With everything that’s happened over the last few months, it’s important to seize opportunities to celebrate the people we care about.
Father’s Day falls on June 21, and even though states are beginning to reopen after COVID-19 closures, this year’s observance will likely feel different than in years past.
You might not be able to snag a reservation at Dad’s preferred restaurant. Attending a baseball game together could be out of the question. And if you live apart, an in-person visit may not be possible.
Luckily, we’ve adapted and found ways to stay connected and entertained while maintaining social distance. Here are seven enjoyable yet budget-friendly ideas to mark Father’s Day this year.
1. Host a Backyard Cookout
Nothing says Father’s Day like grilled food. Light up the barbecue and take the chance to step out of the kitchen and breathe some fresh air.
If you’re inviting people who aren’t in your household, an outdoor cookout generally carries less risk of spreading coronavirus than an indoor gathering. Reducing shared dishes by asking guests to bring their own sides and utensils can further minimize risk.
Rather than splurging on costly steaks, keep spending down by buying ground beef for burgers or choosing bone-in pork chops. Try nontraditional items on the grill, such as pineapple or romaine. These grilling hints will help you keep the event affordable.
2. Go to a Drive-In Film
If your usual Father’s Day plan involves catching a summer film at the cinema, think about visiting a drive-in instead.
A drive-in movie makes for a fun family outing while avoiding close contact with others. You’ll probably spend less than purchasing multiple indoor theater tickets. This directory from DriveInMovie.com can help you locate a drive-in near you.
Some drive-ins that once banned outside food and drinks may have eased those rules because of current circumstances. Check in advance to see if you can bring your own snacks and beverages.
These extra drive-in tips can help make your experience more economical.
3. Spend Time Outdoors
If the weather cooperates, mark Father’s Day by doing one of Dad’s preferred outdoor activities.
Go for a hike or a bike ride. If you’re near water, consider fishing or paddling. You probably won’t be the only people planning to be outside, so head out early or choose a less trafficked spot to avoid crowds.
4. Tackle Something on His To-Do List
Acts of service are meaningful gestures. Show Dad you appreciate him by helping lighten his load.
Surprise him with a freshly mowed lawn or consult YouTube for instructions on fixing that gadget he’s been fiddling with. If your father isn’t one to ask for help, you may need to use a bit of detective work to figure out what would be most useful.
5. Play Games Together
A video game bracket or a board-game showdown are entertaining ways to spend Father’s Day — and these plans work even if you aren’t in the same household as Dad.
Join a multiplayer video game with him or explore platforms like Tabletopia and Jackbox Games to play digital board games. Many titles aren’t free, but they’re typically low-cost. Pooling money with siblings to cover a purchase can be an easy gift.
6. Jam Together Over Video Chat
If Dad ever wanted to be in a band, now’s a fun chance to make that happen — at least for fun.
Ask musically inclined friends who have instruments at home to join a scheduled video call and play together. Extra credit if you can recruit someone with a drum kit. Pick your preferred video service from a list of free platforms.
7. Have the Kids Create a Sweet Father’s Day Craft
Even if kids aren’t in school, they can still put their artistic skills to work to make something special for Dad.
Explore Father’s Day craft projects from Michaels and Joann. Pinterest is another great source for craft ideas.
Check your home for supplies before buying anything new — you may already have what you need.
Also consider gifting homemade items by searching for diy fathers day gifts that are thoughtful and inexpensive.
Nicole Lane is a senior writer at Savinly.
