Tag Archives: Family Activities for Father’s Day

June 13, 2023 · 3:15 pm

Ideas to Make Father’s Day Extra Awesome for Dads (2023)

Show your ❤️ for dad this weekend!

Dads’ big day is coming up this weekend, and if you’re still looking for ways for the whole fam to celebrate it, you’ve got lots of options. This round-up has a great mix of suggestions — with something to suit every honoree. Happy Father’s Day!

Take Dad Out to the Ballgame
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront & Shaw, DC
When: June 16-19
Admission: Ticket prices vary
For Dads who are Nats fans, take them to the ballpark for a game against the Marlins. They are playing Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, so if the actual Father’s Day doesn’t work, you’ve got other options — and there are special promos and activities on some of them, including a Racing President’s bobblehead giveaway on Saturday.

Awesome Con
Where: Washington Convention Center | Mount Vernon, DC
When: June 16-18
Admission: Starts at $45/day for adult, $15/kid, free/2 & under free
For dads who really dig pop culture, this is the event for them! The mid-Atlantic’s premier pop culture convention brings a three-day celebration of television, movies, comic books, science, technology and more to DC for the weekend. All kinds of cool programs, an impressive lineup of special guests, and exciting activities for fans are in store. Geek dads of all ages can enjoy events including a Lord of the Rings panel with Elijah Wood, Sean Austin, and Andy Serkis; video and tabletop gaming; a whole cosplay area, and so much more!

Walk in the Woods
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by locale
Celebrate the day and dad on the trail. Tramp in places with scenic views, walk and explore history at interesting locales, try to spot wild creatures, and enjoy a day of active fun. Bring along a picnic for lunch al fresco, too. This go-to KFDC post has a bunch of recommendations for good places to hit the trail with kids.

Hike & Sip (or Feast)
Where: Around the DC area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by place
These specific recommendations for hikes are great if you want to extend the day to include food and drinks to celebrate, too. A few awesome combos for that: Patuxent River State Park and Waredaca Brewery (how we celebrated last year), Sky Meadows State Park and Barrel Oak Winery. Sugarloaf Mountain and The Comus Inn or Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard. Great Falls (MD side) and The Old Angler’s Inn. Patapsco Valley State Park and the Guinness Brewery.

Father’s Day Fish-a- Rama
Where: Great Country Farms | Bluemont, VA
When: June 18
Admission: $15/child, $17/adult
Treat Dad to a fun-filled day with BBQ and catch-and-release fishing. Guests can compete in the Fish-a-Rama contest, fishing for catfish, bass, and blue gill in the stocked ponds, and prizes are on the line for the largest fish hooked. Bring your own pole and gear to fish (no drag hooks). GCF has worms for purchase in the country store. The amusement continues on the five-acre farm-style playground featuring the Giant Jumping Pillow, Triple Threat slide, corn bin, animal barnyard, and loads more fun for all.

Meal for the Man of the Hour
Where: Around the DC Area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Cost of your meal
You really can’t go wrong with plans focused around food and drink, and there are plenty of restaurants around DC to go out for a good, fun meal with the fam. Here are a few of my recs: Ivy City Smokehouse, All Purpose Pizzeria, Hank’s Oyster Bar, Martin’s Tavern, Cactus Cantina, Farmers Fishers Bakers, and Tabard Inn. Be sure to make reservations.

United with Dad
Where: Audi Field | Southwest DC
When: June 17, 7:30pm
Admission: Tickets start at $29 (look for a discount)
For dads who are fútbol fans, a DC United match is great way to celebrate. They’re hosting Real Salt Lake on Saturday evening, so you can catch the soccer action and also enjoy some fun on Sunday. Plan on dinner before the game or some fun after to make it even more special for dad — there are plenty of places for it in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. For a family meal, I recommend The Salt Line, All Purpose Pizza, El Bebe, Agua 301, and Due South. If you make it an adult outing and go for drinks after, try Dacha Beer Garden or Solace Outpost.

Tee Up
Where: Top Golf | National Harbor & Gaithersburg, MD
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Starts at $27/bay
For dads who like to golf, plan a swing session for the whole fam that doesn’t require you to play all 9 or 18 holes, that’s also in a sheltered space, so you don’t have to worry about weather At Top Golf, you drive balls from climate controlled sheltered bays, so you can still enjoy fresh air and be comfy. Plus, there ’s a full service restaurant and bar (for parents, obvi) to make a full experience of it. Be sure to reserve ahead as they likely weill fill up for Father’s Day. And if you can’t snag a bay, think about giving a session there as a gift!

