Ah Father’s Day. That time of year where shirts, socks and ties go flying off the shelves and into the less-than-impressed hands of our doting dads.
After the last-minute rush in March to grab something special for our Mam’s special day, now it’s Dad’s turn. (In South Korea they have one day for both parents – just sayin’!).
The big day is Sunday June 19 and this year his gift needn’t be so predictable.
Check out our alternative list of cooler-than- your-average gifts for the special old guy in your life…
1. Hire a private cinema
The Brooks Hotel on Drury Street allow you to rent out a private cinema where you can bring any DVD of your choice (Dad’s choice, obv) and kick back with some fresh popcorn. The screen can also be utilised for slideshows, so why not make one of old family photos?
The cinema can seat up to 26 people so plenty of room for large families, grandkids, uncles, aunts, and pals.
2. Golf lesson
Goldenmoments.ie are offering a golf lesson for two with PGA professional John Dwyer.
Don’t worry if your dad initially gets insulted at your apparent attack on his golfing skills. The aim is actually to learn how to get around the course in a quicker time, and no doubt he’ll be appreciative when he gets an opportunity to show off his mad skillz to his mates.
Price is €115 for one hour and includes lunch.
3. Drive a Lamborghini
The same website is also offering the chance to drive a Lamborghini round Galway for just €299.
Perfect for any car enthusiast Dads out there. An observer accompanies participants on a drive around Galway’s outer roads and motorways. The perfect summer activity, and one any Dad would be chuffed with!
4. B & Q vouchers
Wrinkles, grey hair and trips to DIY shops. Just three things that become more common as a man gets older…
So why not allow your Dad to treat himself to that new leafblower/lawnmower/powerdrill he’s always wanted/will never use?
5. BBQ Sword
This is for all the Dads out there whose culinary expertise is limited to rearing its ugly head on the three sunny days a year we get in Ireland…
The BBQ sword, available at thinkgeek.com is the perfect cheap and cheerful Father’s Day gift. Because who doesn’t want to feel like a musketeer when flipping burgers?
6. Gentlemens Tea
The Morrison Hotel have added a twist to the afternoon tea concept by replacing the actual tea with delicious Wicklow Wolf beer, the petite nibbles with steak sandwiches and delicate cakes with paprika crisps. Because, you know, men.
The perfect way to spend an afternoon with your Dad talking football, politics and other men stuff. GRRRR.
6. Hot Air Balloon Ride
The perfect family experience.
Balloons.ie offer the unique experience of taking in the spectacular views from sky in locations such as the green fields of Trim, Co. Meath and the stunning landscape of Adare Manor in Co. Limerick.
Everyone has to muck in to prepare the balloon and the effort is worth it as an unforgettable experience awaits. Champagne included.
7. A hammock
No need to head down to Hammock Hut, Hammocks-R-Us or indeed any of the hammock outlets located in the hammock district.
Hammockology (yes, seriously), who are located in Cork and can be found at hammocks.ie, are experts in all things hammocks. They provide a number of hammocks for outdoor use, and indoors – plus when Dad’s out for the day, it’s all yours!
Tassimo Machine
Your dad will never buy a coffee ever again if you get him the Tassimo Vivy for Father’s Day.
Once you’ve found a perfect spot for the machine, choose your favourite Tassimo pod, pop it in and you’ve got a tasty drink in minutes. Perfect for any lifestyle – with morning brews and afternoon pick-me-ups just as you like it, in no time at all. Plus, with an automatic self-cleaning function, the Vivy is always ready for your next brew, whenever you are.