Origin of Grandfather's Day

For some decades, the Day of the Grandfather has been celebrated in Mexico ; a special celebration that occurs every August 28 and that aims to commemorate and honor these special people in the lives of all people. During this day, all Mexicans celebrate the love and wisdom of all our grandparents.

But, do you want to know where Grandfather's Day comes from and why is it celebrated on August 28 ?

History of Grandfather's Day

In most Spanish-speaking countries, Grandfather's Day is celebrated on August 26. However, in our country, this festival takes place on August 28 and although there are many stories about its origin, they are still interesting.

For example, some sources suggest that Grandfather's Day was celebrated during the time of Porfirio Díaz on July 28, because this day is celebrated by Saint Augustine of Hippo, a saint of great importance to the Catholic Church.

Others say that during the interim government of Abelardo Rodríguez, between 1932 and 1934, it was when Grandfather's Day was created and instituted in Mexico. Anniversary that years later would be ratified during the six-year term of President Lázaro Cárdenas, who ruled from 1934 to 1940.

On the other hand, there are also those who assure that in 1957 the first Pan American Congress of Gerontology took place in Mexico , which was chaired by Dr. Manuel Payno. It is said that in that event, the Colombian Guillermo Marroquín, proposed that a day dedicated to grandparents and grandmothers be held every August 28 throughout Latin America.

Finally, there is another version that says that, in reality , Grandfather's Day has its recent origin, two decades ago, in a radio program that was hosted by Edgar Gaytán Monzon. The program was titled “La Hora Azu” and it was aimed at older adults who were lovers of trios, boleros and all the music from the golden age of Mexican cinema.