Axe Throwing
Where: Kick Axe Throwing | Northeast DC
When: Ongoing
Admission: $33/hour per person, $45/1.5 hour
For another kind game, how about axe throwing? Kids ages 8 and up can get in on the fun, so you can celebrate dad with a unique outing for the whole crew. And Kick Axe throwing is, well, throwing in treats for the man of the hour — a free beer and hot dog off the grill. Plus, there also will be drink special and other throw-back games like Connect4, card games, and more. Be sure to reserve in advance!

Juneteenth Celebrations
Where: Around the DC area
When: Throughout Father’s Day weekend
Admission: Varies by activity
Father’s Day is one day before Juneteenth, and the weekend will be filled with events to commemorate the holiday, many of them great ways to celebrate dad. This round-up has details on where and when they are happening.

Fun in the Trees
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
When: Ongoing
Admission: Starts at $48
For adventurous dads who love the outdoors, particularly being in the trees, an afternoon in the aerial adventure forest of the Adventure Park at Sandy Springs is the perfect way to spend the day — it is hands down the best aerial ropes course in the area. There are still some tickets available for Sunday, but if you can’t score them for that day, think Father’s Day gift and reserve for another day! Read more about the Adventure Park here.

Take Dad Out to the Minors
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | Bowie, MD
When: Throughout Father’s Day weekend
Admission: Starts at $16
The Nats aren’t the only team in town for some Father’s Day baseball. The Bowie Baysox, one of the local minor league teams, are hosting the Richmond Flying Squirrels all weekend, and there’s extra fun and special promos to enjoy — post-game fireworks, packages especially for Father’s Day, and giveaways among them.

Go With the Flow
Where: Around the DC area
Admission: Varies by locale
Spend quality time with the man of the hour on the water, where you can paddle and explore. A bunch of places around the area rent kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and pontoons. Fletcher’s Boathouse is a popular place to go. The Wharf is a great starting place for a paddling excursion. Quiet Waters Park showcases beautiful nature in Annapolis that you can view from the South River. Bladensburg Waterfront Park also has vessels for rent for a great all-day deal. And if you want to go a little bigger, consider a Solomons Island pontoon boat rental (the post is about a Mother’s Day excursion, but can obvi be for Father’s Day, too). For even more recommendations, see this round-up of places for recreation on the water.

Disc Golfin’
Where: Parks Around the DC Area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by locale (usually FREE)
Celebrate the day by hitting the links, the chain links, that is! Disc golf is a great way to enjoy a day outdoors with the fam. This post has info about our favorite in College Park, and there are also great courses at Patapsco Valey State Park in MD, Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton, VA, Seneca Creek State Park in Gaithersburg, MD, and Burke Lake Park in Burke, VA. Not only is it fun and challenging, the courses are set up in pretty parks with opportunities for more recreation at all of them. Bring along a picnic for lunch in the fresh air, too.

A Grand Feast
Where: Crab houses around the area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Cost of your meal
Steamed crabs, cold beer, scenic views… that’s a recipe for a great Father’s Day for at least one dad I know. The 2023 Summer Guide has several suggestions on where to feast on Maryland’s best dish. I recommend making reservations if possible — this is always a popular way to celebrate.

***Gift Ideas***
* Fun mug
* Great board game
* Summer sandals
* Whiskey making kit
* A nice daypack
* Tickets to see Messi play!

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Filed under 2023, DC, Maryland, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as DC Father's Day Specials, Family Activities for Father's Day, Father's Day Ideas, Father's Day Weekend 2023, Fun Things to do in the Washington DC Area, Fun with Kids in Maryland, Fun with Kids in Northern Virginia, June 2023, Summer Events, Weekend June 17-18

June 15, 2022 · 10:08 am

Fun Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day Around DC

All adoring eyes on dad this weekend

It’s a special day for the dads this coming weekend, and there are a bunch of great ways for the whole fam to celebrate if you’re still looking for ideas. This round-up has a variety of suggestions, with something to suit every honoree. Happy Father’s Day!

