Fathers play a significant role in their kids' lives. They're essential role models, influence children's self-esteem and school performance, and make great coaches and fun-loving playmates. Once kids have grown and aged, fathers make great friends, confidants, and are there to lend a hand.
Father’s Day is just around the corner, so don’t be caught scrambling for the perfect way to show you care. Try some of these ideas to show your dad just how important he is to you.
Video Surprise – Make a "World's Best Dad" video he'll treasure for years to come. Put on your brainstorming cap for your own ideas, or try some of these ideas for your video. Share special memories of your dad, sing to him, read him a poem, or do skits. Get the whole family involved and conduct interviews with each other with Dad as the main topic. Don't forget your props such as a banner or collection of his prized possessions, including sports trophies or equipment, to add a personal touch. Most importantly, be sure to let him know just how much he means to you.
King for the Day – It isn't every day your dad gets waited on hand and foot. So offer to be his loyal servant for the day. Bring him coffee and toast in bed; fetch his newspaper and a copy of Potomac Lifestyle Magazine; lay out his clothes, bath towel, and mat; be host or hostess and serve him beverages and snacks; clean up after him and anything else to give him the royal treatment.
Memories of Dad – Buy a scrapbook, and create a record of memories about you and your dad. Include photos of special outings, events, and holidays you've had together. Also include other memorabilia such as concert or sporting event ticket stubs, postcards, and brochures. Next to each photo or item, describe your memories of those special times with him.
A Man to Remember – Get your creative juices flowing, and write a poem for your dad. You don't need to be a poet to come up with a few thoughtful words to express how much he means to you. Describe the impact he's had on your life, how he's helped shape the person you are today, and what he means to you. Then print it on stationery, matte, and frame it.
Musical Moment– Take your father to see his favorite band or performing artist at the AMP, head to a jazz or blues festival, or pack up some lawn chairs, and enjoy a local concert-in-the-park.
World’s Greatest – Let your dad know he's valued 365 days a year! Give him a unique Father's Day find at the Potomac French Market or Sprinkles Ice Cream Shop.
Sports Buff’s Surprise – Take your dad for a sporting good time. Play a game of golf at Falls Road, pickleball at the Potomac Community Center, or basketball, go fishing, or walk the Billy Goat Trail. If being a spectator is more his thing, buy tickets to his favorite sporting events such as a baseball game at the Washington Nationals, or soccer game, a boxing match, or the Sully Antique Car Show in Chantilly VA.
Weekend Getaway – Get in touch with nature and each other on a camping trip for two. Either rough it in a tent or rent a mini-cabin at a state park. Spend your weekend hiking, sightseeing, fishing, boating, playing cards, and taking it easy together at Little Bennett Campground.
Father’s Day Feast - As the old adage goes, the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. So treat Dad to a mouth-watering dish at Mission Barbeque in Rockville. Fix him his favorite: steak, ribs, chicken, burgers, or chops for starters. Don't forget the grilled potatoes or squash, garlic bread or rolls, fresh green beans or asparagus, sweet corn, potato salad, and last but not least, his favorite dessert.
Treat Him Like a King – What better way to show your appreciation for all his hard work than to indulge him? Give your father a gift certificate for a professional massage, which will be sure to please.
Take a Stroll – Enjoy a peaceful walk in the park or the country together. Better yet, gather your bikes or rollerblades, hit a scenic bike path of the Billy Goat Trails, and enjoy the fresh summer air.
Certificates of Appreciation – Show Dad you appreciate his hard work by returning the favor. Make coupons that say: "In appreciation for all that you do, Dad. Redeem this certificate for a hassle-free car wash by me!" Other favors include sweeping out the garage, mowing the lawn, or any other task he usually handles.
It doesn't matter who my father was; it matters who I remember he was. -- Anne Sexton
John Carlson- Being a Dad is the best thing I've ever done and the kids are more 4 greatest accomplishments.
Greg & Don Kahn- We enjoy spending quality time with each other and connecting.
Moussa Moaadel- I love it when the kids cook a special meal for me- especially my favorite, Bouillabaisse soup.
Rory Coakley- There's nothing better than cooking pasta as a family.
Brian Fitzgerald- I’ve helped coach Little League for the last several years and there is nothing that makes my heart happier than playing baseball with my boys.
David Trone - What is your favorite Father’s Day activity? "Going out for ice cream. Simple. Classic. Can’t beat it."