What is Grandparents' Day and when is it in the UK?
Last updated 21st October 2024
4 min read
Grandparents come in all shapes and sizes. But they all have one thing in common – the love and pride they have for their grandchildren. Being a grandparent is an important role, so it's only fitting that we give a little back on Grandparents’ Day.
So what is Grandparents' Day?
Grandparents’ Day is a day that acknowledges and celebrates the importance of grandparents. It’s an opportunity for families to show their thanks and respect for the older generation.
Families can celebrate by spending time together and sharing stories. It’s a day to enjoy quality time between grandparents and their grandchildren.
It will be joyous for many. But it will also be a sad time for others too, as we reflect on the grandparents we've loved and lost.
While it’s not as widely celebrated as Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, Grandparents’ Day is getting more popular. And it’s the ideal time to spend some quality time with your grandchildren.
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When is Grandparents' Day in the UK?
In the United Kingdom, Grandparents’ Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of October. In 2025, it’ll be celebrated on 5th October.
The origins of Grandparents' Day?
Originating in America, Grandparents’ Day became a recognised holiday in 1978.
This was thanks to Marian McQuade. While volunteering in a nursing home, she found that many of the residents got little to no visitors. So she created a day to highlight the importance of the older generation.
On 3rd August 1978, President Jimmy Carter announced that the day is:
“To honour grandparents. To give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children's children. And to help children become aware of strength, information, and guidance older people can offer.”
Grandparents’ Day was first introduced in the UK in 1990 by Age Concern. Since October 2008, it’s been celebrated on the first Sunday of October every year.
How to celebrate Grandparents' Day
The importance of Grandparents’ Day is to spend some quality time with your family. Gifts and surprises are lovely, but this holiday is all about uniting the two generations. It’s a chance to share love and knowledge.
Here are some ideas on how to make the most of your time with the little ones this Grandparents’ Day.
1. Make a photo album
Photo albums are a great way to share stories and adventures of time gone by.
Why not show them photos of your past adventures? It’s a fun way to reflect together and is sure to make you all smile.
2. Bake
Is there anything tastier than a freshly baked cake? Why not head to the kitchen with your grandchildren and make some sweet treats.
If you’re lucky enough to live close to your grandchildren, you can make memories in the kitchen. But if they’re far away, why not video call and make the same recipe together?
3. Play a game
From board games to fancy dress, playing games with your grandchildren is a lovely way to connect. Plus, it’s a great way for them to learn new skills.
Card and board games can improve memory and boost brain function. They also teach children problem-solving skills.
4. Go for a walk
A walk is a great way to spend time with your grandchildren and educate them about the natural world. It’s also a healthy activity for the whole family.
The weather may be a little chilly in October, but parks and green spaces look beautiful in autumn.
5. Get crafty
If you’re looking to support your grandchildren’s creativity, arts and crafts are perfect.
You can use things you already have around the house or buy ready-made craft kits. Activities like these also mean you and your grandchild have a memento to hold on to after the day.
Whether it’s paper crafts, painting or Play-Doh, there are loads of things you can try out together.
6. Watch a film
A perfect way to end the day is relaxing together with a good film.
Why not build a pillow fort, eat some popcorn and watch the latest animated film together? This will be the perfect way to wind down and get the little ones ready for home or bedtime.
Next steps
If you’ve enjoyed learning about Grandparents’ Day, you may want to take a look at some of our other lifestyle blogs. Want to know what type of grandparent you are? Take our quiz today.
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