Take Dad Out to the Ballgame
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront & Shaw, DC
When: June 16-19
Admission: Ticket prices vary
For Dads who are Nats fans, take them to the ballpark for a game against the Phillies. They are hosting them Thursday through Sunday, so if the actual Father’s Day doesn’t work, you’ve got your pick of other days — and there are special promos and activities on some of them, including Ryan Zimmerman’s retirement ceremony on Saturday.

Hike+
Where: Around the DC area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by place
Just mentioned above, but these specific recommendations for hikes are great if you want to extend the day to include food and drinks to celebrate, too. A few awesome combos for that: Sky Meadows State Park and Barrel Oak Winery. Sugarloaf Mountain and The Comus Inn or Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard. Great Falls (MD side) and The Old Angler’s Inn. Patapsco Valley State Park and the Guinness Brewery.

Free Beer!
Where: All Purpose Pizza | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: June 19
Admission: Cost of your meal
According to All-Purpose Pizza, “all he wants is a hot slice (or 5) and a cold beer, trust us … we know.” Both their Riverfront and Shaw restaurants will have their respective brunch menus on offer; even better, they are gifting dads with a pint of their DC Brau collab, Full Count Lager — on the house! And their brunch is delicious — trust me. Make a reservation here.

Columbia Pike Blues Fest & Juneteenth Walk
Where: Arlington, VA
When: June 18-19
Admission: Free (some activities are extra)
If your honoree likes the blues, take him to the annual Columbia Pike Blues Festival. Starting on Saturday at 1pm and going through Sunday, the event will feature performances by many local blues bands and artists along with more family-friendly activities. Interact with the Arlington Art Truck, and enjoy food, beverages, arts, and a KidsZone. On Sunday, join a Historic Juneteenth Walk through the neighborhood in collaboration with the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington and Walk Arlington from 9-10am, visit the Columbia Pike Farmers Market for the live performance of Rick Franklin, followed by a special “Blues Brunch Menu” at Café Sazó. Close the weekend with a free screening of the musical-comedy The Blues Brothers at the Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse at 3pm.

Father’s Day Fish-a- Rama
Where: Great Country Farms | Bluemont, VA
When: June 19
Admission: $15/child, $17/adult
Treat Dad to a fun-filled weekend with BBQ and catch-and-release fishing. Guests can compete in the Fish-a-Rama contest, fishing for catfish, bass, and blue gill in the stocked ponds, and prizes are on the line for the largest fish hooked from 9am – 2pm. Bring your own pole and gear to fish (no drag hooks). GCF has worms for purchase in the country store. The amusement continues on the five-acre farm-style playground featuring the Giant Jumping Pillow, Triple Threat slide, corn bin, animal barnyard, and loads more fun for all.

Food & Drink Filled Festivities
Where: Around the DC Area
When: June 19
Admission: Cost of your meal
You really can’t go wrong with plans focused around food and drink, and there are a bunch of restaurants and other places around DC that are offering something special for the big day, from Juneteenth-inspired menus to five-course feasts to whiskey evenings to meals that you can pick up and enjoy at home. This Washingtonian article has a great round-up of them. And if you just want to go out for a good, fun meal with the fam, here are a few of my recs: Ivy City Smokehouse, The Salt Line, Lupo Marino, Cactus Cantina, and Farmers Fishers Bakers, and Tabard Inn. Be sure to make reservations.

Fun in the Trees
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
When: Ongoing
Admission: Starts at $42
For adventurous dads who love the outdoors, particularly being in the trees, an afternoon in the aerial adventure forest of the Adventure Park at Sandy Springs is the perfect way to spend the day — it is hands down the best aerial ropes course in the area. There are still some tickets available for Sunday, but if you can’t score them for that day, think Father’s Day gift and reserve for another day! (FYI: This is one of our favorite adventures in the area — read more about it here.)

Juneteenth Freedom Celebration
Where: National Harbor, | Oxon Hill, MD
When: June 19, 2-4pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate dad and Juneteenth at National Harbor, where there will be performances on the Plaza stage from the Prince George’s County Poet Laureate and Youth Poet Laureate, local dancers, live music, artists, and more. The property is partnering with the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council for a day of education, reflection and celebration. Food truck Mardi Gras Tyme will add to the festivities and offer a variety of southern cuisine samples, plus there are dozens of nearby restaurants. And there are even more fun activities to enjoy at National Harbor — read more about all of them here.

