Make his day extra special this year.
When was the last time you gave Dad a special day that was tailored to his interests? The third Sunday in June is a perfect opportunity to do an activity dad would love because it’s Father’s Day! Every father has their own unique way to unwind, and Haldimand County can provide a day that your dad deserves whether it’s heart-thumping adventure or relaxation and tranquility. Here are a few suggestions to inspire you to choose something your father will love!
The Music Lover
Does your dad have a record collection or is he a music fan?
One great Father’s Day activity would be visiting Concession Road Brewing Company in Jarvis! Every Saturday they feature live local music from a different amazing artist. You can find a schedule of events and musicians on their website! Along with the vibrant sounds of a local musician, Dad can sample some delicious craft brews too.
Pick up Dad’s favourite oldies on vinyl from Second Chance Records, a great gift Dad will appreciate for years to come. This Caledonia-based store focuses on the sale and purchase of new and previously enjoyed music-related media. They also carry musical instruments.
The Fisherman
If your dad loves the sound of the waves as they lap against his boat, and the thrill of hooking a big one, look no further than Haldimand’s various fishing spots! Haldimand County boasts over 83 km of Lake Erie shoreline. One great fishing spot on Lake Erie is Nanicoke Harbour, which is a great location for catching perch and walleye. Whether you are lucky or not Hoover’s Marina and Wharfside Restaurant is the perfect spot to grab fish and chips and watch the boats come in. If you go fishing at Nanticoke Harbour, you can launch your boat directly from Hoover’s Marina.
Or try another great location along the Grand River, which is home to over 80 species of fish. Launch your boat at Harrison Landing and spend some quality time with Dad. It is a great location to catch perch! If you need more information about fishing check out Haldimand County’s Fishing Spots Map. Even if you don’t catch any fish, remember that “a bad day of fishing is better than a good day at work”!
Outfit dad with all the bait and tackle he will need for his next fishing experience. Grand River Outdoors has you covered. Their Dunnville store, located next to the Grand River is a local outdoor sporting goods store that carries goods for fishing and hunting, including live bait, and work wear.
Or book a fishing charter to maximize your enjoyment on the water. Chartering is a stress-free experience and catered to both skilled fisherman, or those looking to enhance their skills. One such operator is Hall’em In Fishing Charters. They have teamed up with several local restaurants that will cook your catch upon return to the marina making it a full day of fun for Dad. Check out all the Haldimand County Fishing Operators.
The Stressed Dad
Has Dad been under a lot of pressure lately at work? Or maybe he complains about his back aching? Why not book a spa or wellness appointment for a relaxing Father’s Day surprise? Haldimand boasts many places to get pampered, relax, and treat dad.
One such place is The Cabin Wellness Clinic which offers many services that help your father feel his best. The Cabin offers massage therapy that can address specific needs, and give your Dad relief from muscle tension and stress, leaving him feeling refreshed. Dad will also enjoy the chiropractic services to help relieve pain and improve mobility so he’s ready for anything.
Check out all the wellness operators including yoga, spas, massages, and more.
The Cyclist
If Dad loves bike rides, take him for an adventure on one of Haldimand County’s bike routes. Take Dad on the River Route, also known as the Blue Route, with backdrops of the picturesque Grand River and Lake Erie waterfronts. You’ll go through Cayuga and Dunnville which allows you to make stops to recharge. Fuel up with food from the Country Chip Wagon, or try a smoothie and sandwich at the Carolinian Café and Eatery. Or try other cycling options such as the Lake Erie River Run, The Lowbanks Route, and the Lakeview Tour. Check out all the Haldimand Cycling Routes and have fun.
Don’t have a bike, rent one from the friendly folks at Dixon Cycle in Caledonia. Or sign him up for the Dunnville Grand Tour a recreational bicycle tour that takes place every year on the third weekend of August.
The Chef
Does your dad love to cook? By taking a cooking lesson from Chef Rabi at Rabi’s Kitchen in Caledonia, your dad can learn how to cook tradition Indian food. Chef Rabbi will guide him in making East Indian cuisine, such as butter chicken, chana masala, and palak paneer. Chef Rabi also shares her knowledge of Haldimand’s home grown produce and how they can be used in Indian Food. After the food is prepared, your dad will get to enjoy delightful food masterpiece created with his two hands. He even will be able to share his newly acquired knowledge and be able to cook food for the rest of the family! This immersive experience gives your father a lesson in the culinary arts that gives a lifetime of enjoyment. To book a class with Rabi, visit her website to book.
The Car Lover
Treat your car enthusiast father to the Nitro National Weekend at Toronto Motorsports Park if he has a need for speed. Known to be Canada’s biggest Drag Race, it is sure to be an experience your Dad will remember. From the adrenaline-pumping drag races to the roar of the engines and the smell of burning rubber, this event is perfect for any dad who loves the thrill of speed. This three-day event showcases a variety of cars such as jet dragsters, top fuel dragsters, nitro funny cars, and more! You can take your Dad for one day, or for all three to get the full experience. If you want to get away from home and be fully immersed in the event, you can purchase a weekend pass with camping and bring your trailer, motorhome, or tent.
Or go all in and let Dad put the pedal to the metal with Toronto Motorsports Park’s Exotic Dream Car Experience where Dad gets to drive a Porsche, Ferrari, or Lamborghini on a closed road track.
Make Memories with Dad!
Every dad is unique, which means that every activity should be tailored to his interests to give him the best Father’s Day. These experiences will show him that you care about him and want to have an exciting day that you selected just for him. You don’t have to stray from Haldimand County to have a fantastic day full of fun!
