Father’s Day advertisements have long bothered me. I feel bad for men who reap the efforts of this pathetic, uber-stereotyped marketing. Men are painted to have just a few interests, along the lines of golf, grilling, sports, tools, BBQ, beer and “man caves.”
Give me a break. This isn’t a Tim Allen show.
Most men I know – even those who aren’t fathers – have more depth than this. They have interest in music, good food, travel, reading, politics, art.
Sometimes around this time of year, I’ll find a story online that appears to be more relevant, a “cool dad’s gift guide” (or so it will be titled) – and it turns out to be all hipster-esque. My dad does not want an ironic t-shirt or Buddy Holly glasses. OK?
My father does not want for much, in fact. He’s not a “stuff” guy, and his interests are concentrated in World War II books and movies, Netflix, Puma sneakers, golf (okay, so you got me there, but he doesn’t give a shit about personalized golf balls or quirky tees) and dark rum.
Please let me confirm for you that I have given him any and all of these related gifts: Netflix subscription, passes to the Hershey Links (once he used it, once he didn’t – argh), sneakers, WWII books (which he already read – ugh) and dark rum (always a hit!).
I used to take him out – for beer dinners or tastings. But he really just wants face-to-face time and some good coffee. He likes Starbucks and Cornerstone.
This Father’s Day, I implore you to look beyond the easy-to-buy tie, grilling apron or personalized pint glasses. Think about what your dad enjoys – it may just be time with you. And it doesn’t have to be expensive.
Below I have just a few ideas on ways you can treat your dad this weekend (You know you hadn’t planned any further than this anyway. Consider it a slight head start.
- If Dad likes trying new beer (my dad does, but some he thinks are just weird), take him to Al’s and buy him a ‘Mix a Six’ for like $13 and let him pick out whatever he wants. Or, surprise him so he doesn’t have to leave the house.
- While on beer, tours of Troegs and ABC are always an option. Sampler platters afterwards are a cheap way to say “I love you in beer.”
- Road trip it to the Red Rabbit for bunny burgers and shakes. I actually think my dad would love this, but he’d never drive that far for a meal.
- Golf lessons at Bumble Bee followed by 3B’s Ice Cream – this was my husband’s birthday gift this year.
- If you or dad is out of town, buy tickets for a future baseball game or plan a camping trip. Think first: Is this something my dad is into, or am I the one into it?
- What’s dad’s favorite meal? Make it for him or take him out. Bring his favorite wine, beer or booze, too. Plus, you can (almost) never go wrong with a PA Wine & Spirits gift card.
- Mow his yard/fix his car – basically, do something that makes his life easier.
- Dads are more sentimental than they lead on. A small photo album or collage with pictures of your family will never be requested, but will be much appreciated.
- My dad might not be into the junky, promotional tchotckes, but he loves a new golf shirt and Puma socks.
- If dad is a reader, perhaps a trip to Midtown Scholar Bookstore or Olde Towne Books and Brew fits the bill. Buy him a coffee (or tea – or milkshake) and treat him to a new (to him) book.
Note: These weren’t selected with Father’s Day specials in mind, and there are plenty of those to go around. That said, please check operating hours – some of the above listed venues may not have Sunday hours. Your dad doesn’t care – Saturday is fine, too.