Thee Phantom and the Illharmonic Orchestra
Where: Wolf Trap | Vienna, VA
When: June 19
Admission: $27
This show family-friendly show celebrating Juneteenth is a great evening activity on dad’s big day. Hip-hop and classical music collide when Thee Phantom and The Illharmonic Orchestra come to Wolf Trap for a special performance. The all-star lineup features some of the most outstanding Black orchestral musicians from across the country performing works by Beethoven, Donny Hathaway, Jay-Z, Rossini, Wu-Tang Clan, Mozart, Mary J Blige, and William Grant Still.

Take Dad Out to the Minors
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | Bowie, MD
When: Throughout Father’s Day weekend
Admission: Starts at $16
The Nats aren’t the only team in town for some Father’s Day baseball. The Bowie Baysox, one of the local minor league teams, are hosting the Binghamton Rumble Ponies all weekend, and there’s extra fun and special promos to enjoy — post-game fireworks, a Roberto Clemente Latin celebration on Saturday, and giveaways among them.

Disc Golfin’
Where: Parks Around the DC Area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Varies by locale (usually FREE)
Celebrate the day by hitting the links, the chain links, that is! Disc golf is a great way to savor a day outdoors with the family. This post has info about our favorite in College Park, and there are also great courses at Patapsco Valey State Park in MD, Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton, VA, Seneca Creek State Park in Gaithersburg, MD, and Burke Lake Park in Burke, VA. Not only is it fun and challenging, the courses are set up in pretty parks with opportunities for more recreation at all of them. Bring along a picnic for lunch in the fresh air, too.

A Grand Feast
Where: Crab houses around the area
When: Ongoing
Admission: Cost of your meal
Steamed crabs, cold beer, scenic views… that’s a recipe for a great Father’s Day for at least one dad I know. The 2022 Summer Guide has several suggestions on where to feast on Maryland’s best dish. I recommend making reservations if possible — this is always a popular way to celebrate.

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Filed under 2022, DC, Maryland, Summer, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as DC Father's Day Specials, Family Activities for Father's Day, Father's Day 2021, Father's Day Ideas, Fun Things to do in the Washington DC Area, Fun with Kids in Maryland, Fun with Kids in Northern Virginia, June 2022, Summer Events, Weekend June 18-19

June 17, 2021 · 8:34 am

Fun Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day Around the DC Area

How about a little trail dancing on a Father’s Day hike? 😉

It’s a special day for the dads this coming weekend, and there are a bunch of great ways for the whole fam to celebrate if you’re still looking for ideas. This round-up has a variety of them with something to suit every dad . Happy Father’s Day!

Take Dad Out to the Ballgame
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: June 20, 1:05pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
For Dads who are Nats fans, take them to the ballpark for a game against the Mets. There’s an afternoon game on Sunday (that includes a t-shirt giveaway for kids). Nationals Park is now operating at 100% capacity, so you can cheer the team on with 40,000+ other fans. Plus, the playground is open again for little ones to have some extra fun.

Take Dad Out to the Minors
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | Bowie, MD
When: Father’s Day Weekend
Admission: Starts at $10
The Nats aren’t the only team in town for some Father’s Day baseball. The Bowie Baysox, one of the local minor league teams, are hosting the Akron Rubber Ducks all weekend, and there’s extra fun and special promos to enjoy — post-game fireworks, Witch & Wizardry Night on Saturday, and giveaways among them. On Sunday, the first 500 dads will get a #1 Dad Baysox T-shirt, plus kids and dads can run the bases and play catch on the field post-game.

Walk in the Woods
Where: Around the DMV
When: All the time
Admission: Varies by locale
Celebrate the day and dad on the trail! Tramp in places with scenic views, walk and explore history at interesting locales, try to spot wild creatures, and enjoy a day of active fun. Bring along a picnic for lunch al fresco, too. This go-to KFDC post has a bunch of recommendations for good places to hit the trail with kids.

Hike+
Where: Around the area
When: Throughout the weekend
Admission: Varies by place
Just mentioned above, but these specific recommendations for hikes are great if you want to extend the day to include a fun meal to celebrate, too. A few awesome combos for that: Sky Meadows State Park and Barrel Oak Winery. Sugarloaf Mountain and The Comus Inn or Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard. Great Falls (MD side) and The Old Angler’s Inn. Patapsco Valley State Park and the Guinness Brewery.

