A Summer-Inspired Father’s Day Gift Idea (Free Printable Too!)

Whoa! We’re at the end of another school year! While the time flew by, I know many of us are ready for a more relaxed schedule, backyard BBQs, and some pool time. The slower pace opens up opportunities to enjoy more outdoor activities and explore creative outlets. We’re also celebrating Dads this month! And I’ve got a Father’s Day gift idea that will remind him of how loved and appreciated he is.

Father’s Day falls on the official first day of summer (Summer Solstice) this year. It’s a rare occurrence, so I used that as inspiration for this gift idea and created something fun and thoughtful.

The theme: Dad’s Perfect Picnic! 

Not an actual picnic, but a one-of-a-kind ‘picnic’ where, for each detail, we’re PICking a NICe surprise for Dad! We’ll get creative with the specifics too: Where, When, and What To Bring.

It’s a unique and playful way to celebrate Dad well and acknowledge both the season and his special day. And it’s full of thoughtful gestures and gifts he’ll love. 

Let’s start with the actual invitation, giving Dad a preview to pique his curiosity. I created one for you—feel free to download and print.

Now, for the gift details—the specifics!

dad’s perfect picnic gift idea

Part 1 // Where: Down Memory Lane

Dad will certainly enjoy a trip down memory lane with one of these sentimental gifts.

Gift options:

• Have Dad take a trip back to some of your favorite places as a family with a custom Milestones Map from Custom Family Gifts.

• Recreate a childhood photo and frame it with the original; or have Letterfest create a unique portrait from a special family photograph.

• Have your child redraw artwork from childhood for a lovely reminder of a special keepsake and a proud moment seeing their growth.

dad’s perfect picnic gift idea

Part 2 // When: Storytime (or Happy Hour)

Whether a Dad of young kids, older ones, or a Granddad, he’ll have a good laugh or be touched by the words written or spoken of him.

Gift options:

• A gift from the littles: Letterfest has the cutest personalized books that I know Dad will enjoy.

• A gift from older kids: Have your child/children record themselves sharing favorite memories of their time with Dad as a child and play for Dad on Father’s Day. Also, Wonderbly’s Book Of Everyone Dad is a fun personalized book that includes really cool facts from his year of birth.

dad’s perfect picnic gift idea

Part 3 // What To Bring: Basket Of Goodies; “BYOB”

We’re really playing into the theme here. I gave the BYOB acronym a fun twist, too!

Gift options:

• Purchase a basket (or use one you already have) and line it with a gingham or picnic-themed tea towel like one of these from Geometry.

• Fill the basket with Dad’s favorite things.

• And “BYOB”—slip a cute card in the basket or create your own to tell Dad ‘Happy Father’s Day—BYOB (Because You’re Obviously the Best).’

don’t forget!

Keep fun holidays and unique seasonal occurrences in mind to help inspire your next thoughtful gift!