Celebrating a Happy Father's Day

Looking for ways to avoid giving Dad another tie this year? Dads are special and unless they love collecting ties, there are better ways to make this a happy Father's Day. Instead of digging up old Father's Day gift ideas, make the holiday memorable by holding an event that says you know how special he really is.

Getting Started
For the best Father's Day experience, get the whole family together and start planning early. Make any necessary appointments ahead of time, especially if you are considering taking Dad on a trip or to a restaurant, and ask other family members to clear their calendars so they can devote as much time as possible to Dad. If someone can't make it or the travel distance is too great, check in with that person to make sure they will call or send a message that can be read during the Father's Day activities.

Consider what Dad likes to do best. What would he do if he had the choice to do anything with his day? Who would he spend it with, and what would he like to eat for meals and snacks? Make a list of Dad's hobbies, interests and favorite activities. This list will be helpful in planning activities for Father's Day and shows of appreciation for Dad that will fit him perfectly.

The Big Day
With a list of what Dad likes, scheduling Father's Day festivities is surprisingly easy as long as you meet a few guidelines. Just give everyone in the family a chance to spend time with Dad, and show Dad how much you appreciate him on this special day.

One-on-One Time. Often, especially in families with a few kids, alone time with Dad is rare. Each family member can spend alone time with Dad, whether it's taking him out to a batter's cage or joining him on the golf course. Let younger children pick their favorite activities with Dad so they won't get restless. For example, if the children in the family like to cook, they can make a favorite snack with Dad.

At the end of the day, take Dad out to his favorite restaurant or collaborate and make all of his favorite dishes at home. Father's Day is about Dad, but what makes him a good Dad is the relationship he has with his kids.

A Father's Day BBQ. June means that the weather will be warm enough for an outdoor gathering. Invite some of Dad's best friends over, and stock up on Dad's favorite foods. If Dad is a fan of grilling, he will have a blast. If not, prepare the food in advance or have someone else do the grilling so he can relax.

Consider decorating with a theme in mind. If Dad loves baseball, then wear jerseys featuring his favorite team, and choose plates, streamers and tablecloths in the team's colors. During the meal, play a mix CD of his favorite music, and set up a quiz game that tests everyone on how much they know about Dad, such as his favorite ice-cream flavor or the name of his first pet. Whoever wins gets a prize.

But, at the end of the BBQ, Dad should get the best prize. The whole family can assemble a Father's Day gift basket that reflects his interests. If he's a big reader, set him up with some new books and a book lamp. If he's a cook, a basket full of gourmet condiments might be his speed.

Tribute to Dad. Put together a Father's Day show of appreciation for Dad. This could take many forms, such as a photo collage or a special video done on the computer. You could have a collage or video professionally done, but you can also assign the task to the artist in the house. Theatrical families can write a song with lyrics about Dad, or they can throw a puppet show or comedy routine as part of a Father's Day variety show. During the big show, give Dad a special hat to wear as the guest of honor and present him with an award for Best Dad at the end.

Father's Day doesn't need to empty your wallet. Plan activities geared toward Dad's interests and hobbies. Be sure to include many ways of showing Dad appreciation, respect and love, and think about inviting friends and extended family to join in. Focus on heartfelt tributes, and Dad will be sure to remember the good feelings he had all year.