Father’s Day Fish-a- Rama
Where: Great Country Farms | Bluemont, VA
When: June 20
Admission: $15/child, $17/adult
Treat Dad to a fun-filled weekend with BBQ and catch-and-release fishing. Guests can compete in the Fish-a-Rama contest, fishing for catfish, bass, and blue gill in the stocked ponds, and prizes are on the line for the largest fish hooked and the most fish caught during the power hour. Bring your own pole and gear to fish (no drag hooks). GCF has worms for purchase in the country store. The amusement continues on the five-acre farm-style playground featuring the Giant Jumping Pillow, Triple Threat slide, corn bin, animal barnyard and loads more fun for all.

Kids, Eggs & Kegs
Where: City-State Brewing Company | Northeast DC
When: June 19 & 20, 10am
Admission: Free, but plan to purchase food and drinks
City-State brewing is launching family-focused events this weekend — just in time to toast the dads! Kids, Eggs & Kegs will be held every Saturday and Sunday and includes food trucks, games, and toys, plus tasty non-alcoholic beverages. While City-State is always family-friendly, this event is specifically tailored to families with young children. Options for kids include: board games, arcade games, sidewalk chalk, toys for toddlers, DC-themed coloring pages, free Goldfish snacks, and tasty kid-friendly beverages. City-State has changing tables in the restrooms. The fun starts at 10am at the brewery located at 705 Edgewood St NE.

Fun in the Trees
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
When: June 20
Admission: Starts at $42, Dads are FREE!
For adventurous dads who love the outdoors, particularly being in the trees, an afternoon in the aerial adventure forest of the Adventure Park at Sandy Springs is the perfect way to spend the day. There are still some tickets available for Sunday, but if you can’t score them for that day, think Father’s Day gift and reserve for another day! (FYI: This is one of our very favorite adventures in the area — read more about it here.)

BBQ & Bowl (or Bocce)
Where: Pinstripes | Georgetown, DC
When: June 20, 10am – 4pm
Admission: $29/adult
Treat dad to a special barbeque brunch buffet this Father’s Day! Pinstripes’ grand brunch buffet usually includes made-to-order omelets, bottomless mimosas, a waffle bar, carved prime rib, fresh seafood, salad bar, and a chocolate fountain and delectable dessert station. Plus, they grill summer favorites like BBQ ribs, Italian sausage, pesto. Reserve a lane for some bowling or bocce after your meal (extra cost)!

Brunch Time
Where: Around the DMV
When: June 20
Admission: Cost of your meal
You can’t really go wrong with a good meal, and there are a bunch of places around DC to enjoy an especially great one for the big day. Washingtonian has a round-up of places offering special meals just for the day, and there’s something to satisfy all food cravings.

Go With the Flow
Where: Around the DMV
Admission: Varies by locale
Spend quality time with the man of the hour on the water, where you can paddle and explore. A bunch of places around the area rent kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and pontoons. Fletcher’s Boathouse is a popular place to go. Quiet Waters Park showcases beautiful nature in Annapolis that you can view from the South River. Bladensburg Waterfront Park also has vessels for rent for a great all-day deal. And if you want to go a little bigger, consider a Solomons Island pontoon boat rental. For even more recommendations, see this round-up of places for recreation on the water.

Disc Golfin’
Where: Parks Around the DMV
When: Father’s Day weekend (or anytime)
Admission: Varies by locale (usually free)
Celebrate the day by hitting the links, the chain links, that is! Disc golf is a great way to savor a day outdoors with the family. We’ve outings at Calvert Road Park in College Park, Seneca Creek State Park in Gaithersburg, and Burke Lake Park. Not only is it fun and challenging, the courses are set up in pretty parks with opportunities for more recreation at all of them. Bring along a picnic for lunch in the fresh air, too.

A Grand Feast
Where: Crab houses around the area
When: June 20 (or any day)
Admission: Cost of the meal
Steamed crabs, cold beer, scenic views… that’s a recipe for a great Father’s Day for at least one dad I know. The 2021 Summer Guide has several suggestions on where to feast on Maryland’s best dish. I recommend making reservations if possible — this is always a popular way to celebrate.

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Filed under 2021, DC, Holidays, Weekend

June 11, 2019 · 5:16 pm

Fun Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day Around the DMV

We’re getting ready to celebrate this doting dad

It’s a special day for the dads this coming weekend, and there are a bunch of great ways for the whole fam to celebrate if you’re still looking for ideas. From made-for-the-day events to DIY pursuits, this round-up has something to suit them all. Happy Father’s Day!

