What to Write in a Father's Day Card

Father’s Day is the perfect moment to celebrate the dads, stepdads, grandads, partners, and new fathers who mean so much to us. But when it comes to actually writing those feelings in a card, it can be surprisingly tricky to find the right words.

Whether you want to make him laugh, get sentimental, or just keep it short and sweet, this guide has you covered. Below you’ll find a wide mix of Father’s Day card message ideas, from heartfelt to funny, celebrating milestones to simple one-liners, so you can personalise your message for every kind of dad and father figure.

Ready to get started? Explore our personalised Father’s Day cards and make it even more special with photos, custom text, and unique designs.

Funny Father’s Day Messages

Looking for funny Father’s Day messages to make your dad smile? A bit of light-hearted humour goes a long way. Here are some witty ideas:

• “Happy Father’s Day! Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone about the secret snack stash behind the sofa.”

• “Thanks for always being my go-to DIY expert… even when the job requires an actual professional.”

• “You’re the best dad — and the king of BBQ disasters we’ll never forget.”

• “Happy Father’s Day! I promise not to steal the TV remote today.”

• “Cheers to the man who can fix anything… except his golf swing.”

Want more? Check out funny Father’s Day card designs to pair with your perfect message.

First Father’s Day Messages

A first Father’s Day message is a big deal — whether from a partner or “from the baby,” it’s a milestone worth celebrating.

From Partner to New Dad:

• “Happy First Father’s Day — watching you step into fatherhood has been the most beautiful thing.”

• “This year you became a dad, and you’re already amazing at it. We’re so lucky to have you.”

• “Your first Father’s Day — the start of a lifetime of love, laughter, and bedtime stories.”

From Baby (or on their behalf):

• “Happy First Father’s Day, Daddy! Thanks for all the cuddles and late-night lullabies.”

• “I might be small, but I love you BIG, Daddy!”

Father’s Day Card Messages for Dad

Need a classic Father’s Day card message for your dad? Here’s a mix of heartfelt and simple options:

• “Happy Father’s Day to the best dad ever — thanks for always being there with advice, laughs, and endless support.”

• “Thank you for teaching me everything I know (including the bad dad jokes). Love you!”

• “To the world’s greatest dad — I wouldn’t be me without you.”

• “Happy Father’s Day, Dad. You’re my role model and my hero.”

• “Thanks for all the lifts, life lessons, and love.”

For a simpler note:

• “Happy Father’s Day — love you lots.”

• “Best Dad ever. Full stop.”

Father’s Day Messages for Stepdad

Stepdads hold a special place in the heart. Here are thoughtful ideas for Father’s Day card messages for stepdads:

• “Happy Father’s Day to the bonus dad who’s been there every step of the way.”

• “Thanks for being a guiding hand and a great friend. So glad to have you in my life.”

• “You may not have been here from the start, but you’ve made all the difference.”

Father’s Day Messages for Grandpa

Grandads deserve love, too! These Father’s Day messages for grandpa are warm and timeless:

• “Happy Father’s Day, Grandpa. Thanks for the stories, cuddles, and wisdom.”

• “You’ve always been there to spoil me — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

• “Happy Father’s Day to the world’s best grandad. We love you more than biscuits!”

Father’s Day Messages from Kids

For Father’s Day messages from kids, keep it sweet and simple:

• “Happy Father’s Day, Daddy! You’re my hero.”

• “Love you lots, Dad — thanks for all the hugs.”

• “You’re the best dad ever (even when you say no to ice cream).”

Father’s Day Messages from Wife

A Father’s Day message from wife can be romantic, appreciative, or heartfelt:

• “Happy Father’s Day to the love of my life and the best dad to our kids.”

• “Watching you as a dad makes me love you even more.”

• “Thanks for being my partner in parenting — and in everything else.”

Short & Simple Father’s Day Messages

In a hurry? Here are short Father’s Day messages perfect for quick notes, tags, or captions:

• “Love you, Dad.”

• “Best Dad ever.”

• “Thanks for everything.”

• “You’re my hero.”

• “Happy Father’s Day!”

• “Number one Dad.”

• “Couldn’t ask for better.”

What Not to Write in a Father’s Day Card

A quick tip: steer clear of these common pitfalls when writing your card:

• Guilt-tripping: Avoid comments like “You never call me” or “Remember when you forgot my birthday?”

• Over-the-top jokes about aging: Light humour is fine, but skip harsh age digs.

• Comparisons to other dads: Keep the message positive and personal.

Make It Personal with Moonpig

Once you’ve found the perfect words, make them truly special with Moonpig’s personalised Father’s Day cards. Upload photos, add custom text, and design a card that’s as unique as he is — all printed and delivered straight to his door.

Celebrate Father’s Day your way — with heartfelt words, a touch of humour, and a card made just for him.