Celebrate National Son and Daughter Day with a Family Feast to Remember

Let’s bring this sweet tradition across the pond

National Son and Daughter Day has been a beloved American tradition since the 1930s. It's a day to pause, reflect, and show appreciation for the children in our lives. 

Whether they’re little ones still learning to tie their laces or grown-up kids building lives of their own, this day is all about celebrating the bond between parents and children.

While not widely known in the UK just yet, this warm-hearted day deserves a global audience. 

What better way to start spreading the love than with a family celebration packed with delicious, kid-friendly party food?

Here’s how to throw a fuss-free, flavour-filled National Son and Daughter Day party, where the menu is as joyful as the memories you’ll make.

Sweet and Savoury Finger Foods to Share

1. DIY Mini Pizzas

Let your kids unleash their inner chefs! Lay out mini pizza bases (or use pitta bread) with bowls of tomato sauce, grated cheese, and toppings like pepperoni, olives, sweetcorn, and peppers. Fun, interactive, and tasty.

2. Rainbow Fruit Skewers

Thread chunks of strawberries, melon, pineapple, kiwi, and grapes onto wooden skewers for a healthy and vibrant snack. Drizzle with a little honey or melted chocolate for a treat.

3. Cheesy Twists

Using ready-rolled puff pastry, twist strips sprinkled with grated cheese, bake until golden, and watch them vanish from the plate. Add a touch of paprika or pesto for a grown-up kick.

4. Sandwich Sushi

Flatten slices of bread, spread with cream cheese or hummus, layer with ham or cucumber, roll tightly, and slice into little ‘sushi’ rounds. Kids love the novelty, and they’re perfect for small hands.

Treats That Double as Activities

Decorate-Your-Own Cupcakes

Pre-bake plain cupcakes and set out icing, sprinkles, chocolate chips, and fruit bits. Whether the end result is Pinterest-worthy or hilariously messy, it’s all part of the fun.

Mocktail Mixing Station

Set up a colourful drinks corner with juices, fruit slices, fizzy water, and umbrellas. Let the kids mix and name their own mocktails, parents and older sons and daughters can get involved too (with or without gin, depending on the hour!).

Little Touches That Make a Big Difference

Create a 'Memory Wall' with printed photos of favourite family moments

Handwrite mini 'thank you' notes to each child with a reason why they’re cherished

Add themed decorations in your child’s favourite colours or hobbies—football bunting, unicorn balloons, or even a Lego centrepiece!

Why It Matters

In a busy world, it’s easy to forget to simply celebrate the people we love most. National Son and Daughter Day gives families a moment to do just that. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, foster carer or mentor, this is a chance to connect, laugh, and make beautiful memories over a plate of sausage rolls and fruit punch.

Let’s start a new tradition here in the UK.