May the Force (& Nats) Be with Dad
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: June 15 & 16
Admission: Ticket prices vary
For Dads who are Nats fans and Star Wars enthusiasts, take them out to the ball game for an early celebration on Saturday when Nationals Park transforms into a galaxy far, far away for Star Wars Day. Characters from Star Wars will pose for photos with fans, stage live combats, and participate in the Presidents Race. Plus, there will be an Obi “Sean” Kenobi bobblehead for the first 10,000 fans. You can also plan to spend actual Father’s Day, Sunday, at the ball park as the Nats play the Arizona Diamondbacks. There won’t be any galactic extras, but straight-up baseball is always a good time.

Father’s Day at Mount Vernon
Where: Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens | Mount Vernon, VA
When: June 15-16, 9am – 5pm
Admission: $20/adult, $12/ages 6-11, free for ages 5 and under
Spend the day with the Father of our Country! This coming weekend, guests can enjoy a meet-and-greet and photo ops with “General Washington” as well as a special “Father to the First Family” program. You can also celebrate with a special meal at the Mount Vernon Inn. Relax in the sunken garden or restaurant and enjoy a variety of barbecued items.

Free in the Trees
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
When: June 16
Admission: Starts at $42, Dads are FREE!
For adventurous dads who love the outdoors, particularly being in the trees, an afternoon in the aerial adventure forest of the Adventure Park at Sandy Springs is the perfect way to spend the day — especially when admission is on them. Get dad’s ticket free when accompanied by a paid climber using the promo code DADS19. (FYI: This is one of our very favorite adventures in the area — read more about it here.)

Jazz it Up
Where: The Wharf | Southwest DC
When: June 15-16
Admission: Free
Does dad dig jazz music? DC JazzFest lands at The Wharf on Father’s Day Weekend for two days of world class jazz, music education, beer and wine gardens, and a diverse marketplace experience. Enjoy free concerts on District and Transit Piers starting at 2pm or make a weekend of it with VIP festival passes. On Friday, June 14 and Saturday June 15, the festival also includes ticketed shows at the Anthem — catch Snarky Puppy and Jose James on Friday or Jon Batiste & Stay Human on Saturday. Even more jazz performances will be presented at other venues around DC, see the schedule on the DC JazzFest website.

Soccer Festival
Where: Tyler Elementary School | Capitol Hill, DC
When: June 16, 3-5pm
Admission: Free
Kick it with DC Way on Father’s Day — the goal of this festival is to gather parents and children to play soccer, socialize, and have fun! Festival programs will include multiple games and activities, kids vs. parents games, and obstacle courses. Plus, participants will also get a special gift.

Take Dad Out to the Minors
Where: Prince George’s Stadium | Bowie, MD
When: Father’s Day Weekend
Admission: Starts at $10
The Nats aren’t the only team in town for some Father’s Day baseball. The Bowie Baysox, one of the local minor league teams, are hosting the Trenton Thunder all weekend, and there’s extra fun and special promos to enjoy — post-game fireworks, a Stranger Things-themed game on Saturday, and giveaways among them. On Sunday, take Dad to the ballpark early, collect a Baysox beer glass, and bring a glove and baseball to play catch with Dad on the Baysox field before the game! There’s also a Father’s Day Grill Event to if you want to add a special meal to the fun.

Father’s Day Fish-a- Rama
Where: Great Country Farms | Bluemont, VA
When: June 16
Admission: $8/child, $10/adult
Treat Dad to a fun-filled weekend with BBQ and catch-and-release fishing. Guests can compete in the Fish-a-Rama contest, fishing for catfish, bass, and blue gill in the stocked ponds, and prizes are on the line for the largest fish hooked and the most fish caught during the power hour. Bring your own pole and gear to fish (no drag hooks). GCF has worms for purchase in the country store. The amusement continues on the five-acre farm-style playground featuring the Giant Jumping Pillow, Triple Threat slide, corn bin, animal barnyard and loads more fun for all.

Investigation: Detective McDevitt
Where: Begins at Ford’s Theater | Downtown DC
When: Father’s Day Weekend
Admission: $18
This walking tour of downtown DC will appeal to dads who like history and intrigue… On the night of April 14, 1865, Detective James McDevitt was on duty at the Washington Metropolitan Police headquarters, a half-block from Ford’s Theatre. Just before 10:30pm, frantic witnesses rushed in with horrifying news: President Lincoln had been shot at the theatre. Join Detective McDevitt as he revisits the sites and reexamines the clues from the investigation into the Lincoln Assassination Conspiracy. Part of “History on Foot,” the tour makes eight stops around the downtown area. It does not include entrance into Ford’s Theatre, but you can do that separately — read more about that here. Recommended for ages 8+.

