*Warning: this Father’s Day gift idea might prevent you from ever getting him anything else as a present.
Two years ago, I was desperately looking for the best Father’s Day gift. Not an easy task! I wanted something special for my husband − a loving and funny dad that is always there for our kids − so I decided to fill his life with unforgettable moments. It’s easier than it sounds! Let me explain.
Last Minute Gift Idea for Father’s Day
Are you tired of looking on the internet to find the perfect gift? Watches, barbecue tools, “Best dad” coffee mugs… I wanted something else.
I admit that I got my genius idea under pressure, Father’s Day was just around the corner. My partner already has everything he needs and I had no inspiration. But one thing we are always lacking is quality time. Our lives often resemble a crazy race between work, errands and the kids’ activities. So that was it! I was going to offer him some time together, away from the usual routine.
My Original Gift Concept
It’s simple. I chose 12 activities. I wrote them on cute papers that I then folded. So it makes a kind of advent calendar. My husband opens one paper on the first day of each month to find out the surprise. After that, we only have to decide on a date and enjoy the activity.
I originally thought of this as a gift for the man in my life, but this concept can apply to many other situations. For example, it could be offered from the kids to their dad or it could be a great way to spend more time with your own father.
Here is an example of what it can look like: go to the movies in January, skate on the Rideau Canal in February, escape at the Nordik Spa Village in March, discover a new trail in the Gatineau Park in April, and so on.
Benefits of this experience-style gift for Father’s Day:
Fosters local economy
Helps bonding
Unveils unsuspected regional treasures
Budget-friendly (many activities are free)
Breaks weekly routine
Father’s Day Brunch
I gave him my original gift at the traditional Father’s Day brunch. He was really surprised and couldn’t wait until July 1st to unfold the first paper and find out what the first activity was!
12 Months of Surprises and Experiences
I quickly became aware that, while it was thought up for him, this Father’s Day gift was also for me. It gave us back so much more than a present bought in a store would have.
Let’s Go Out!
First of all, these papers force us to go out. They create a good kind of obligation. It’s a commitment to our well-being.
For example, if it is the end of the month and we are tired after a long day of work, we wouldn’t usually go out. But, if we still have to accomplish the monthly activity, we shake it off and do it. It always brings renewed energy.
An Occasion for Connection
Sometimes, the activity requires a bit of planning. For example, if the August surprise is to have a picnic by a lake, we need to take some time together to look at the options. Which lake? When? What are we bringing? It already makes us closer.
Once there, we enjoy this special moment, we talk and we discuss the experience. The outing becomes a precious couple’s memory we can enjoy for years to come.
Mistakes Are Okay
It’s not always perfect. I remember booking an Indian cooking class that ended up being a community kitchen workshop. We were ready to learn how to make the perfect butter chicken. Instead, we stood around a huge counter and chatted with our neighbours while vaguely following a very easy recipe found on a Canadian website. Not what we had expected, but we laughed and had a lot of fun.
Inspiration Guide for Experience-Style Gift Ideas
Here are some gift ideas for all types of dads: the athletic, the traveller, the foodie, the overworked, the nature lover … there is something for everyone, every season and every budget.
SO GOURMET
Outside meals
Find a nice patio or a place that hosts garden parties to enjoy good food and nature.
Culinary pleasure
Celebrate local gastronomy with a menu from field to table at Le Resto, Nordik Spa Village.
A new microbrewery or ice-cream parlour
It’s always fun to find local treasures and explore new tastes.
GAMES AND LAUGHTER
Pool challenge
Why not challenge your partner in a friendly pool tournament in one of the region’s bars?
Board game frenzy
Find a bistro with a board game discovery concept and have an evening of fun eating good food and playing.
Improv night
Some pubs and universities organize improvisation nights that are as good as stand-up comedy shows.
CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Free outdoor concert
Many cities offer a calendar full of free concerts and events to showcase local artists.
Movie theatre
A classic that never gets old.
Museum exhibit
Enjoy an exhibit in one of the many Capital Region’s museums. From dinosaurs to military history or impressionist paintings.
ACTIVE MOMENTS
Full moon hike
Adventure and romance guaranteed with a nice walk in the forest under the full moon.
Cabin chocolate fondue
It’s the perfect reward after reaching a cabin on foot, bike, skis or snowshoes.
In or out of the water
Try paddle boarding or pedalo, swim in a local lake or experience weightlessness in the Kalla saltwater bath.
DISCOVERY
Romantic sunset
Find a new place to enjoy the sunset. Do you prefer a waterfront setting or a view over the city?
Workshops
You could find your partner’s next hobby by trying different introductory workshops: woodworking, fly-fishing, beekeeping, cooking, ukulele. There’s something for everyone!
Picnic by the water
Discover a new place by the water to have a delicious outdoor meal. (We really liked Jacques-Cartier Street along the Gatineau and Outaouais Rivers)
WELL-BEING
Body care
When you need a moment of peace, choose from the many options of the Nordik Spa Village, such as a massage in nature or detoxifying foot care.
Yoga in nature
Unroll your mats outside together to breathe in fresh air and connect with nature.
Guided meditation or Aufguss
Nordik Spa Village offers guided meditations and Aufguss* that are included with the reservation.
*an amazing sauna ritual with animation
Conclusion, the best gift is an experience (or many)
We made so many discoveries throughout the year. Plus, we finally have some time to reconnect, as individuals and as a couple. For sure, we are better parents for it and we make a stronger team.
After such a gift, he is sure to ask for the same thing next Father’s Day!
