One of the most magical experiences of elementary school was the annual holiday shop. The multi-purpose room transformed into a winter wonderland after gifts were laid out on tables stretching across the room. Items like #1 MOM ornaments and BEST DAD cups constituted the majority of the selection. One year, I settled on a cheap measuring tape with #1 DAD plastered on the front, and when Christmas came around, I gave him the gift—but I never actually saw him put the tape to use.
Looking back, I realize that my gift wasn’t exactly practical. Dads who use power tools will likely have their own set and don’t need their child to get a cheap version for them. The same goes for golf club sets or fishing tools. My dad had his own quality measuring tape, and didn’t need his daughter buying one for him. Christmas differs greatly, but these are the types of gifts that one would give for Father’s Day, too. After nearly a decade of searching for the perfect gift, I have come to a single conclusion: Father’s Day is one of the most challenging holidays for gifting—and for gift-givers.
Firstly, most invest the majority of their energy into Mother’s Day. As the first parent-oriented holiday of the year, Mother’s Day generally receives more attention than Father’s Day. In 2024, the total national spending for Mother’s Day was $33.5B, while Father’s Day was only $22.4B, according to the National Retail Federation. In the weeks prior to Mother’s Day, retail stores advertise deals on jewelry, fragrances, and accessories. Before we know it, we exhaust our gift-giving stamina—only to remember that Father’s Day is right around the corner.
Secondly, many Father’s Day gifts are centered around masculinity—think power tools, facial hair, and golf. However, millions of fathers aren’t “masters of the grill” or fishing enthusiasts. Their children may not feel these stereotypes apply to their fathers, but since first-page gifts are marketed around masculinity, shoppers may feel even more lost in the process. When the most upfront route for buying a gift leads to a dead end, what can we do instead? How can we make gift-giving easier for ourselves and create a more meaningful Father’s Day?
The first step is to abandon the “best gifts for Father’s Day” search method and instead shop with specific interests in mind. Searching with intent increases the chances that you’ll hit the jackpot. To start, take some time to think about what your dad enjoys. Does he spend a lot of time in the garden? Is he always looking to add to his bookshelf? By asking yourself these questions, you can narrow your search. Ultimately, your reflection will shine through with a hobby-oriented gift rather than a card with a tie on the front.
For those with dads who appreciate the quirky things in life, the Manly Man Company sells jerky bouquets, personalized meat cards, and meatheart boxes, among other delectable sets. Dads with green thumbs are sure to marvel at self-watering plant IV bags. And dads who love to crack dad jokes (all fathers, really) would certainly delight in comedy club tickets. While on the search, stay on the lookout for hobby combos—gifts that combine two or more interests into a single item. For example, dads who late-night snack while watching sports games will likely adore a baseball cap ice cream bowl or a pickleball paddle snack tray.
If you’re struggling to find a hobby-oriented gift, consider the gift of time together. Many parents spend only a few hours with their kids each day due to busy schedules, so quality time can feel extra meaningful to fathers on their special day. LEGO sets and model-building kits are excellent activities that check the box. For dads with a knack for learning, sign up for a collaborative class, such as a woodworking or coffee-brewing workshop. If your father is a foodie, embark on a food crawl of his favorite foods. However, while brainstorming, keep in mind that you don’t have to break the bank. Set off on an movie marathon or spend a day with him doing his favorite hobbies.
Finding a gift for Father’s Day doesn’t have to be stressful. As consumers, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer variety of options offered to us, but with the right mindset, you can find a gift quickly and also thoughtfully. However, if you find yourself at a dead end, remember that the core meaning of Father’s Day is to express appreciation for the father figure in your life, and gift-giving is just one method to show that you care. Your “gift” can be as simple as spending a quiet day with him at home or crafting a handmade card. Whichever route you end up choosing, make sure that your “gift” feels right to you and reflects your love—ultimately, that’s what the day is all about.
