They are loving, caring, and our biggest cheerleaders. As the heads of our families, grandparents truly are some of the most special people in our lives. How do we say thank you to our grandparents for their years of support and love? National Grandparent’s Day is September 13, and we would love to give some insight on the history of this important day that we celebrate to show Grandma and Grandpa just how much they mean to us!
When and Why Grandparents Day is Celebrated
Grandparents Day is celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor Day. According to Family Line Video, September was chosen as the month to celebrate our grandparents because it is a symbol of the “autumn years” of life. Additionally, September is generally when kiddos head back to school, so this provides an opportunity for children to interview their grandmas and grandpas for school reports. Grandparents have a unique outlook on life because of the many years they have lived, thus teachers widely recognize that grandparents can serve as valuable references for historical occurrences being taught in the classroom!
But just how did Grandparents Day become a thing? We have Marian McQuade to thank for that. She had the idea in the early 1970s that there should be a holiday which would allow families time to visit their elderly relatives living in nursing homes.
McQuade worked with politicians to bring this idea to life and was sure to emphasize just how important the family history and wisdom that grandparents can offer their grandchildren was. McQuade knew this to be true from the experiences and close relationship she shared with her own grandmother.
Through her adulthood, McQuade worked closely with the elderly. First when she was appointed to the West Virginia Committee on Aging, then the Nursing Home Licensing Board, and ultimately to the White House Conference on Aging. Her hard work paid off and on August 3, 1978, President Jimmy Carter declared Grandparent’s Day a national holiday.
McQuade passed away at 91 years old but continues to live on in the hearts of her children and grandchildren. It is because of McQuade and her appreciation for the elderly that generations to come get to enjoy this special holiday.
Ways to Honor Your Grandparents
There are many ways to show your grandparents just how much you love them this Grandparents Day. From cooking their favorite meal, to going through old photo albums, to asking them to share their favorite stories from when they were growing up. No matter how you choose to celebrate, your grandparents are sure to feel loved and appreciated on their special day.
Skyline Cruises Celebrates Grandparents Day
Since 1993, the Skyline Princess has been hosting family events large and small. See for yourself why our beautiful luxury yacht is widely regarded as the most popular yacht in New York Harbor. Our friendly, professional team is devoted to ensuring a safe and wonderful time for you, your family, and friends. For more information about Skyline’s private event cruises, contact us today!
