Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Every Kind of Dad

When is Father’s Day?

In the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and many other countries, Father’s Day is the third Sunday in June. Dates differ elsewhere:

Start with the dad, not the gift

Before browsing, answer three questions:

1. What does he do in his free time? The best gifts support something he already loves.
2. What does he use every day that’s worn out? Practical upgrades are often the most appreciated.
3. Would he rather have a thing or a memory? Many dads say they want “nothing” — which often means time together.

Gift ideas by type of dad

The grill master

• A quality meat thermometer (the most useful barbecue tool there is)
• Long-handled tongs, a sturdy spatula or a grill-cleaning brush
• A selection of spice rubs or sauces
• A cookbook focused on smoking or grilling

The outdoors dad

• A headlamp, insulated mug or compact camp chair
• A national or state park pass, or a guidebook to local trails
• A planned hike, fishing day or camping trip together
• A brewing kit for outdoor coffee

The handyman

• A tool organizer, magnetic wristband or quality tape measure
• A replacement for that one tool he keeps borrowing or that is worn out
• A gift card to a local hardware store if you don’t know his tools

The homebody

• Comfortable slippers, a robe or a cozy blanket
• A board game or puzzle to play as a family
• His favorite snacks, coffee or tea in a gift basket

The sports fan

• Tickets to a local game, including minor-league or college teams
• A watch party at home with his favorite food
• A team-themed item he doesn’t already own

The bookworm or lifelong learner

• A book by an author he loves, or a new release in his favorite genre
• An audiobook or podcast-friendly gadget for commutes
• A class he’s mentioned — cooking, woodworking, photography

The joke dad

• A homemade “joke a day” calendar using our best dad jokes
• A mug or T-shirt printed with his signature pun
• A framed list of his greatest one-liners, as remembered by the family

Gifts by budget

• Free: a handwritten letter, a “coupon book” for chores or activities, a homemade breakfast, a playlist of songs from his youth, a day where he picks every activity.
• Small budget: his favorite snacks, a book, a plant, a framed family photo, a new pair of good socks.
• Medium budget: a hobby upgrade, a meal out together, tickets to an event, a class.
• Bigger budget: a weekend trip, a quality piece of gear for a serious hobby, or a family experience.

Handmade gifts kids can make

• A drawing or painting of “Dad doing his favorite thing”
• A handprint or footprint keepsake
• A jar of “reasons I love you” notes
• An interview with questions like “What is Dad’s superpower?” — younger children’s answers are priceless
• A joke book they write themselves; see dad jokes for kids for inspiration

Experience gifts

Experiences are often the most memorable gifts because they create time together. Ideas include a fishing trip, a round of mini golf, a museum visit, a cooking class, a drive to a favorite diner, or a backyard campout. Put the date on the calendar when you give it, so it actually happens.

Remember the other dads

Father’s Day can include grandfathers, stepdads, uncles, foster dads, mentors and new dads. It can also be a hard day for people who have lost a father or have complicated relationships. A simple, kind message can mean a lot.

Make the card count

Whatever you give, a specific note beats a generic one. Mention one memory, one thing he taught you and one thing you appreciate about him. A pun is optional — but he’d probably love it. Need help? Our pun guide has you covered.