Father’s Day is a special opportunity to celebrate the dads and father figures who support, inspire and love us unconditionally. While a card or gift is always appreciated, creating memories together can be even more meaningful. There are many fun things, unique things you can do to make this year’s Father’s Day a memorable one! Whether your dad loves adventure, relaxing at home or just spending quality time with the family, get inspired with these 10 ways to show dad how much you appreciate all the things he does for your family.
1. Make a Golf Course or Personalized Golf Gift
If Dad loves all things golf—from 18 holes to mini golf—creating a course in your backyard is an easy way to enjoy the game together! Rocks, bricks, or other items you have at home make great obstacles. Rained out or not feeling very creative? Designing a set of Father’s Day-themed golf balls will make him happy, whether he plays solo or with your kids.
2. Enjoy a Family Bike Tour
Whether you have your own in the garage or need to rent them for the occasion, an afternoon on a local bike trail or familiar route is a leisurely way to bond. Pack snacks or a picnic lunch for a midday break, and talk to your dad about some of his favorite (or funniest) dad moments with you, or with his own dad/grandfather.
3. Learn Something New Together
Helping your dad with a project around the house is a great way to spend quality time together. But picking an activity you both can learn together—whether it’s how to make ice cream for a sweet summer treat or building something out of wood—can teach you both a life skill that will lead to fond memories.
4. Watch Historic Sport Highlights
If your dad is a sports junkie, find some famous moments in sporting history on YouTube and watch them together as a family.Asking him about some of his favorite sport highlights can cultivate your child’s love for a specific sport, while having him share stories if he was at the game (or witnessed it live on TV) can bring back good memories. Scheduling a date to see an event IRL, if possible, is a great way to create more bonding time with dad.
5. Put on a Father’s Day Talent Show
Thirty-two percent of dads don’t want to receive gifts on Father’s Day. But staging a family variety show at home is a creative way to remind dad why he’s so cool. Creating a song and/or dance routine for your dad, playing a tune on your favorite instrument, or doing a short comedy spot of the best and worst dad jokes you ever heard!
6. Learn From Your Dad, the Pitmaster
Going out to a busy restaurant isn’t exactly relaxing. If dad loves to cook on the grill, plan a Father’s Day BBQ! Before the big afternoon, watch some videos of famous grill masters for recipe inspiration and to learn new techniques. Don’t forget to give your dad praise for his superior grill skills before you chow down!
7. Watch or Attend a Concert or Music Festival
For a special Father’s Day treat, choose a livestream or virtual concert of dad’s favorite band to watch at-home. Better yet, present him with tickets to an upcoming show to enjoy with your kids. Seeing music outdoors or at your favorite local venue is a great way to celebrate bands, as well as encourage your family’s budding music lovers.
8. Organize a Classic Game Tournament
To make game night extra special for Father’s Day, find out what games your dad played when he was younger, and play them together as a family.If your family is competitive, you could host an outdoor game tournament featuring summer favorites like catch, frisbee, relay races, tug of war, bocce and cornhole.
9. Go Camping or Hiking
Have an outdoorsy dad? Making a date for a camping or hiking trip—even if it’s on a local trail or wooded path—is a great way to bond in the great outdoors. It also offers tech-addicted kids a break from their devices, and the disconnect is an opportunity for stories and conversation. Plus, outdoor survival skills like building a campfire, cooking over it, and orienteering on the trail are useful even for families who spend the most time in an urban setting.
10. Make a Handmade Gift
There are so many DIY crafts and projects to choose from for Father’s Day. Making your dad something that will make him feel loved when he uses it is a great way to say Happy Father’s Day from the heart.
