Father’s Day is fast approaching and with it, an opportunity to show the love for our favorite dads. Here at the Old Mill District, it coincides with the second concert in our BMC Free Summer Sunday Concert Series at Les Schwab Amphitheater, one of the family friendliest events throughout this season of sunshine in Bend, Oregon.

Father’s Day Ideas: Treat dad to some fun things to do

You could always celebrate Father’s Day by extending an invitation and surprising your dad with a picnic, cool beverages and live music — enjoy the Caribbean and Latin sounds from the band Bel Mizik. Translated from the Haitian phrase, beautiful music Bel Mizik create a unique sound reflective of their diverse backgrounds and collective experience.

BMC Free Summer Sunday Concerts

River side dining on the outdoor patio also provides the perfect excuse for a leisurely family meal. Celebrate the man of the hour at your favorite dining establishment, and be sure to save room for a phenomenal beer list, handcrafted cocktails and seasonal desserts.

Father’s Day Gift Ideas: Unique gifts for dad

But what if a date isn’t doable? Here are a few Father’s Day gift ideas that might put a big smile on your dad’s face.

  1. Confluence Fly Shop. Whether a beginner or advanced angler, you cannot go wrong in the expert hands at Confluence. They will point you in the right direction for the right flies, rods and gear needed to catch that legendary Big Ol’ Fish. Would your dad like a skills brush-up or 101 on fishing? Buy a gift certificate for the weekly 101 fly fishing lessons that build confidence and skills in flycasting.

  2. Banana Republic. Simplify your dad’s personal shopping list by finding a few pieces for his summer wardrobe. Summer plaids, tees and ties for the more formal father are all available here. A couple of doors down you’ll also find a great selection of wardrobe basics, always available at the Gap.

  3. You can go really geeky at Simply Mac. Help your pop stay up to speed on the latest tech tools and toys including iPads, great headphones and of the moment accessories. Perhaps he needs a little primer on his favorite gadgets? You can get him set up with one-on-one classes for all his Apple products.

  4. Does your dad live in Bend? If so, chances are that he has his eye on new gear. At REI you’ll find those fancy oars, a new camping stove, hiking socks or any other gifts that encourage his return to the Great Outdoors. Make him promise that the two of you can adventure together one day soon.

  5. Flip Flop Shops. Insist that your dad take a relaxed approach to life. The comfort and ease of flip flips provide a great cue to relax, slow down and enjoy the moment — and maybe even inspire a float trip down the Deschutes River?

  6. For a fashion forward dad, hit up Vanilla Urban Threads and find the latest in casual attire, sunglasses, and hats.

  7. Get grill ready at Ginger’s Kitchenware and Savory Spice Shop. Is your dad a king of the backyard BBQ? Why not give him the secret ingredients and tools of the trade? Trust us, this type of gift can only result in a win-win situation.

  8. Give dad the gift of grooming. At Avalon Salon haircuts include the full Aveda experience with gift certificates available that he will put to good use.

Whatever you do, simply make sure that your dad knows how important he is to you. There are never enough excuses to demonstrate appreciation for the ones we love.

Here’s to a Happy Father’s Day!

*A Note from Old Mill District: This post was originally published in June 2015, but has been updated with current information. Please enjoy.*