There’s a reason they have a whole category of jokes named after them. We’re not sure what that reason is, but dads have certainly earned the right to be in a class of their own.
What your father probably wants is a nap, so make sure he gets that before and after (but definitely not during) these dad-worthy gift ideas.
Rock the District | Fan Park @ ICE District
Make a weekend of it. Classic rock icons are hitting the ICE District Fan Park (you know, that big, outdoor party venue where the Playoffs watch parties were?). The lineup includes acts like Glass Tiger, Loverboy and April Wine. Get him tix for the whole weekend or take him on Father’s Day, June 18.
Props to Pops | CRAFT Beer Market
Dad likes to brunch? CRAFT is serving up favourites for a reasonable price. Get full on fried chicken & waffles, eggs benny a full dessert station and more. $34.95 ($14.95 for the kiddos).
3Quest Scavenger Hunt | Starting at Churchill Square
Geek out with dad in the best way possible. Explore the city on a scavenger hunt using an app to solve puzzles and complete quests. Perfect for scratching dad’s competitive itch.
Hotel Mira | Starlite Room
Dad’s a hipster? Get him tickets to this show. Catchy melodies, lyrics that beg to be heard and beats that slap. This show is cool enough for you to go to, too.
BBQ Tower Dinner | Banquet ICE District
Only a tower is big enough to hold all this meat. Make sure you go with your pop because this massive meat melange is priced for two (at least). Book tickets through the site or bypass the fees by purchasing in-store.
Father’s Day Special Menu | Birdog
“Your dad shouldn’t have to choose between Steak and Whiskey on his special day” is the motto for June 18 at Birdog. Get a premium 45 Dry-Aged Alberta Ribeye with Double Oak Sagamore Whiskey Marrow Butter. Ask for the signature cocktail – Bone Marrow Whiskey Sour Signature Cocktail – it’s worth it, and so is he.
Taste of Edmonton | Churchill Square
Sample all the scrumptious flavours of Edmonton restaurants in one place. The festival comes complete with performances, sunshine and amazing eats like mac n’ cheese in an ice cream cone and bubble tea in a light bulb. Ok, the festival isn’t until July 20-30, but you can buy tickets at TIX on the Square. And you can even use your Edmonton Downtown Gift Card to buy them (only at TIX)!
Father’s Day Brunch & BBQ | Central Social Hall
Benny’s & beef & beer & bourbon. Central is bringing special menu deals for brunch lunch and dinner on June 18. Feature cocktails and discounts on fan favourites make the man’s meal memorable.
Call Me Daddy | Evolution Wonderlounge
Dad’s come in all colours. If your dad comes in rainbow, check out the dance party at Evolution. This nighttime dance party is a big gay Father’s Day tradition. Save money at the door and buy tickets in advance.
Father’s Day Paint Brunch | Downtown Farmers Market
Get Dad’s creative juice flowing. It’s like a paint night but during the day at the Downtown Farmers Market, surrounded by natural light. After you finish painting, grab brunch from one of the many vendors at the market.
Lunch at Allen’s | Winspear Centre
The members of this musical powerhouse group have written or sung on a combined total of over 25,000,000 CDs. Stats like that can’t be beat. This intimate stage show includes music, laughter and personal anecdotes.
Win a trip to Formula 1 in Vegas | The Canadian Icehouse
Chill out in the Ice Room where you can sample premium vodkas. The Ice Room is kept at an optimal -35°C to keep the vodkas tasting their best. Groups of up to 6 can go in and they’ll even lend you a coat & mittens. Then, enter to win a spot to watch the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas on November 18!
Father’s Day Special | Gyu-Kaku
At Gyu-Kaku, you get to cook your own meal at your table. It’s fun, tasty, and its state-of-the-art ventilation system means you won’t have all the BBQ smoke in your face. For Father’s Day, get 50% off beer and each dad gets a $10 gift card. Definitely try the scallion sauce.
Sunday Brunch or Prime Rib Dinner | Prestons
Get brunch buffet or a prime rib dinner (or both, who’s counting?) for only $35. The brunch buffet is available 11 AM – 2 PM and includes lunch and breakfast favourites. Try the made-to-order crepe station. And if the prime rib’s your thing, don’t sleep on the Yorkshire pudding that’s as big as your head.