1. Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Perth is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, making it easy to plan a day out without spending a cent. Pack a picnic and head to one of Perth’s many parks or beaches. Kings Park offers spectacular views of the city and Swan River, with plenty of space for a family picnic. Alternatively, spend the day at Cottesloe Beach, where you can soak up the sun, play beach cricket, and enjoy a homemade lunch by the ocean.
Tip: To make it extra special, bring along some of Dad’s favourite snacks and a thermos of coffee. Don’t forget to pack a Frisbee or a football for some fun family games.
2. Create a DIY Father’s Day Gift
Nothing says “I love you” quite like a homemade gift. Get the kids involved in creating something unique that Dad will treasure. Here are a few ideas:
- Personalised Photo Frame: Use a plain frame and decorate it with shells collected from a recent beach trip, or paint it in Dad’s favourite colours. Add a special family photo for a personal touch.
- Handmade Card: A heartfelt message from the kids can be one of the most cherished gifts. Encourage them to write a note about why they love their dad and draw some of their favourite family memories.
- Coupon Book: Create a booklet of “coupons” for activities like washing the car, making breakfast in bed, or a free movie night at home.
Tip: For materials, check out local craft stores like Riot Art & Craft in Subiaco, or even the art and stationery sections of your local Kmart or Big W.
3. Host a Family BBQ at Home
Who says you need to go to a fancy restaurant to celebrate Father’s Day? Hosting a BBQ at home can be just as special—and much more affordable. Fire up the grill in your backyard or local park, and enjoy a relaxed day with family.
You can make it even more memorable by:
- Letting Dad Choose the Menu: Whether it’s his favourite steak, a delicious burger, or some sausages, make sure the BBQ features all of Dad’s favourite foods.
- Adding a Fun Twist: Try something new like grilling some local seafood or creating a DIY burger station where everyone can build their own.
Tip: Visit local markets such as the Subi Farmers Market or Perth City Farm for fresh, locally sourced produce at reasonable prices.
4. Plan a DIY Movie Night
If your dad is a movie buff, a DIY movie night could be the perfect way to spend Father’s Day evening. Set up a cosy movie-watching area in the living room or even outdoors under the stars if the weather permits.
For a successful movie night:
- Choose Dad’s Favourite Films: Let him pick a couple of his favourite movies, or surprise him with a selection of classic dad films.
- Prepare Some Snacks: Popcorn, homemade nachos, or even some chocolate treats can make the night extra special. You could also prepare a cheese board with a selection of local cheeses from places like The Cheese Barrel in Swan Valley.
Tip: If you have access to a projector, consider setting up an outdoor cinema in the backyard. All you need is a white sheet and some comfy seating!
5. Explore Perth’s Free Attractions
Perth is home to a variety of free attractions that are perfect for a family outing on Father’s Day. Here are a few to consider:
- Explore the Art Gallery of Western Australia: Spend the day wandering through the gallery’s collections, and maybe even spark some interesting conversations about the art.
- Visit Fremantle Markets: While browsing through the markets is free, you might find something small that’s perfect for Dad. Even if you’re just window shopping, the atmosphere at Fremantle Markets is always lively and enjoyable.
- Take a Hike: Perth’s many hiking trails offer a great way to bond while getting some exercise. Consider taking Dad on a walk through the beautiful Bold Park, or head to the Zig Zag Scenic Drive for some breathtaking views.
Tip: If Dad enjoys photography, bring along a camera or smartphone to capture the day’s adventures. You could even turn it into a mini-photo challenge!
6. Write a Heartfelt Letter
Sometimes, the most meaningful gifts don’t cost a thing. Encourage everyone in the family to write a letter to Dad, sharing what they appreciate about him and their favourite memories together. This simple gesture can be incredibly touching and is something Dad can keep and look back on for years to come.
Tip: Present the letters in a handmade booklet or box. You can even include some drawings or photos to make it extra special.
Making Father’s Day Special Without the Splurge
Father’s Day is all about showing appreciation and spending quality time together, and these activities prove that you don’t need to spend a lot to make the day memorable. Whether you’re enjoying Perth’s natural beauty, creating something homemade, or simply spending time together at home, what matters most is the thought and effort you put into making the day special for Dad.
Remember, the best gifts are often the simplest ones—the moments shared, the laughs, and the memories made. So, this Father’s Day, focus on creating those priceless memories that Dad will cherish forever.
Happy Father’s Day to all the amazing dads and father figures out there from the team at Cherished Cherubs!
