Grandparents Day is the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with your family. While it’s sometimes dismissed as being another commercial holiday, the origins behind Grandparents Day might surprise you. As you buy flowers and a special gift for the grandparents in your life, take a minute to discover the touching story behind this holiday.

Back in 1956 in West Virginia, there was a woman named Marian McQuade who was helping to organize a local celebration for the elderly. While planning the festivities, she realized just how many nursing home residents were no longer visited by any family members or friends. Touched by their situations, McQuade wanted to create a holiday that brought attention to seniors and celebrated grandparents everywhere. In 1973, West Virginia was the first state to do so, thanks to McQuade’s efforts.

After achieving success at the state level, McQuade and others then took the idea nationally, eventually getting Grandparents Day observed as an official national holiday in 1978. Since then, the holiday has been celebrated every year on the first Sunday after Labor Day.

Staying true to McQuade’s original intent, the purpose of this holiday is to honor grandparents and help children realize the care, resilience, and wisdom the elderly offer. The best way to celebrate this holiday is by showing the grandparents in your life that they are truly appreciated. You can buy flowers, take them out for a nice lunch, share treasured family memories, or visit their favorite museum. Make kids a part of the celebration too, as they’re important to this holiday as well. While spending some quality time together, children can show their appreciation for their grandparents and reflect on how they’ve enriched their lives.

 

If you’re looking for a place to buy flowers or flower arrangements in Erlanger, KY, visit Swan Floral & Gift Shop. Serving both the Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati areas, this local flower shop has everything you need to celebrate a special occasion. Visit them online to learn more, or give them a call at (859) 342-7575 to get in touch with a florist today. You can also connect with the staff on Facebook.