Fathers day is celebrated on the 3rd Sunday of June. This year Fathers Day will be celebrated on June 18th, 2023. A thought-provoking article published by Oprah Daily a few years back begs why Fathers Day seems to lag behind its counterpart, Mothers Day, in terms of celebration and recognition. At More4Kids, we believe that dads play an equally significant role in a child’s life and deserve to be celebrated with the same enthusiasm as mothers.

That’s why we have compiled a list of 25 enjoyable and engaging activities to honor dads on their special day. These ideas are designed to strengthen the bond between fathers and their children while creating lasting memories. Let’s make Fathers Day an occasion filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt tributes to all the fantastic dads.

How to Celebrate Fathers Day With Fun and Style

Whether you’re a mom looking to plan something extraordinary for the father of your kids, kids eager to create an unforgettable experience for your dad, or a single father seeking to make lasting memories with your children, More4Kids has a treasure trove of fantastic ideas for you to consider this Father’s Day. From heartfelt gestures to exciting adventures, we’ve curated a list of 25 ways to celebrate Fathers Day with fun and style. Let’s explore these entertaining activities that will make this Fathers Day a remarkable occasion for every dad and their beloved children.

1. Backyard camping adventure

Set up a camping experience right in your own backyard! Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows over a fire pit, and tell stories under the stars. Kids five and up can actively participate in setting up the tent and enjoy the excitement of sleeping outdoors. Dad will love bonding with his children while experiencing the joys of camping without leaving home.

2. Indoor camping adventure

If your kids are outdoors-allergy prone, it’s a rainy day, or they just aren’t ready to camp in the big backyard, set up a camping experience at home. My husband and I did this with my now seven-year-old stepdaughter last year. We pitched a tent in our living room, slept on air mattresses and in sleeping bags, made s’mores, and watched movies in lawn chairs, all from the comfort of our home. It was a great experience, and I loved watching them create this memory together (even if it wasn’t Fathers Day).

3. Camping and stargazing

Take our camping idea and give it a big boost by planning a camping trip for Fathers Day and venturing to a location with clear skies for stargazing. Plan in advance and book campsites at one of our nation’s national or state parks. Many campsites through KOA and our park services offer cabins if you don’t feel like pitching a tent. Set up a campsite, roast marshmallows, and spend the evening identifying constellations. Dad will appreciate the peacefulness of nature and the chance to share his knowledge of the night sky with his kids, making this a truly magical Father’s Day experience.

4. DIY personalized grilling apron

Is Dad the grill master in your family? If so, even the youngest kids will love getting crafty and creating a personalized grilling apron for Dad. Decorate a plain apron with fabric paints, markers, or iron-on patches, adding heart-felt or funny messages or drawings. Older kids will have the fine motor skills needed to handle the artistic aspects of this project. Dad will appreciate the thoughtful gesture and proudly wear his one-of-a-kind apron while grilling, showcasing the love and effort his children put into making it.

5. Homemade pizza night

Gather the family in the kitchen for a fun and interactive homemade pizza night. Prepare the dough, lay out various toppings, and let everyone create their own personalized pizzas. This activity suits kids of all ages, as they can participate differently depending on their abilities. Dad will enjoy the quality time spent together while relishing in the delicious results of their collective culinary efforts. And who cares if you’re not grilling? Have Dad don his new grilling apron and snap some selfies of your evening.

6. Fathers Day scavenger hunt

Organize a Fathers Day scavenger hunt around the house or in a nearby park. Create clues and hide small surprises or treats along the way. This activity is perfect for younger kids who enjoy the thrill of searching and discovering hidden treasures. Dad will be thrilled to see his children’s excitement and watch as they work together to solve the clues, creating a memorable summertime adventure for the entire family.

7. Family movie marathon

An excellent activity for kids of all ages, set up a cozy movie night at home with a lineup of Dad’s favorite films. Pop some popcorn, snuggle up with blankets, and enjoy a movie marathon together as a family. Whether it’s classic comedies or action-packed adventures like the Avengers or Transformers series, this activity suits kids of all ages. It provides a relaxing and entertaining way to celebrate Father’s Day. Dad will cherish the shared movie-watching experience and the opportunity to introduce his favorite movies to his children.

8. Outdoor movie night

Take movie night up a notch by setting up an outdoor movie night under the stars for Fathers Day. Create a cozy seating area in your backyard, hang a large white sheet as a makeshift screen, and project Dad’s favorite films. Don’t forget the popcorn and blankets! Dad will appreciate the unique and relaxing movie experience while spending quality time with his family.

