It’s Dad’s day! Whether your father is well past middle age, or he’s still fairly young, this day in June presents an opportunity for you to show Dad how much he means to you. The good news is, it doesn’t have to cost a ton of money to celebrate Father’s Day in style. After all, you know how much Dad hates it when you waste money!

Here are eight ways to celebrate Father’s Day on a budget. 

1. No Chores Today for Dad

Dads can sometimes have a long list of chores to tackle each weekend, from staining the deck, to changing the lightbulbs in the basement, to seeding the lawn. Let Dad take it easy this one Sunday a year by informing him that he won’t be doing any chores today. Tell him that you (and the kids) will be taking care of all his chores for the day so he can just put his feet up and relax. Let him share his plans for the weekend so you know what’s on his to-do list, and then have him kick back and take a good nap while you cover his chores.

2. Try Out Dad’s Favorite Hobby

Dad’s always into something. Why not indulge him on his day by trying out his favorite current hobby together? Whether it’s building elaborate train sets, learning to play pickleball or tinkering with cars that haven’t run in years, spend some time doing what Dad loves best – together. He’s sure to appreciate having his favorite people join in while doing his favorite things. You may even pick up a new hobby for yourself along the way.

3. Go Fishing

Who loves spending a morning out on the lake more than Dad? Be the one to initiate this trip, and tell him you’d like to take him fishing this Father’s Day. You take charge of picking up the bait, choosing the waterway and packing his favorite snacks, drinks and sunscreen for the day. 

4. Create a Coupon Book

Get creative this Father’s Day with a coupon book created just for Dad. Fill a scrapbook or a photo album with decorated coupons that Dad can use whenever he pleases. These can include “coupons” for his chosen dinner, a weekend off of chores or even first dibs at the remote on a Friday night. Dad will enjoy using his coupons as he pleases for weeks to come. 

5. Binge-watch Dad’s favorite shows

Every Dad’s got his favorite shows and how often do you watch them along with him? Have the entire family give Dad a chance at manning the screen and join him in his binge-watching fest. Don’t forget to prepare the popcorn and bring Dad’s favorite drink!

6. Bake Some Homemade Treats

Find the way to Dad’s heart this Father’s Day with a fresh batch of homemade baked treats. You can arrange a sampling of homemade baked goods in a basket, choosing Dad’s favorites and wrapping it all up with a pretty bow. Deliver your basket of treats in person and then sit down to enjoy them together with Dad for some delicious quality time. 

7. Build a Memory Book

Pull up some of Dad’s favorite memories in a book of photos and mementos. Label the pictures with the date, time and events being featured and present it to Dad for a shared trip down memory lane on Father’s Day. You can create this on your own by printing out some pictures and cutting and pasting. Alternatively, you can use an online photo service, like Snapfish, to create one for you, using your photos and custom descriptions. Whichever option you choose, the end product is sure to be one Dad will treasure forever. 

8. Host a Barbecue

Invite some of Dad’s friends and family over for a fun and casual barbecue in the backyard. Let Dad run the grill if that’s his thing, but make sure you’re the one who plans and shops for the barbecue. This should be pure fun for Dad!

It’s Father’s Day, and that means it’s time to make Dad know he’s special. There’s no need to blow a boatload of money, though. Use our tips to celebrate Father’s Day on a budget that would make Dad proud.  

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