Mother’s Day is tough. Feeling torn between time away and spending time with the kids, not wanting to have to overexplain what you want, not really wanting anything but not being asked any questions.
Father’s Day? It might be even worse. I usually just have no idea what my husband wants. He himself doesn’t know! Me? I had a Mother’s Day spreadsheet sorted by priority. Him? Won’t ask for a thing but still definitely has expectations.
So like any good Millennial who grew up using magazine quizzes as her only vessel for self-actualization, I’ve made you a quiz to determine
a) what kind of dad you’ve got on your hands and
b) how to plan Father’s Day to suit him the best.
Now that you’ve typed the dad in question in by far the most scientific way possible, you know how to celebrate him in the way that will make him feel the most loved and fulfilled.
Choose Your Own Father’s Day Adventure
🏕️ Adventure Dad
Activities: The day should go somewhere… I mean this literally. A hike with a payoff (Waterfall? Summit? Burger joint?), a round of disc golf, a morning fishing, or even just a trip to the go-kart track if the kids are invited.
We plan it, we pack it, we hand him the plan and the supplies.
Gifts: This one’s pretty easy — find an upgrade to some equipment that he’s been putting off. A new hydration pack, high-quality headlamp, great hiking shoes, a national parks pass, a top-notch hammock?
We’re giving him the gift of future adventure here, too, and he’ll remember this Father’s Day every time he whips this back out.
The biking accessory I’m getting my cycling enthusiast hubby!
A pair of sunnies from my favorite polarized sunglasses brand
Food: Man, he’s an easy one, isn’t he? Grilling out is perfect for Adventure Dads, because it’s part of the adventure. Get him outside with cold brews, provide all the ingredients, plan, and prep.
The Menu
Chimichurri Flank Steak, grilled, naturally
Sweet and Savory S’mores Board, for one last adventure of the day!
🛋️ Recharge Dad
Activities: Yeah, none. The gift? The gift is space. No plans, no questions, no refereeing the kids who immediately wake up and choose war.
