Dad. Pops. Daddy. There are many reasons why we love the fathers in our lives — they’re sweet, helpful and maybe they even know some pretty good Dad jokes. Most of all, they love their kids no matter what.
When Father’s Day rolls around, we want to make sure Dads know that they’re the best. There are so many ways to make them feel great, including delicious food, meaningful gifts or a special family outing.
You might need to make a few adjustments to your Father’s Day plans in 2022, but you can still make June 20 an unforgettable day for dad. We’ve rounded up some fun Father’s Day activities that Chicago families can enjoy.
Events
Local businesses are getting creative to celebrate Dads with these fun family events. Looking for more Father’s Day events? Check out the latest events added to our calendar and more of our top picks listed in this roundup.
Father’s Day Pizza Party
June 17 and 19, 2022
- Address: Taste Buds Kitchen, 2521 Waukegan Road, Bannockburn
- Cost: $40 per child with caregiver
Kids ages 2-8 and dads will build a mini pizza with homemade dough, tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese and basil. This class is designed for kids and parents to cook together. Registration required.
Take Me Fishing
June 18, 2022
- Address: Robert W. Bernas Park, 5716 S. Wilmette Ave., Westmont
- Cost: Free, no fishing license required
Families can enjoy a fishing event at Bernas Park. Fishing prizes and giveaways will be given to participants while supplies last.
Father’s Day Classic Car Show at Oakbrook Center
June 19, 2022
- Address: 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook
- Cost: Free
Celebrating its 52nd year, the event features more than 70,000 visitors are expected to attend this one-day-only event where more than 80 antique, classic, vintage and specialty automobiles will be on display throughout Oakbrook Center.
Gifts
Don’t wait until the last minute to find the perfect Father’s Day gift! Here’s help to get you started, whether you want your Father’s Day gifts practical or something special and homemade from the kids.
Handmade Father’s Day Cards (Metro Parent)
Skip buying a card this year and give Dad something that he will treasure forever. These handmade Father’s Day cards from Metro Parent make our hearts melt. Especially the “I Love You This Much” card!
Father’s Day Gift Experiences
Sometimes it’s tricky to find a wonderful gift for the dads in your life. We rounded up some simple and cool Father’s Day gift experiences that any dad will love.
Tin Can Planter Craft
Brighten up Dad’s day by re-creating one of these tin can planters filled with personality. Tip: Let the kids get creative by adding a little more of Dad to the planter gift. You can print out family photos or include his favorite sports team.
Food
Surprise dad with a great meal for Father’s Day. While you can take him out to his favorite restaurant, you can also cook at home or treat him with the best ice cream with these suggestions.
Suburban Breweries Worth the Trip
Make a toast to the best dad in the world. Some of these suburban breweries are family-friendly, but you can also make it a special outing with your partner, or even own father, for some quality time without the kids.
Slider Recipes for Father’s Day (Metro Parent)
Sliders are fun and delicious for the whole family. Plus, you can make more than one recipe to give everyone plenty of options. Our personal favorites on this list has to be Sloppy Joe sliders and cheesesteak sliders.
Ice Cream Shops in Chicagoland
We all scream for ice cream! With Father’s Day taking place in the summer, you can’t say no to a trip visiting one of these ice cream shops.
More Activities
As much as any father would love food and gifts on his dedicated day, sometimes family time is just as special. Here are some ideas on things to do with the whole family on Father’s Day.
Watch a Father’s Day movie
If you want to relax at home, grab some popcorn and catch these dad-focused movies featured in our Watch This, Do That series. Some movies to watch include Finding Nemo, Despicable Me and The Mitchells vs. The Machines. Plus, read about Chicago TV dads we love and learn from.
Go on a beautiful bike ride
Expecting amazing weather on Father’s Day? Take out the bikes and head out on an outdoor adventure. We rounded up our favorite family-friendly biking trails in Chicagoland with the best views.
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