This Father’s Day, go beyond the classic necktie and tee shirt—craft memorable experiences tailored to him. Whether your dad is a sports fanatic, a nature lover, or a hands-on hobbyist, Calgary has a rich lineup of ideas to make June 15 truly special.
For the Nature-Loving Dad
1. Calgary Zoo Father’s Day Brunch & Exploration
Start the day with a delightful brunch at the Wilder Institute Café, complete with kids' crafts, then enjoy the wildlife trails together. It’s a fun, educational outing that combines good food with fresh air. calgary.ca
2. Heritage Park Brunch + Steamboat Ride
Enjoy Victorian-era charm at Heritage Park’s Father’s Day brunch (seatings at 9:30 AM & 10:30 AM), followed by rides on the steam train or the S.S. Moyie around Glenmore Reservoir. heritagepark.ca
3. Shirley’s Greenhouse Visit Nearby
Head out to Didsbury’s Shirley’s Greenhouse Farm Stand (open Saturdays) for a greenhouse tour, vegetable picking, and a picnic lunch among the blooms—an outdoor escape just a short drive from Calgary.
For the Gearhead & History Dad
4. Wings & Wheels at The Hangar Flight Museum
On June 14–15, enjoy vintage aircraft up close, climb into cockpits (they provide bump caps/gloves), and admire classic cars on display. Dads get free admission with a paying child. familyfuncanada.com
5. Military Museums Adventure
Explore tanks, historical military vehicles, weapon displays, and interactive storytelling. Perfect for a dad who appreciates history and engineering. familyfuncanada.com
For the Culture & Music Dad
6. Calgary Chinese Orchestra Concert – June 15
Enjoy an afternoon of traditional Chinese orchestral music—an elegant, cross-cultural experience in Calgary’s music scene. eventbrite.com
7. Sled Island Music & Arts Festival (June 18–22)
If your dad is into indie music, comedy, art, film, or street vibes, explore curated events across downtown venues. Snag day-passes or catch a free show.
8. YYC Jazz Summer Festival (June 23–29)
Though it overlaps slightly, consider surprising Dad with a mellow evening at jazz performances—check festival schedule for sets on June 15.
For the Active & Social Dad
9. Calgary Surge Basketball Game (June 15)
Cheer on the home team at WinSport Event Centre—an energetic, fast-paced CEBL game is a great group outing with friends or family. todocanada.ca
10. Calgary Stampeders Football Game
If football is more his speed, look ahead to the Stampeders at McMahon Stadium; the next home CFL game is June 21, but season energy is in full swing. eventbrite.com
For the Chill & Social Dad
11. Patio Crawl with the Crew
Hit up Calgary’s top patios (Barbarella, Clive Burger, Lonely Mouth, Lulu Bar) for craft cocktails or burgers. Great for a relaxed Father’s Day lunch or dinner. todocanada.ca
12. Farmers’ Market Fun
Visit Calgary Farmers’ Market locations (South/West) for a laid-back morning—kids’ crafts, food samples, giveaways just for dads. familyfuncanada.com
For the DIY & Backyard Dad
13. Backyard BBQ + Science at TELUS Spark
Head to TELUS Spark on June 15 for a science-themed BBQ—live demos, outdoor lawn games, and interactive fun perfect for the curious DIY dad. familyfuncanada.com
14. Home-Based Grill Challenge
Stay in and host a friendly “Dad Grill-Off”: source local Alberta steaks or veggie kabobs, experiment with homemade rubs, and close with lawn games or cornhole in the yard.
For the Family & Craft Dad
15. Paint-by-Nature Watercolour Session
Spend a peaceful morning at The Confluence Historic Site Park on June 14 painting outdoors, then enjoy a family picnic in the gardens. todocanada.ca
16. Pinnovate DIY Studios Afternoon
Create art together—choose splatter painting, pour painting, or build a stuffed toy—an interactive experience that becomes a keepsake. todocanada.ca
For the Adventure & Sports Dad
17. Lakeside Line Dancing in Mahogany (June 14)
Get moving at this country-themed Father’s Day line dance event by the lake—a fun, light-hearted way to spend the evening.
18. Hiking the Bow River Pathway
Pack snacks and hit the trails—discover spots near Bowness or Edworthy Park. End with a riverside picnic and casual campfire stories at home.
To make the day truly special, plan ahead—some of the best events like the zoo brunch, Pinnovate, or Wings & Wheels need tickets and can fill up fast.
If you’ve got a mix of ages or interests, split the day up: maybe a fun morning with crafts or brunch, an afternoon game or hike, and a relaxed evening with a BBQ or dancing under the lights.
Celebrating at home? Add a few simple touches—backyard lights, his favourite music, or even bake a cake based on his go-to album (yes, really!).
Hand out a few disposable or instant cameras for fun family photos—those candid shots are always the best.And don’t forget a backup plan in case the weather turns. A cozy movie night or board game inside can still feel like a win. Father’s Day doesn’t need to be fancy—it just needs to feel like him. Keep it personal, keep it light, and enjoy the day together.