Dads. They are so easy to please. Yet so hard to buy for.

FathersDayZipperOk, this is a huge generalization, but you can guarantee that my husband is not spending this week planning how to spend the perfect Father’s Day (like I may have been doing a month ago.) While I am sure he will be more than happy with a crafty card and hugs from the kids, it is always fun to surprise him with something unique to say thank you for being so awesome. So here are some Toronto-inspired ideas to toast your favourite father figure(s).

Send him out with the guys – The annual Beach BBQ and Brews is marriage made in dude heaven — grilling demos, saucy food, live music, plus a super selection of craft beer. If he’s into spending it with the family, there is a children’s area where dads end up having more fun than the kids. If your guy is into music, send (or join) him for some Father’s Day listening at the TD International Jazz Fest (June 18-29) or NXNE (June 17-21).

Wallets by Jillians Bare Madness

Wallets by Jillians Bare Madness

Fashion: I have yet to meet a man who loves to shop. So use this day to help him expand and add some pizzazz to his wardrobe. I know, nothing screams father’s day more than a tie but you can take it up a notch and then some with these made-in-Toronto bow ties and pocket squares from VIVID Clothing. Now toes, fun socks are an inexpensive way to add some personality. Huely – like art for the feet – is created by a group of Canadian street artists. If you want to shop in person, stop by floorplaysocks. Finally, you can tell a lot about a guy by his wallet. So get him to show off his hood (or favourite place to travel) with these hand-drawn maps printed on wallets from JilliansBareMadness.

More eat & drink – Into whisky? The Toronto-based Whisky Spice makes mustard with beer, wine and spirits. Into beer? Get him started with a beer making kit from Brew North. Into Brunch or Dinner? Make a reservation (because you know he won’t) to try out the newly-opened Dirty Bird Chicken & Waffles in Kensington Market, Texas-style BBQ at Triple A Bar on Adelaide at Jarvis or fried pizza at Mr. Ciao in Chinatown East.

Mustards by Whisky Spice

Mustards by Whisky Spice

Grooming – Few men would admit to having any spa-like treatment, but when you call it “Foot Detailing” at Mankind Grooming (three locations) or “The Camouflage” at Man Cave Barbers (Bloor & Bathurst), he may consider it. If he wants to keep the services in house, then it’s up to you to pick up some products at MenEssentials on the Danforth.

Play – We’re big fans of the gift of experience and getting out for a game is often a sure bet. Yah, there is always the Jays and TFC, but what about some lesser-known but action-packed sporting events? We suggest the Toronto RUSH, the city’s Pro Ultimate Frisbee or tickets for the upcoming Pan Am Games (how ‘bout Water Polo?) and Parapan Am Games (say, Wheel Chair Rugby?) For those dads in the “kid-at-heart” category, consider a ticket to one of the adult-only Lego events at Legoland in Vaughan or send him for an afternoon with Spiderman at the Toronto Zoo.

Big high fives and hugs to all the dads out there!