As Father’s Day nears, Chinese families in Southern California show love through simple, heartfelt gestures. In one Irvine backyard, a son’s gift has quietly bloomed into a tribute to filial devotion.
Former Irvine Chinese School principal Jiapyng Niu shared that her son Sean Niu spent six months creating an Eastern-style garden for his father—clearing, planting, and laying stones. A small bridge, lanterns, and greenery now form a peaceful haven of love.
Stone lanterns, lush greenery, and a small wooden bridge now form a serene haven—crafted with love.
To make the moment special,young Henry led a symbolic bridge-opening. The gesture deeply moved Dr. Niu—a quiet, living expression of "xiao“, the timeless heart of Chinese love and respect.
In the U.S., Father’s Day falls on the third Sunday of June, often during summer break. Unlike Mother’s Day, which is marked by school-made cards and gifts, Father’s Day in Chinese immigrant homes often passes quietly unless specially planned.
In American communities, Father’s Day is often celebrated with events like races, ball games, cruises, or wine tastings.
But in many Chinese immigrant homes, it’s the simple gestures—shared meals and quiet moments together—that hold the deepest meaning.
Irvine dad Paul shared that his kids make breakfast every Father’s Day. “It’s simple, but it warms our hearts,” he said.
Another father, Sunpil Jang, still treasures the handmade coasters and handprints his children gave him years ago—small school gifts saved for the holiday.
Jiapyng Niu remembers her own son’s first Father’s Day gift at age three—a small rock he painted for his dad.
That little stone has traveled with the family through three different homes over three decades and remains lovingly kept to this day.
“Filial love is the heart of Chinese culture—timeless and lived through quiet, daily acts,” said Jiapyng Niu. “It’s not taught by words, but shown through love.”
Her son, raised watching his father honor his elders, built the garden with that same devotion—inviting his young nephew to join. In this simple act, “xiao” quietly flows through four generations.
It’s this tender, lasting bond that makes filial love one of Chinese culture’s most moving legacies.
Father’s Day Facts：
The United States was the first country to officially recognize Father’s Day.
Other countries-like the United Kingdom, Canada, parts of China, Japan, Singapore, and Malaysia—later adopted the same date or selected different ones based on their own cultural traditions.
Origin:
In 1909, Sonora Smart Dodd proposed Father’s Day to honor her dad.
First Celebration:
First celebrated on June 19, 1910, in Washington State.
National Holiday:
In 1972, President Nixon made it a national holiday—3rd Sunday of June.
Spirit:
A time to show love and gratitude to dads.