Our story
It started in a garage. Now it toasts across the country.
In 2012 John Francis wanted to show off his garage to some friends, all of them dads, so he threw a party the night before Father’s Day. About 30 came.
167
Dads who have hosted, all time
150+
Markets, all time
7,000+
People reached by one online toast, 2020
Celebrating fatherhood, everywhere.
This “Holiday” is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of fatherhood, connect dads with each other and fatherhood resources they want, and add value to the communities we live and serve as fathers and father figures.
2012 to 2014
The garage years
It started as an excuse to show off a garage. Year two added a rented putting game, hi-top tables and about 50 people. By 2014 the garage was full, and it was obvious this was bigger than one driveway.
2015 to 2016
A name worth protecting
Six business partners organized Fathers Eve LLC, and the Minnesota night moved out of the garage and into O’Gara’s Bar and Grill. The name was trademarked on September 27, 2016, so nobody could turn it into something it was not.
2017 to 2019
It crosses borders
The idea travelled. More than 35 locations, including the UK and Costa Rica. Then 43 with Canada. Then 60 with Mexico. Along the way the nights started raising money for the National At-Home Dad Network.
2020
The year it went online
Covid closed every venue, so the night went online. More than 7,000 people joined a four-hour broadcast, with a live countdown to 8pm in each of the four US time zones. The toast still happened, just on a lot of screens.
2021 to 2024
Back in the room
First a hybrid night at Bent Distillery, then fully back in the room. In 2023 John launched Fathers Eve Connection, a podcast with the people doing the work for dads. By 2024 there were thirty-five cities on the list, with the virtual event streamed live for anyone without one nearby.
2025 to today
Still growing
Every June, more dads say yes to hosting, from Punch Bowl Social in Minneapolis to a private residence in Cincinnati. Same night, same toast, and more than 150 markets so far.
The founding father
John threw a party and never stopped.
John Francis is the founder of Fathers Eve. Fourteen years in, he still hosts the Minnesota event, and you can still reach him directly.
If you are interested in hosting a Fathers Eve® event or have a question, feel free to e-mail or call. He is always happy to discuss Fathers Eve.
From the garage to today.
2012, the garage
2014, a full garage
2016, HomeDadCon
2024, Minneapolis