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Lesson Transcript

Hello, and welcome to the Culture Class- Holidays in Hong Kong Series at CantoneseClass101.com. In this series, we’re exploring the traditions behind holidays and observances in Hong Kong. I’m Eric, and you're listening to Season 1, Lesson 10- Father's Day, or 父親節 in Cantonese.
In Hong Kong, Father's Day falls on the third Sunday of June each year. Let's take a look at how people celebrate this day in Hong Kong!
Now, before we get into more detail, I've got a question for you-
Do you know when Father’s Day was officially established in the United States?
If you don't already know, you’ll find out a bit later, so keep listening!
In general, people in Hong Kong don't celebrate Father's Day as much as they do Mother's Day. This is probably because many fathers in Hong Kong spend most of their time at work to provide for their families, so they don't have much time to spend with their children. Due to this setup, young children in particular tend to be closer with their mothers. Regardless of how much time they are able to spend at home, fathers are appreciated and celebrated on Father's day.
Just like Mother's Day, most families celebrate Father's Day by eating out together at a restaurant. During the meal, sons and daughters give small gifts and cards to their fathers. The gifts that are given on Father's Day are usually related to each father's personal interests or hobbies; for example, fathers who like to play golf, or 哥爾夫球, might receive a golf club, whereas those who like having the latest technology, or 新科技, might receive electronic products, and so on.
In the traditional Chinese concept of "strict father tender mother," or 嚴父慈母, fathers are perceived as being serious, while mothers have the image of being amiable. According to this concept, a father's love for his children is subtle and introverted. The same goes for fathers-in-law. In Cantonese, fathers-in-law are called 外父 or 老爺.
Now it's time to answer our quiz question-
Do you know when Father’s Day was officially established in the United States?
Father's Day was established in the United States in 1972. The U.S. President at the time, Richard Nixon, or 尼克遜, officially declared the third Sunday of June to be a day to celebrate fathers in the United States.
How was this lesson? Did you learn anything interesting?
When is Father's Day celebrated in your country?
Leave us a comment at CantoneseClass101.com.
We'll see you next time!

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