairs I caused.
- Dad, you’re the best. I’m not just saying that because I need a lift.
- Happy Father’s Day! Today you’re allowed to control the thermostat.
- Thanks for always knowing a shortcut, even when it made us later.
- I’d say you’re my favourite parent, but Mum might read this.
- Happy Father’s Day to the man with a tool for every job and a story for every occasion.
Father’s Day messages from young children
- Daddy, you’re the best at piggybacks in the whole world!
- Happy Father’s Day! I love you more than ice cream.
- Thank you for playing with me, even when you’re tired.
- My daddy is a superhero (but he can’t fly yet).
Father’s Day messages for a grandad
- Happy Father’s Day, Grandad. Thank you for the stories, the sweets and the wisdom.
- To the best grandad anyone could ask for – with love from all your grandchildren.
- Grandpa, you make every visit an adventure. Happy Father’s Day.
Father’s Day messages for a stepdad or father figure
- You chose to be my dad, and that means the world. Happy Father’s Day.
- Thank you for always being there for me. You’re a dad in every way that matters.
- To the man who stepped up – thank you for everything.
- Happy Father’s Day to my father-in-law. Thank you for welcoming me into the family.
Father’s Day messages for a husband or partner
- Watching you with our children makes me love you even more. Happy Father’s Day.
- The kids are so lucky to have you as their dad.
- Thank you for being such an amazing dad and partner. We love you.
Messages for a new dad’s first Father’s Day
- Happy first Father’s Day! You’re doing an amazing job.
- Welcome to the dad club. Membership includes dad jokes and very little sleep.
- [Baby’s name] is so lucky to have you. Happy first Father’s Day.
For more baby wording, see what to write in a new baby card.
Short Father’s Day messages
- Happy Father’s Day, Dad!
- Best dad ever.
- Love you, Dad.
- Thanks for everything.
- Cheers to you, Dad!
- One in a million.
Father’s Day messages when Dad has died
Father’s Day can be painful for anyone grieving their dad, or for a dad who has lost a child. If you’re writing to a friend, “Thinking of you this Father’s Day” acknowledges the day kindly. For a card to keep or leave at a grave, you might write:
- Dad, I still reach for the phone to tell you things. Missing you today and every day.
- Happy Father’s Day to the dad I carry with me always.
- Thinking of you and remembering your wonderful dad today.
Our memorial messages and sympathy card messages have more gentle wording.
Sign-offs and finishing touches
| Who | Sign-off |
|---|---|
| Dad | Love, Your favourite son/daughter, Love always |
| Grandad | Lots of love from your grandchildren |
| Stepdad or father-in-law | With love, With love and thanks |
| From young children | Let them write their name – or add a handprint |
Sending a present too? See our gift tag messages.
Questions people ask
When is Father’s Day 2027 in the UK?
Father’s Day in the UK is on Sunday 20 June 2027. It is always the third Sunday in June.
What is a simple Father’s Day message?
“Happy Father’s Day, Dad – thanks for everything. Love you.” Add a memory or in-joke to make it personal.
What do you write in a Father’s Day card for a stepdad?
Acknowledge the choice he made to be there for you: “You’re a dad in every way that matters. Happy Father’s Day.” Keep it as warm as your relationship allows.
What do you write to a friend whose dad has died?
Something short and gentle, such as “Thinking of you this Father’s Day and remembering your dad.” Mentioning him by name can be a comfort.
Gift ideas to go with the card
See our Father’s Day gifts guide, or personalised gifts for him for something with his name on.
More card messages: Mother’s Day card messages · Birthday card messages · Memorial messages