Our Father's Day traditions
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Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios
Some people search far and wide for gifts for dads, while some fathers are content just to see and hear from their loved ones on Father's Day.
What's happening: Today's the day, and we asked our readers how they celebrate.
Jim W.: Since his father moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, about six years ago, Jim says he tries to visit every Father's Day weekend. He plans on an extra special day this year after recently visiting this year.
- "Before I had even left town, I booked my flight for this weekend. Everyone knows I'm returning except my Dad, so it will be a complete surprise when I show up."
Steph M.: As a child, the family had a funny mishap, celebrating the day a full week before the actual holiday. It turned out fine: They got into every restaurant, visited an arcade, and stopped by the zoo — all with Dad.
- "It ended up being the best Father's Day ever. We, since that day, have always celebrated our Father's Day on a day that was not the 'official' day."
Gov. Jared Polis: The governor tells us spending quality time with his dad, Stephen Schutz, by cooking and hiking on Father's Day has been a tradition since childhood.
- "I wish Colorado a happy Father's Day and hope that families across the state get to spend time together doing their favorite activities."
Suzanne M.: Since becoming empty nesters, she and her husband treat themselves to a "whatever you want" day on Mother's and Father's Day.
- "This year we are going to the batting cages and then out for fish and chips."
Tricia S.: Three generations of family attended University of California schools, which often hold graduation ceremonies on Father's Day. The timing works well for family gatherings.
- "We celebrated the day with extended family doing something pleasant and low-key, like a beach picnic after the ceremony with the grandparents. It was a perfect combination of events and reminiscences."
💭 Esteban's thought bubble: I don't have specific traditions, though one thing I am trying to get better at is gifting. I can't believe it's taken me this long to simply ask what people would like, but listening closely works, too.
- It's how I learned my brother, Ivan, wants a trucker hat and some coffee for his new pot, while Dad has been eyeing some Nike sneakers. Meanwhile, my brother-in-law, Mane, could really use some whisky tumblers.