9. Take in a ball game

A friend of mine, Kent, father of two boys that participated in the Boy Scouts with my son, mentioned to me that since Father’s Day is situated in the midst of baseball season, it presents a prime opportunity to gather the kids and head to a major league or minor league game. Attending a ballgame offers a unique experience that combines the thrill of sports, the ambiance of the stadium, and the joy of family bonding. It’s a chance for families to immerse themselves in the excitement of the sport, learn together, and create lasting memories while cheering for their favorite team. Sharing the love for baseball on Fathers Day strengthens the family connection through conversation, shared experiences, and the thrill of the game.

10. Tee time bonding

Another favorite Father’s Day idea from Kent is spending time on the golf course with his kids. Golfing provides an excellent opportunity for outdoor enjoyment, friendly competition, and lasting memories. Whether playing a full-size course or mini-golf, depending on their ages, golfing together allows Dad to share his passion for the sport while bonding with his children. Conversations flow naturally as they navigate the fairways, creating a relaxed environment for sharing stories and imparting valuable life lessons. Golfing on Fathers Day strengthens the family bond through challenges, laughter, and a little friendly rivalry while enjoying the serene surroundings and creating cherished memories.

11. Outdoor adventure day

Plan an action-packed outdoor adventure day for Fathers Day. Choose activities like hiking, rock climbing, zip-lining, or kayaking that cater to your family’s interests and age-appropriate abilities. Dad will love the thrill of exploring the great outdoors with his loved ones, creating unforgettable memories of adrenaline-fueled fun.

12. Go-kart racing

Feed Dad’s need for speed by organizing a day of go-kart racing. Find a local go-kart track and challenge each other to exhilarating races. Kids of various ages can participate with age-appropriate go-kart options available. Dad will relish the opportunity to showcase his driving skills and enjoy the friendly competition with his children.

13. Adventure park visit

Ig go-karting feels like too much of an adrenaline rush but you still want some adventure for Dad, pay a visit to your nearest outdoor adventure park. Challenge yourselves with rope courses, ziplines, climbing walls, and other thrilling activities. Dad will love the opportunity to tackle daring challenges alongside his children, fostering a sense of teamwork and accomplishment.

14. Paintball battle

Dads love the thrill of a good competition. Organize a thrilling paintball battle for Father’s Day. Find a local paintball facility and engage in an exciting day of strategic combat. Split into teams and let the friendly rivalry begin. Dad will revel in the excitement of the game and enjoy the camaraderie built during the paintball battle.

15. Fishing expedition

If Dad loves to tell fish tales, then why not plan a fishing expedition for Fathers Day? Whether it’s a day at a nearby lake, a deep-sea fishing charter, or simply fishing from a local pier, this activity allows Dad to pass down his fishing expertise and spend tranquil moments with his kids. Enjoy the serenity of nature while bonding over shared fishing experiences.

16. Water sports go wild

Spend Father’s Day engaging in water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing. Find a local beach, lake, or river where you can enjoy these activities together. Dad will relish the water adventures while creating lasting memories of fun and laughter with his family. If you need to rent equipment, be sure to plan ahead because this idea might be shared by others. And, be sure to check local laws and ordinances for any age restrictions.

17. Build a fort on Father’s Day

If you’re the dad of a little one, some of those big adventures might be too much. So, take your Fathers Day ideas down to their level to create some special memories. Set up a fort-building session with your toddler. Use blankets, pillows, and furniture to create a cozy hideaway. Encourage your child’s imagination by pretending to be adventurers, pirates, or even superheroes inside the fort. Dad can join in the fun, making it an interactive and imaginative experience for both of you.

18. Mess-free painting

Engage in mess-free painting activities with your toddler. Use washable markers, dot markers, or paintbrushes and water on a chalkboard or an easel. Create simple designs or encourage your child to explore their creativity freely. Dad can actively participate by painting alongside his toddler, making it a collaborative and enjoyable experience.

19. Create hand-print or footprint crafts

Who says Thanksgiving is the only time to create handprint art (to make turkeys)? Little kids love making art projects, and art projects are a great way to change up their daily routine , especially on Fathers Day. Help your toddler create handprint or footprint crafts as a special keepsake for Fathers Day. Use non-toxic paint or ink pads to capture their tiny handprints or footprints on paper or fabric. Dad can assist in guiding their hands or feet and cherish the resulting artwork as a memento of this precious stage in their child’s life.

