Father’s Day is only a few days away — eek, when did that happen?! And if you’re thinking about getting your dad a new tie or a pair of socks for the 8th year in a row, maybe now is the time to break that tradition. I’ve rounded up some gifts that can align with their taste, and reduce waste (plus, none of them include socks — you’re welcome).
For the dad who likes to cook…
Let’s face it: Nothing says “I Love You” like a good meal. If you’re able to visit your dad this Sunday, bring over the ingredients to make his favorite dish together, or try something entirely new! Each year, my dad and the rest of my family have a pizza party. My stepmother makes pizza dough, and I bring over all of the toppings. It’s become one of my favorite days of the year! Need recipe inspiration? See one of my favorites here. If you’re unable to see your dad in person, you can always coordinate a virtual happy hour (bonus points if you send your dad their favorite drink!) or cook dinner together over Zoom!
For the outdoorsy dad…
Rather than getting your dad more outdoor doohickies and thingamajigs to sit in the garage, plant trees in their name! There are non-profit organizations (I personally like One Tree Planted) that plant trees for a small donation. Plus, trees help clean the air we breathe, filter the water we drink, and provide habitat to over 80% of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity — so this is truly a gift that keeps on giving. Want to take it a step further? Plant a tree together! I got my dad a tree years ago with heart-shaped leaves that we planted in the front yard. We’ve watched it grow year over year and it always makes us so happy!
For the dad who’s looking to learn something new…
Has your dad been nostalgic about their garage band days, but forgotten how to play the guitar (or maybe never reeeally learned)? Maybe dad’s been talking about learning Italian since watching The Godfather one too many times? Or maybe dad’s still trying to figure out what all of those camera dials even mean? Launch dad into their new hobby by gifting them a subscription to an online course (some good options: Skillshare, Rosetta Stone, General Assembly, or CreativeLive). You can even do it with them and compete over who has the sharper mind! Nothing is better than some healthy competition, non?
For the dad who loves the gym…
If your dad loves to break a sweat (or maybe they’re just looking for a little more namaste in life), schedule time to stream a fun workout or yoga class together! Here are some to try: The Salt Drop, [solidcore], Yoga to the People, Modo Yoga, or Ryan Heffington’s Live dance classes. Going for a bike ride is always a great option as well! PS, if all of dad’s gym clothes are pit stained and no longer gym-ready, consider naturally dying old white shirts to add a spin to them, embroidering one or two to make them feel new, or invest in a circular shirt like one from ForDays!
For the dad who’s ready to make the world less trashy…
It’s never too late to teach dad some new, zero-waste tricks — and the Package Free Zero Waste Starter Kit or the Package Free Father’s Day Shave Kit is the perfect place to start. Looking for more inspiration? Package Free has put together kits for every father figure in your life. Shop all here (Please note: These will arrive after 6/21).
PS. Need help with gift wrapping? Take a look at my Zero Waste Gift Wrapping Guide.
Gifting anything creative this year? I’d love to hear in the comments!
