As much as your dad enjoys a shiny new tie or an annual mini-golf outing, it might be time to retire the typical Father's Day activities. From sipping on some bourbon to racing around town, here are a few foolproof ideas for pleasing your pops in D.C. this weekend.
1. A Beer and Barbecue Night
What screams fun more than beer and barbecue? Take Dad to Atlas Brew Works on Saturday for Brewskies and BBQ, an evening of live jazz, barbecue from Mike's Smokehouse -- and, of course, tastings of local craft beer, including a growler of beer. Tickets are $60 for the event and proceeds will benefit D.C. veterans.
2. Cheers to Dad, With Whiskey
Bring your favorite father along to try out a selection of scotch, bourbon and rye at Paul's Wine and Spirits for a free whiskey tasting this weekend. Can it get more manly? The event is free, but you must RSVP to attend.
3. Don't Just Take Him to Breakfast or Lunch...
Yes, take him to a Father's Day brunch! Why not let Dad enjoy an all-you-can eat meal filled with everything from fried chicken to buttermilk biscuits on his special day?
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Try spending Sunday morning at the Mansion on O Street Museum for a brunch featuring an omelet and waffle bar, plus champagne and a self-guided tour of nearly 100 rooms and 70 secret doors building. You can also go on a treasure hunt.The event price starts at $49.50 and the brunch begins at 11 a.m.
You could also get the family together for the Father's Day Gospel Brunch at the Hamilton downtown. Along with a slew of food options, the morning features a concert by the Gospel Persuaders. Tickets start at $50 and the doors open at 10 a.m.
4. Run an 8K or 5K with Dad
Put the food aside for a moment and lace up for a run at the fifth annual Father's Day 8K Sunday at 6:30 p.m. The nearly five-mile out-and-back route stretches along the C&O Canal Towpath. Awards will be given to the top finishers, including the top father/son and father/daughter teams. Registration is $35 before Sunday and $40 on race day.
If a shorter distance suits your dad's style, check out the Run with Dad 5K Sunday at 8 a.m. at South Lakes High School in Reston. There's also a one-mile fun run following the 5K. You can register online for $35 until June 13 or register on race day for $40.
5. Catch an Outdoor Movie
Whether it's a old classic or an animated favorite, Father's Day is a grand occasion to snuggle up with the family and enjoy a movie under the stars. Here's a couple few dad-friendly outdoor movies in the area this weekend:
- Friday: "Ghostbusters" at Lovetsville Movies on the Green or "My Date With the President's Daughter" at Golden Cinema in Farragut Square
- Sunday: "Brave" at Columbia's Lakefront Summer Festival
6. Meet the Ultimate Dad
Cap off the father-centered weekend with a visit to Mount Vernon, home of the father of our county, George Washington.
The "Father to the First Family" program has shows at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. on the bowling green lawn in front of Mount Vernon. The event is included in general daytime admission, which is $17 for adults and $8 for children ages 6-11.
