With Father’s Day fast approaching, I’m sure some of us are struggling to come up with plans to celebrate Dad. Sure, you could let Dad go off and golf, or work on his car, or hang out with his friends. But isn’t the point of Father’s Day to spend time together as a family and honor the great fathers that are in our lives? With all that being said, I’ve compiled a list of things to do that may make his day extra special.
Visit the Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic.
The competition runs from June 15th to the 17th, and the sculptures are illuminated afterwards through June 28th to view them at night as well. The sculptures are amazing; the detail and work that the competitors put into their work is incredible! And while you’re at the beach, let Dad hit the arcade, and grab some fried dough. Don’t forgot the sunblock! Check out the gallery from last year, and learn more about this year’s event here.
Take a ride to Dover to visit the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire.
Dads and grandfathers get free admission, and kids can make special picture frames and crowns for Dad as part of their admission. Children one year and over cost $10, adults $10, and senior citizens (65+) $9. While in Dover, be sure to check out Just The Thing, which features funky and vintage furniture and home decor. My husband loves visiting Just The Thing, we even bought our nursery furniture there! Grab a few tacos at Dos Amigos, maybe a beer at 7th Settlement Brewery, and walk around the downtown area. Find more information on their website.
Spend the day wandering around downtown Portsmouth.
Start your day off with a visit to Profile Coffee Bar, their cold brew is fantastic! Once you and Dad are fully caffeinated, take the kids out shopping in all the great stores downtown has to offer. Maybe let Dad pick out a small gift for himself? My husband always enjoys visiting Bull Moose and picking out a new record. Once everyone has worked up an appetite, grab a sandwich at Bennett’s Sandwich Shop, and head to Prescott Park for a picnic. Finish the day up at Annabelle’s Natural Ice Cream; I’m sure both Dad and kids will approve!
If you’re willing to travel a bit, head over to Merrimack for the Rotary Rock’n Ribfest.
Anheuser-Busch will be hosting its annual Rotary Rock’n Ribfest, and it’s so fun! My husband and our friends have been multiple times, and its always a great time. Tickets are $10 at the gate, or $7 in advance. Your ticket pays for your entry into the event, and you are able to attend any performances and live bands that play. There are rides and activities for children, which costs $10 and covers all-day access.
Be prepared to pay for beer and food. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect: pizza, hot dogs, blooming onions, apple crisp, ice cream, cupcakes, fried dough, french fries, and gourmet baked potatoes. Oh, and did I forget to mention there’s a bunch of BBQ ‘ribbers’ from all over the US, cooking up fresh smoked meats! Make sure to bring your appetite! There’s lots of grass for picnics or football playing, beer tents, and plenty of portable toilets. Bring lots of sunblock, sunglasses, and blankets to sit on. Click here for more information.
Last but not least, if Dad’s not feeling a big day out, spend the day at home and make the day all about him!
Sometimes we forget Dads need love too, so let’s make him feel extra special this Father’s Day. Let the kids help make his favorite breakfast in bed. Build a fort or sea of pillows in the living room, and have a movie marathon. Order pizza, or grill up a few burgers, and play some board games. Do whatever makes Dad and the kids happy.
So that’s my round up of a few fun things to do to celebrate Dad this year. Let’s show the special guys in our lives a day they’ll never forget! The kids will enjoy showering Dad with attention, and you can enjoy the smiles on everyone faces knowing you planned a great day!
