How to surprise Dad this Father’s Day

Each year we devote the third Sunday in June to celebrating that very special man in our lives: Dad.  While sporting goods, electronics or tools are go-to Father’s Day gifts, many dads say they prefer something made with love, just for them. This year, give Dad what he really wants with one of these personalized gifts or experiences, made just for him.

[Photo Credit: iStock.com/JenkoAtaman]

Pull together a menu of Dad’s favourite dishes and serve him in style. That could mean a crisp tablecloth and linen napkins, or a casual picnic. Filet mignon or pizza. You know your Dad’s taste better than anyone, so treat him to a feast he’ll love! And don’t forget the decadent dessert.

There’s nothing a hard-working Dad appreciates more than a chance to unplug and relax. Give him an outing in nature for the best de-stressing results. If he’s not a seasoned outdoorsman, take him for a casual hike at a local park or conservation area.  Plan ahead and reserve a kayak or canoe and spend an afternoon of quality time paddling and chatting. Maybe your father’s an avid fisherman, or loves to camp. Join Dad in an activity he already loves, or try something new together. You’ll make a wonderful memory, and maybe even start a new Father’s Day tradition.

Scroll through your photo album and save a few faves to be printed. Enlarge and frame a single photo or collage of your most cherished times with Dad. Go one step further and design and create your own photo book to preserve your best memories of time spent with your father.

Give Dad a dose of nostalgia with an evening at a drive-in movie. Scout around for a theatre near you (they’re back and more popular than ever!) playing Dad-friendly flicks and shop ahead for his favourite snacks and beverages. The night of the film you both get to let loose and laugh/scream/cry as hard as you like inside the bubble of your vehicle, without disturbing other movie-goers.

Dad deserves a break today, right? Go ahead and grab the lawn mower, take out the garbage, clean the barbecue, tidy the garage, or take over any other household responsibility you know Dad would be thrilled to get out of doing. Today’s his day to put his feet up and chill.

A handmade greeting card is a thoughtful and lasting way to share things you might feel a little awkward saying out loud. And those heartfelt thoughts (maybe even a Father’s Day poem?) are preserved on paper for many years to come, giving Dad a nice memento to look back at. Several surveys have asked Dads all over North America about their top picks for Father’s Day gifts and DIY cards always rank high. So, skip the tie and socks this year, and write a special message to Dad he won’t forget.