20. Story time and puppet show

Spend some restful quality time with your toddler by reading your favorite books together. Enhance the experience by creating simple puppets using paper bags or socks. Dad can take turns narrating the story while engaging the puppets in a lively and interactive puppet show. This activity encourages language development, creativity, and shared laughter between dad and his little one. And, this is a great activity for some downtime after a fun and active Fathers Day.

21. Plan a personalized brewery or winery tour

Fathers Day doesn’t end when your children have grown and left the nest. These next ideas are great for adult kids who want to do something special for their Dad on his special day. My first recommendation is to organize a personalized brewery or winery tour for your dad on Fathers Day. Research local breweries or wineries known for their craft beverages and arrange a tour and tasting experience. Dad will appreciate the opportunity to explore his favorite libations and spend quality time with his adult children in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

22. Take your foodie dad to dinner and foot the bill

This next idea came from my son who will be heading into his senior year of college this fall. Treat your foodie dad to a special dinner at his favorite restaurant and foot the bill. Research and book a reservation at a restaurant known for its cuisine that matches your dad’s tastes. Make the evening even more memorable by arranging for a personalized menu or surprising him with a chef’s tasting menu. Dad will be delighted to indulge in a delicious meal while feeling appreciated by his adult children.

23. Grill or Cook up some savory meals together

One idea to celebrate Fathers Day is to take Dad to a cooking class. Many modern dads love spending time grilling together, behind a cookbook or browsing Pinterest boards to discover new recipes and show off their cooking talents. By enrolling in a cooking class together, you not only provide an opportunity for Dad to further develop his culinary skills but also create a fun and interactive experience for bonding with him. Whether it’s a class focused on a specific cuisine, baking techniques, or mastering a particular dish, Dad will enjoy the chance to learn alongside his adult children, share his passion for cooking, and create delicious memories in the kitchen.

24. Create a memory jar and gift it to dad, real-time

Compile a memory jar filled with handwritten notes, photographs, and mementos that remind your dad of special moments you’ve shared together. Each family member can contribute their own memories and expressions of love. Present the memory jar to your dad on Fathers Day, and he will cherish this heartfelt gift filled with nostalgic moments and the bond you share. Want to take it up a notch? Plan one of these other activities, snap some selfies along the way, and add those pics, ticket stubs, or other remnants from this year’s Father’s Day to the jar. Think of it as the gift that keeps on giving.

25. Make it a milestone to remember

Who says anniversaries are only for dating, weddings, etc? The way I see it, moms and dads have milestones too. So if this is a milestone Fathers Day for Dad, make it a milestone to remember by recognizing and celebrating all those years your dad has been Dad. Here are a few ideas.

• Family photo shoot and memory book – For that five-year dad milestone, arrange a professional family photo shoot to commemorate Dad’s 5th year of fatherhood. Capture precious moments with your adult siblings and the grandkids, creating lasting memories. Compile the photos into a beautifully designed memory book, including handwritten notes from each family member, sharing heartfelt messages and expressing gratitude for the impact Dad has had on their lives.

• Surprise weekend getaway – Though this might require some help from mom or other important adults in your life, surprise Dad with a weekend getaway to celebrate his 10th year of being a father. Choose a destination he has always wanted to visit or revisit a place that holds special meaning for your family. Plan activities and experiences that cater to his interests, such as visiting landmarks, trying local cuisine, or engaging in his favorite hobbies. This extended getaway allows for relaxation, exploration, and creating new memories together.
• Generational family vacation – Plan a generational family vacation to celebrate Dad’s remarkable 25 years as a father. Choose a destination that holds significance for your family or fulfill his long-standing travel dreams. Include not only your immediate family but also grandparents, siblings, and other extended family members. This grand vacation allows for multi-generational bonding, creating unforgettable memories and honoring Dad’s enduring commitment to fatherhood.

Fathers Day celebrations for every stage: Ideas for Dad with kids of all ages

No matter what stage of fatherhood a dad finds himself in, Fathers Day is a special occasion to honor and appreciate the love, dedication, and guidance he provides. At More4Kids, we believe that every dad deserves to be celebrated, whether he’s a new father with a toddler, a seasoned dad with adult children, or a proud grandfather. We have compiled a diverse list of 25 ways to celebrate Fathers Day, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From simple and heartfelt activities to adventurous and elaborate experiences, our ideas cater to the unique interests and dynamics of each family.

On this Father’s Day, let’s take the time to show our gratitude and make lasting memories with the special dads, step-dads, uncles, grandfathers, and father figures in our lives. From all of us at More4Kids, we extend warm wishes and heartfelt appreciation to all dads out there. Thank you for being you and making a positive difference in the lives of your children. Happy Father’s Day!

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