For Father’s Day—Give Experiences, Not Things

Instead of the generic tie or gadget, give Dad the gift of a new cherished memory.

Give dad the memories of having fun and exploring with those who matter to him. everst/Shutterstock

It’s time to celebrate Dad. When we think about ways to honor the dads in our lives, many of us fall back on typical gifts like a tie, a mug, or a gadget. But life is about experiences, not things. This Father’s Day, instead of more of the same, why not give Dad an experience he’ll cherish forever. Here are some experience-oriented ideas to celebrate and show appreciation for your number one dad.

Dad’s Favorite Activity

What’s Dad into? Fishing? Golfing? Biking? Surfing? Whatever Dad loves, organize a family outing to do just that.

Be sure to handle all of those details that would typically fall on him. If he usually packs the car, have the kids do it. If he is usually the driver or navigator, take that off his plate. If he’s the one that makes sure the doors are locked before you leave, that the tires are full in the bikes, that the reservations have been confirmed, or whatever Dad usually handles, give him a free pass to sit back and enjoy a day doing what he loves with his family with all the details handled.

Dad’s Favorite Event

Is Dad into sports, music, comedy, or theater? Track down tickets to an upcoming event he’ll be thrilled to attend. The jersey he wears regularly, a comedian he’s been quoting, or the most played songs on his playlist can all be clues as to what he may truly enjoy experiencing. Make the gift extra special by arranging transportation, inviting friends, or adding dinner reservations to the evening.

Invite Dad to a Backyard Campout

As a fun activity for this time of year, conspire with the kids to create a backyard campsite, complete with pitched tent, dinner on the barbecue, and a campfire.