Stay Safe Father’s Day Ideas

Up next, along with rescheduled graduations, is Father’s Day and in a COVID-19 world, the best bet for families who want to honor Dad is to keep the celebration outdoors.  We naturally think of hosting a barbecue but food-sharing can be complicated without exposing older adults to risk for infection.  The last thing anyone would want to do is to organize a party that got their loved-ones sick. 

Here are some other ideas for a quarantine Father’s Day: 

Fathers, sons, daughters and grandkids can easily plan a small fishing trip; drive separately and pack a lunch for each person.  Maintaining a six-foot distance will come naturally, so lines won’t get tangled.   Or if Dad enjoys being more active, a family bike ride, nature hike or golf game may be something that makes the day feel special.   Those sharing a household can still enjoy a home-cooked (or delivered) brunch or lunch, a beer or wine tasting or if Dad has a sweet tooth, a selection of his favorite desserts with iced coffee or tea. 

In a small group of fewer than 10 people, families can celebrate Dad with some backyard games like corn hole, badminton or croquet.  Have each person bring their own food and beverages and keep lots of sanitizing wipes on hand; wear masks if keeping 6 feet apart will be a problem.  If rain cancels outdoor plans, board games and puzzles are a pastime that can include all generations. 

Are your guys missing their favorite sport?  Why not stream a past event and relive the moment?  NFL Game Pass is offering free access to their library until July 31 and the MLB has opened up 2018-2019 footage for fans.  

If gathering in person isn’t possible due to health conditions or living arrangements, families can still get together virtually and watch a movie with Netflix Party, tour a museum online or host a game night.   Don’t forget to get the kids involved making cards they can post, but don’t wait until the last minute because mail and delivery services are running slower than usual. 

Like everything in life right now, in order to keep people safe, it may take a little more patience, effort and creativity to plan a celebration.  But with a positive mindset and some extra planning, this might be one of the best Father’s Day on record!