Although we should show our appreciation to our dads every day, Father’s Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the impact fathers have had on our lives. The first Father’s Day was celebrated in Washington state on June 19, 1910. A woman by the name of Sonora Smart Dodd came up with the idea of honoring and celebrating her father, who was a widower raising Sonora and her six siblings.
Sonora worked hard to gain support for this new tradition, but it was not until decades later that Father’s Day would be recognized as a national holiday. In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a presidential proclamation designating the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day.
This year Father’s Day falls on Sunday, June 19th. Even if you’ve already bought or made a card and gift, spending some quality time with your dad, stepdad, grandfather or special father figure in your life is priceless. Here are a few ideas that both adults and kids can enjoy.
Play Backyard Games
Tap into your dad’s competitive side by spending time in your backyard with games like badminton, cornhole or horseshoes. Backyard games are also a great way to burn calories if you’ll be hosting a big Father’s Day cookout.
Trace Your Family’s Roots
Even if you think you know everything about your dad, there’s so much more to his story! Whether it’s looking through old photo albums or other memorabilia, ask your dad to trace your family tree, to get a deeper look at your family’s history.
Book a Father’s Day Lunch or Dinner
If you don’t feel like cooking, make reservations at a fun restaurant in town. Casey’s Public House in Newtown Square is a great place to share some delicious wings or order up some burgers. For breakfast or dessert, Jacquette’s Bakery always has a wide variety of scrumptious donuts or other desserts to satisfy a sweet tooth.
Play a Round of Golf
If your dad is a golfer, celebrate the day by hitting the links. Take a trip over to Paxon Hollow Country Club. After a round of golf there, you can even take dad to Anthony’s at Paxon Restaurant and Patio Deck for a delicious Italian meal and views that overlook the greens, fairways and fountains on the 18th hole.
Take a Hike at a Local Trail
If you and your dad want to connect with nature, take dad on a hike at one of Delaware County’s nature trails. Whether you’re experienced hikers or just casual walkers, there are many local places to explore, walk, bike or hike. Some must-see trails include Goshen Rd Trail, Okehocking Preserve, Ridley Creek State Park and Haverford Reserve. For more ideas visit www.VisitDelcoPa.com/trails.
No matter how you choose to spend the day with your dad, stepdad, adopted father or other special father figure, shower him with an abundance of attention and praise, and don’t forget to tell him how much he means in your life.