Father's Day is more than just a date on the calendar. It's a chance to make the father figure in your household feel special and appreciated. Many dads do a lot of work for the family and household, so doing something special in honor of Father's Day is a great way to say "Thank you!"
It took a while for Father's Day to become a recognized holiday. The first event dedicated to honoring dads happened in a West Virginia church in 1908. A year later, the state of Washington officially recognized it as a holiday. President Wilson celebrated it in 1916, and President Calvin Coolidge encouraged states to follow suit. However, it wasn't until 1972 that Father's Day became a nationwide holiday in the United States!
For this upcoming Father's Day, consider planning a day full of Dad's favorite things - from his favorite meals to his favorite hobbies. He will definitely appreciate you tailoring the day to his interests, creating a jam-packed day of activities that will help everyone bond and create lasting memories.
Start the Day Right: Cooking Breakfast for Dad
We all know breakfast is the most important meal of the day. What better way to show Dad some extra love than by cooking his favorite breakfast foods together as a family?
Plan a menu with all of Dad's favorites - whether it's fresh bagels, bacon and eggs, or French toast. A thoughtful, homemade meal is bound to put a big smile on Dad's face and kick the day off on a high note. Plus, we bet the food will taste even better if the whole family is matching in Little Sleepies Breakfast Buddies pajamas.
Once those bellies are full, it's time for a day full of activities that Dad will find both fun and relaxing. Need some ideas? We've got you covered!
Here's the inspiration you need to create a special day that Dad will love and remember for years to come.
If He Loves the Outdoors...
Some dads simply love being outside. If this sounds like the dad in your life, the options are almost limitless! Gear up and head to a nearby trail for a hike. Or pack up a picnic and head to your favorite local park. If camping is something Dad enjoys, make a whole weekend out of it and take a family camping trip!
You can also stay closer to home and utilize your backyard. Set up some games, fire up the grill, and enjoy a beautiful day outside. If possible, disconnect from technology. Leave your phone inside, put it on airplane mode, and allow yourself to truly connect with both your family and nature.
If He Loves Cooking...
Have a foodie Dad on your hands? There are so many ways to incorporate food into your Father's Day celebration. Join a local food tour to explore some restaurants around town. Take that cooking class your foodie Dad has always thought about.
For some friendly competition, plan a family cook-off to see who makes the best chili or bakes the tastiest cake. This is a surefire way for the whole family to bond, and even the youngest kiddos can get involved by gathering ingredients, mixing things, and being the ultimate taste-testers.
If He Loves Sports...
We all know the dad who loves sports. For this dad, get tickets to a baseball or basketball game where he will love cheering for his favorite team. Or have a friendly family game of catch, Frisbee, or kickball in the backyard.
Once your arms get tired, head back inside for a sports-themed movie marathon. Bonus points if the movies involve a good Dad storyline (think classics like 'Little Giants' or 'Field of Dreams')!
If He Loves Art...
If art is a passion for the dad in your life, spend some time this Father's Day getting creative as a family. Set up an at-home art studio with watercolors, colored pencils, or even just crayons. Visit a local art exhibit and talk about the art you see. If there's a sculpture park nearby, take the time to check it out! This is sure to be a great bonding opportunity for everyone.
If He Loves Adventure...
For those adrenaline enthusiasts, explore some exciting new activities, even if it means checking out an unfamiliar city. Experiencing something new together as a family will create lasting memories.
For something more extreme, hit the water and go kayaking, paddle boarding, or surfing! Take the plunge and go zip-lining! Visit an indoor rock climbing gym and race to the top! Everyone will get a thrill out of the activity, and Dad will love the chance to tap into his adventurous side.
End the Day with Cozy Reading Under a Cloud Blanket
After such a fun-filled day, get some relaxation and downtime as a family before bedtime. Put on those comfortable matching Little Sleepies PJs, grab your cozy Oversized Cloud Blanket, and snuggle up together while reading a family favorite book (bonus points if the book involves a dad storyline - You Made Me a Dad and Just Me and My Dad are great choices).
Making the most of this upcoming Father's Day by planning activities tailored to Dad's hobbies and interests is a guaranteed way to fill the day with joy, memories, and lots of laughs. Dad will recognize the thought you put into planning, and the fact that you went above and beyond will make him feel extra appreciated.
Just don't wait until the last minute to start thinking about what you're going to do! Planning in advance will help create a memorable, stress-free, and smooth weekend. A well-planned and special day for Father's Day is sure to create memories that Dad and your family can cherish for years to come!
