Father’s Day happens this weekend. Whatever the day means to you, whether you are a full-time dad, only get to see your kids occasionally, or fall somewhere in-between, this day is for you.
Taking the time to celebrate, especially during times of uncertainty, is important to our well-being and mental health. This year probably looks very different than most. Planning a fun day takes some extra effort thanks to COVID-19. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be done.
So, this Father’s Day crack open a cold one, or pop the top on some fizzy water, grab your kids if you can, and take a moment to feel appreciated.
10 Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day During COVID-19
1. Backyard BBQ
Most states have begun the process of reopening. Even with various restrictions and social distancing guidelines, this is just in time for Father’s Day. If you live in an area that has not reopened restaurants, focus on what you can do from home. For instance, weather permitting, open up the grill and turn the day into a backyard BBQ.
Grab that rack of ribs, sausages, or veggie burgers. Grill up good food, enjoy the sunshine, and play some outdoor games with your kids. This Father’s Day isn’t about what you are doing but instead on how you are doing. Show your kids that they can still have fun, even when the world looks a little different than it used to.
2. Go to a Brewery
If you live in a state that once again offers dine-in eating at restaurants and bars, this could be the perfect day to hit up that brewery you’ve eyed for the past few months. Many are family friendly, and many offer outdoor seating options so you can practice safe social distancing.
3. Take a Hike
While going out for a walk has been one of the few quarantine-approved activities available these past few months, this Father’s Day, kick it up a notch and add an incline. Many parks and trails have opened up for hiking.
Walking up a mountain is an activity the whole family can enjoy together. It’s good exercise, allows you to keep your distance, and most cost little or nothing to explore. COVID-19 has forced a lot of unexpected changes, but there’s something to be said about climbing to the top of a mountain and soaking in that view with your kids.
4. DIY Backyard Project
For dads who love a good DIY project, use this day to break out the power tools and get started on that one you keep putting off. This is also another activity where you can have the time to yourself or involve your kids in the process.
If you’re building something with your kids, make sure that they are following proper safety procedures. While fun, satisfying, and productive, this also offers the chance to teach kids responsibility and safety.
5. Family Brunch
If you’re not feeling quite ready to go out to a restaurant, why not stay in and make a family brunch? Brunch is easy and fun to make at home. You might even be able to teach your kids some new life skills. What better way to spend Father’s Day than sleeping in and eating French toast? It’s a good way to spend time with loved ones, and maybe a beer-mosa.
6. Go Out on The Water
Father’s Day weekend this year also marks the official beginning of summer. What better way for an adventure-loving dad to spend the day than getting out on the water? You can fish or waterski, or maybe just kick back and relax. It’s a great way to spend time with the family and take advantage of the natural beauty of our state.
7. Hit the Golf Course
Golf courses opened up in most states, at least in some capacity. If you need some much-needed time to yourself, consider hitting the links for an afternoon. This provides a great, socially distanced activity. One that also allows you to walk around in the sun and nature for a few hours. Just a heads up, however, due to the limited volume in many places, good luck scoring a tee time.
8. Outdoor Movie
Come June, the weather outside turns warm and sunny. Which is great for outdoor movie watching. With built-in social distancing, drive-in theaters have actually seen a big boom during quarantine.
Even if you don’t have any in your area, many places offer screenings in parks and other outside spaces this time of year. If you have a projector and a wall, you can even create your own without much fuss. So, grab the kids, pop some popcorn, cuddle in a blanket, and enjoy a few of your favorite dad movies.
9. Family Game Night
Game nights provide a good time any time but have also seen a spike in popularity during quarantine. This offers a simple, low-key way to spend Father’s Day with the family. You can make it a big production or just a piece of a bigger plan. Maybe play a game early in the evening and hit a drive-in when the sun goes down?
Flaunt your competitive side with classics like Jenga, charades, and Monopoly with the whole family. To make it even easier, a single deck of cards offers thousands of different options. And because it’s Father’s Day, the kids have to let you win, right?
10. Pack a Picnic
Sticking with a common theme, with the weather turning nice, get the family outside with a Father’s Day picnic. Make it all about family. Grab a cooler, make some sandwiches, and head to your favorite park. There are plenty to choose from.
If you think a park still feels too risky, keep it closer to home. Spread out a blanket or two and set up some games in the backyard. You don’t always have to go someplace else to have a memorable, meaningful day with your kids.
However you celebrate Father’s Day this year, think of inventive ways to make the day enjoyable. Sure, this year looks a little different than years past, but quarantine hasn’t cancelled the happiness and joy of family time. Let us know how you plan to spend Father’s Day in the comments below.
Related Reading: 10 Greatest Movie Dads