Family Scavenger Hunt Adventure
Where: National Gallery of Art | National Mall, DC
When: June 16, 2pm
Admission: $19.50/adult, $17.50/child
For dads who love some sleuthing (a penchant for Harry Potter helps, too), the next Wizard School Scavenger Hunt by Watson Adventures happens to fall on Father’s Day. The fun, unique activity for families has you on a mission competing against other teams to find art that echoes characters, places, and enchanted objects in the famed Harry Potter books and movies, with the help of clever Harry Potter-themed clues. And while the website says it’s for ages 10 and up, kids younger than that definitely can partake, too! This KFDC post has more about this awesome adventure.

BBQ & Bowl
Where: Pinstripes | Georgetown, DC
When: June 16, 10am – 4pm
Admission: $40/adult, $15/child, free/5 & under
Treat dad to a special barbeque brunch buffet this Father’s Day! Pinstripes’ grand brunch buffet usually includes made-to-order omelets, bottomless mimosas, a waffle bar, carved prime rib, fresh seafood, salad bar, and a chocolate fountain and delectable dessert station. Plus, they grill summer favorites like BBQ ribs, Italian sausage, pesto. Be sure to reserve a lane for some bowling or bocce after your meal!

Women’s World Cup Watch
Where: Wheaton Sports Pavilion | Wheaton, MD
When: June 16, 11:30am – 3pm
Admission: Varies
Join Montgomery Parks’ for free a watch party and open house during the FIFA Women’s World Cup match between USA and Chile. Doors open at 11:30am with kick-off slated for 12pm. The powerhouse matchup will be shown on a blow-up big-screen in a family-friendly atmosphere. Food trucks will be on-site offering refreshments for purchase. This WaPo article has suggestions for even more places to watch the big fútbol tourney, some of them family-friendly.

Brunch Time
Where: Around the DMV
When: June 16
Admission: Cost of your meal
You can’t really go wrong with a good meal, and there are a bunch of places around DC to enjoy an especially great one for the big day. This round-up from Bitches Who Brunch has some suggestions that will satisfy all food cravings. I particularly like the All Purpose idea… you can have a meal, then let the kids play in the sprays of the in-ground fountain around the corner.

Walk in the Woods
Where: Around the DMV
When: All the time
Admission: Varies by locale
Celebrate the day and dad on the trail! Tramp in places with scenic views, walk and explore history at interesting locales, try to spot wild cretaures, and enjoy a day of active fun. Bring along a picnic for lunch al fresco, too. This go-to KFDC post has a bunch of recommendations for good places to hit the trail with kids.

Go With the Flow
Where: Around the DMV
Admission: Varies by locale
Spend quality time with the man of the hour on the water, where you can paddle and explore. A bunch of places around the area rent kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and pontoons. Fletcher’s Boathouse is a popular place to go, and you can also row from the Ballpark Boathouse next to Yards Park. Quiet Waters Park showcases beautiful nature in Annapolis that you can view from the South River. Bladensburg Waterfront Park also has vessels for rent along with pontoon boat tours on weekends from 5-5:45 ($2-3). See this round-up for even more places to put in and flow.

Disc Golfin’
Where: Parks Around the DMV
When: Father’s Day weekend (or anytime)
Admission: Varies by locale (usually free)
Celebrate the day by hitting the links, the chain links, that is! Disc golf is a great way to enjoy a day outdoors with the family. We’ve enjoyed outings at Calvert Road Park in College Park, Seneca Creek State Park in Gaithersburg, and Burke Lake Park. Not only is it fun and challenging, the courses are set up in pretty parks with opportunities for more recreation at all of them. Bring along a picnic for lunch in the fresh air, too.

A Grand Feast
Where: Crab houses around the area
When: June 16 (or any day)
Admission: Cost of the meal
Steamed crabs, cold beer, scenic views… that’s a recipe for a great Father’s Day for at least one dad I know. The 2019 Summer Guide has several suggestions on where to feast on Maryland’s best dish. I recommend making reservations if possible — this is always a popular way to celebrate.