A Guide to Father’s Day in New York City
Whether they’re the father of your children, your own father or someone who’s played a role in making you who you are today, fathers deserve a little recognition too. This year, the big day falls on June 21.
In New York City, it can be extra special. If you’re a local looking for a way to celebrate or just visiting around Father’s Day, your options are plentiful. Look at the guide below, identify the father in your life’s “type” and choose an activity and gift accordingly. No reason to stress this Father’s Day, we’ve got you covered.
The Sports Fan
For sports fans, New York City is a Mecca of sorts. Two of the highlights in June include the Mets and the Yankees. Whether he’s a fan or not, these historic teams offer an opportunity to watch sports history brought to life.
The Yankees play a series at home against Detroit June 19-21 and against Philadelphia the 22-24. Tickets start around $17. While the Mets are away over Father’s Day, they play home series against Atlanta June 12-14 and Cincinnati the 26-28; no reason not to celebrate early or a little late. Make it a family day event or purchase tickets for Dad to go enjoy with some friends. Indulge with hot dogs and enjoy a day in the sun with America’s favorite past time.
Gifts for sports fans are easy to find; look online for historic memorabilia auctions, check out his favorite team’s website or give him a series of tickets to enjoy throughout the year.
The Music Lover
Fortunately, many musical acts make frequent stops in New York City; June is filled with concerts around Father’s Day that might fit the bill. A few options this year include:
- Opera in the Park, June 15-30, The Metropolitan Opera and other locations
- Barry Manilow, June 17, Barclays Center
- Billy Joel, June 20, Madison Square Garden
- Street Music Festival, June 21, throughout all five boroughs
- New Kids on the Block, TLC & Nelly, June 21-22, Madison Square Garden
- Bette Midler, June 25-26, Madison Square Garden
- Natalie Cole, June 28, The Town Hall
- Bette Midler, June 29, Barclays Center
- Imagine Dragons, June 29, Prudential Center
- Rush, June 29, Madison Square Garden
For gifts, think outside of the box this year. Look at uncommon music gifts online for the more quirky musician, invest in back stage passes if one of his favorite acts is nearby or start up that record collection he’s been talking about with a few of his favorites.
The Food and Drink Aficionado
For food and drink lovers, there’s no reason to leave the city limits. June is filled with street festivals, wine and liquor tastings and other events sure to strike a positive note. Most are family friendly, filled with arts, crafts, music and food. Make a day of it and enjoy a break from the standard customs you’re used to. Some events to consider include:
- Taste of Times Square, June 1, Times Square
- Staten Island Irish Fair, June 13-14, Staten Island
- Drums Along the Hudson, Native American Festival, June 14, Inwood Hill Park
- New Orleans-Style Crawfish Festival, June 20, Governor’s Island Beach Club
- Taste Asia, June 26-27, Times Square
- Beer Fields, June 27, Pennysaver Ampitheater
As far as gifts for foodies and beer or other drink lovers, the options are endless. Consider a beer or wine of the month club membership, a [cheese of the month](http://www.amazingclubs.com/cheese.html?__utma=1.2018139672.1432207941.1432207941.1432207941.1&__utmb=1.1.10.1432207941&__utmc=1&__utmx=-&__utmz=1.1432207941.1.1.utmcsr=google|utmccn=(organic%29|utmcmd=organic|utmctr=(not%20provided%29&__utmv=-&__utmk=10900403)membership, an at-home brewing kit or the latest kitchen gadget he’s been hinting at.
The Romantic
While some men hate to admit it, they were born for romance. If you’ve got one of these, you’ve lucked out. Show him how much he means by playing to his romantic side this Father’s Day. Events and things to do that might fit the bill include:
- A day or night on Broadway. Check out a classic or something new. Look for discount matinee options the day of and practice spontaneity.
- A picnic in the park. Perfect for the whole family, Central Park and other New York City parks offer a break from the busyness of daily life, bring a picnic and enjoy.
Play to his sensitive side to find the perfect gift. What about a wedding band upgrade, a photo collage for his desk, new family photos or a craft from the kids? A little sentimental sentiment can go a long way.
Make this Father’s Day the best yet by celebrating New York City style with some of the events and options listed above.
