Many countries around the world celebrate Father's Day, but dates and customs vary.

The roots of Father's Day go all the way back to Babylon. Found among the ruins of that city was a card made out of clay. On it, was a message from a young boy named Elmesu to his father. It was a Father's Day message of good health and a long life, given to his Babylonian father nearly 4,000 years ago.

What happened to Elmesu or his father remains a mystery, but the tradition of honoring fathers' has carried on through the centuries, not only here in the United States, but all over the world.

In countries where the Catholic Church has had an important role within the culture, the Father's Day celebration is held on St. Joseph's Day, which is March 19th.

In modern times, Father’s Day celebrations not associated with any religion have been the pastime in many of countries. Not only does this honor the long-time tradition of celebrating dads, but it also reflects the diversity of the countries and the people within those countries themselves.

Father’s Day Dates Around the Globe:

Argentina: Third Sunday in June

Australia: First Sunday in September

Belgium: St. Joseph's Day and the second Sunday in June

Brazil: Second Sunday in August

Bulgaria: June 20th

Canada: Third Sunday in June

Chile: Third Sunday in June

Denmark: Second Sunday in November

Finland: Second Sunday in November

France: Third Sunday in June

Germany: Ascension Thursday (40 days after Easter)

Japan: Third Sunday in June

Lithuania: First Sunday in June

Netherlands: Third Sunday in June

New Zealand: First Sunday in September

Norway : Second Sunday in November

Portugal: St. Joseph's Day, March 19th

Spain: St. Joseph's Day, March 19th

Sweden: Second Sunday in November

Taiwan: August 8th

Thailand: December 5th

United Kingdom : Third Sunday in June

United States: Third Sunday in June

Source: Chiff.com: Father's Day Celebrations Around The World