It might feel like we just celebrated Mother’s Day, but it’s already time to start thinking about how to celebrate the dads and father figures in our lives for Father’s Day this year. We love celebrating dads by getting them the perfect Father’s Day gift, but sometimes thinking of fun, new activities to do as a family can be hard.
There’s certainly nothing wrong with sticking to your usual festivities—brunch or backyard barbecue—but if you’re looking to change it up this year, we have a few ideas for you. Read on for 5 family-friendly things to do this Father’s Day that you haven’t already thought of.
1. Family Game Day / Tournament
There’s nothing like a little family-friendly competition to celebrate dad on Father’s Day. Whether you’re spending the day with immediate family only or extended family too, you can set up a tournament-style challenge to crown one person or team as champion.
With summer weather here to stay, it’s time to enjoy the outdoors and let the kids burn off some energy with a few of these family-friendly games to get the whole family involved in the fun.
Bocce Ball Game
Kids and adults of all ages can participate in and enjoy a fun game of bocce ball together for Father's Day.
personalization available
Corn Hole Set
A personalized family corn hole set is the perfect Father's Day activity that also doubles as a great Father's Day gift.
Giant Jenga
Another activity that's great of people of all ages to join in on, giant Jenga doubles as a Father's Day gift and activity.
2. Backyard Water Park
Father’s Day is in June, making it the perfect time to set up a backyard waterpark for the whole family to have a day of fun in the sun—just don’t forget to wear sun protective clothing and/or sunscreen. Below we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite water play toys that’ll keep your kids occupied all summer long.
Minni-Minni Pool
A smaller version of Minnidip's classic pool, this option is perfect for littles age 3 and up.
Giant Dinosaur Sprinkler
Surprise dad with this 6 foot dinosaur sprinkler out on the lawn and it'll be sure to add tons of fun for Father's Day.
Splash Pad and Sprinkler
Another summertime must-have, kids will love playing in this splash pad and sprinkler.

Source: @alainakaz
3. Family Art Project
For the creative types, a family art project is the perfect way to spend time together and even make a gift for dad in the process. Go to your local craft store and pick up a big white canvas for the whole family to contribute to or individual canvases for each person to paint their own masterpiece. Don’t forget to grab some paint and brushes, and enjoy a day of art and fun.
Acrylic Paint Set
Made with a non-toxic formula, this acrylic paint kit produces vivid, long-lasting colors that dry fast.
4. Trip to the Zoo
For an exciting and memorable Father’s Day for everyone, take a trip to the zoo. Kids of all ages will enjoy spending time seeing and learning about different animals. Many zoos offer special Father’s Day activities or celebrations, so check the website in advance to see what fun events your family might want to join in on.
5. Movie Night
For a more relaxed Father’s Day celebration, opt for a movie night complete with popcorn, snacks, and family favorite movies. For an extra special touch, you could even gift Dad with an at-home movie projector screen, perfect for setting up somewhere fun and different, whether it’s outdoors or indoors. And, if you don’t already have a Disney+ subscription, trust us on this one: Get it. You won’t regret it.
Projector With 100 Inch Screen
This bestselling portable video projector makes for a fun Father's Day gift and family activity wrapped in one.
Month or Year Long Disney+ Subscription
A Disney+ subscription is a win for the whole family... trust us on this one.
This article was originally published in June 2021 and has been updated for timeliness.