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Updated Mar 06, 202535 Birthday Wishes for Your Father-in-Law That'll Get Him Smiling
Every dad loves hearing they're rad on their birthday.
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You've bought the card and a bottle of the best single-barrel bourbon around (premium liquor is always a great father-in-law gift), so now it's time to bid your partner's dad happy birthday. But have you given any thought to the birthday wishes for your father-in-law you'll jot down in his card? If you're stumped, don't worry—we love a good birthday card challenge.
To offer some inscription inspiration, we've created a list of the most hilarious, genuine, honest and moving sentiments to sample for your own birthday dedications guaranteed to make your FIL crack a smile. So start compiling your best dad jokes, sweet stories and your favorite qualities about the man who raised your love and let's get to work. Keep reading for the best birthday messages for your father-in-law.
In this article:
- What to Write in Your Father-in-Law's Birthday Card
- Funny Birthday Wishes for Your Father-in-Law
- Touching Birthday Wishes for Your Father-in-Law
- FIL Birthday Messages From His Daughter-in-Law
- FIL Birthday Messages From His Son-in-Law
- Birthday Wishes for Your Future Father-in-Law
What to Write in Your Father-in-Law's Birthday Card
Writing a well-thought-out birthday greeting for a mother-in-law, father-in-law or parent-in-law is not an exact science, so before you start stressing over your prose, remember that the most important thing is that your birthday wishes come from the heart. The best birthday wishes for a father-in-law derive from a combination of inside jokes, throwback references to some of your favorite memories and some "you deserve the best day" sentimentality. If you can hit at least two of those hallmarks, you're on the right path.
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Now, if you've only just started getting to know each other, composing a tear-jerking message might feel a little weird—we get that. In instances like these, we say go with something classic and conversational in your birthday letter to your father-in-law—wishing him a special day filled with his most-loved things (and yes, giving him a parent-in-law gift will always go over well) is a fail-safe option. Also, if he has a favorite celebrity or sports player, feel free to write a famous "Happy Birthday" quote from them if it seems fitting. What you write really just depends on the type of relationship with your father-in-law you have.
At the end of the (birth)day, your father-in-law will be thrilled with any card he receives from you. But hey, if we can get your Robert De Niro-loving FIL to say, "You, you, you gotta gift, my friend," after reading your awesome birthday message, we'll happily take the win.
Still not sure how to say happy birthday to your father-in-law? Check out some of our ideas below!
Funny Birthday Wishes for Your Father-in-Law
Okay, we know not all fathers-in-law are funny, but if yours is always trying to bring smiles to their family members' faces with a laugh or two, you can certainly return the favor. These funny birthday card messages for your father-in-law will get you noticed—game recognizes game. And isn't that the dream, to be able to joke around with your partner's pop without risking excommunication?
Another trip around the sun…phew, you must be wiped, old man! Happy Birthday!
I tried to come up with five things I loved about you, but that was hard (haha, just kidding). Happy Birthday to the king of comedy!
When it comes to dad roasts, mine can't hang—so I'm so glad I have you. Have a good one, my guy!
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For a dad, your fashion game is strong. So, can you help your [son/daughter/child] in that arena? (They're struggling, but don't tell them I said that.)
You're not getting older, you're just increasing in value. Like a fine wine...or a rare collectible...or a vintage car. Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday, Father-in-Law! You've officially reached the age where your back goes out more than you do.
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Happy Birthday to my amazing father-in-law! May your day be as unforgettable as your dance moves at family gatherings.
Touching Birthday Wishes for Your Father-in-Law
If you got lucky with a father-in-law who fixes everything (no, seriously, everything) or comes to your aid at the drop of a hat, we have two words for you: cherish him. One day, your children (if you have/want them!) will be thanking you for all you do and you'll want to be able to say that you learned from the best. With these heart-touching birthday wishes for your father-in-law, you'll absolutely have him wondering why he's welling up.
I always thought it was a myth for a [son/daughter/child]-in-law to love their in-laws, but I'm eating my words now. You're amazing—Happy Birthday.
Thank you for raising the best person in my life—you continue to blow me away with just how good you are. Enjoy your day!
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I love that I can call you Dad with no hesitation. Happy Birthday—hope your day is everything and more!
Happy Birthday to the man who used to be in my phone as "[spouse's name]'s father." That only lasted a little while—you're Dad #2 now.
Thank you for all you do. We can't say it enough. Happy Birthday.
I hope your birthday is as amazing as you are. I'm so thankful for you!
Happy Birthday! I'm so grateful for everything you've done for our family and for always making me feel like I'm one of your own.
FIL Birthday Messages From His Daughter-in-Law
Fathers-in-law all want one thing: for their children to end up with good partners. Good partners who they can split a bottle of Barcelona red with are a bonus. If you want to wish your FIL the best birthday, try some of these "Happy Birthday" greetings from a daughter-in-law on for size.
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[Spouse's name] got your best qualities. And I got the best [husband/wife/partner]. So, thank you, birthday boy. You did well!
You're truly a class act, Mr. [last name]. Promise me you'll relax today!
Fathers-in-law like you are so hard to come by. I'm not even going to question how I got so lucky, but I did. Happy Birthday.
I truly feel like a daughter to you. Happy Birthday, Dad.
The best father-in-law deserves the best birthday. Here's to you!
To the best father-in-law, thank you for welcoming me into the family with open arms. Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday, Dad-in-law! I'm so lucky to have you in my life. Thanks for being awesome!
FIL Birthday Messages From His Son-in-Law
If you've got a pretty tight relationship with your father-in-law, that's a special thing. This year, don't be afraid to tell the big guy how much you hope to turn out like him someday. Because when it comes to birthday messages for a dad-in-law from a son-in-law, notes that come from a place of respect and admiration go a long way.
I know [spouse's name] always had a standup father growing up and I hope I can live up to your legacy! Happy Birthday, Dad, you deserve it!
Thank you for being there for us whenever we need it (even when we don't always deserve it). Hope this birthday is one for the books.
I like being your son-in-law just as much as I like being [spouse's name]'s husband. Best birthday wishes.
It's your birthday, man—go crazy!
I should say this a lot more than I do, but you're a great role model, FIL. Party on today and every day from here on out.
You're a legend. Happy Birthday to the best.
Cheers to you, big guy! Next round of beers is on me.
Birthday Wishes for Your Future Father-in-Law
You might be waiting until your official "I do"s to start calling your partner's father's dad, but you can still share future father-in-law birthday wishes that make him feel like you're family. Say "Happy Birthday" to your father-in-law of the future with one of the short and sweet messages below. They're meaningful and memorable, so don't be surprised if he borrows some phrasing when he goes to deliver his toast at your rehearsal dinner.
Excited to be a part of your birthday celebration—and I can't wait to share more memories as the years go on.
A little birdie told me you like chocolate cake, hope this one takes the (birthday) cake!
I know we're not officially family yet, but it sure does feel like it. Happy Birthday!
I was going to write something sentimental, but you might want to save those tears for the wedding. Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday! You're a great dad—I'm excited I get to call you that soon, myself!
Happy Birthday to my soon-to-be father-in-law! I feel so lucky to have found a partner who was raised by such a great guy!
Cheers to you on your special day! So excited to be part of your awesome family soon!
Shyla Watson contributed to this article.
