How To Plan a Relaxing Day with Dad

How are you spending Father’s Day this year? With so much running around lately, we are envisioning a simple day spent outside (hopefully it will be sunny on a weekend, for once) with all of Dad’s favorite things. Here are our tips for a relaxing Father’s Day cookout designed for some good old-fashioned quality time. 

The Food

Whether it’s chicken, steak, hamburgers, or hot dogs, no backyard barbecue is complete without something grilled. Create your own marinade with this formula, combining some kind of oil so the meat doesn’t dry out, some kind of acid (i.e., lemon juice) to tenderize, and some herbs and spices for flavor. Why not try something sweet, like orange juice or brown sugar, for a twist? Throw some veggies on the grill, too, while you’re at it. 

The Drinks

The usual: beer, wine, bourbon…whatever Dad likes. If anyone in your party is sensitive to gluten but loves a good beer on a hot day, we suggest New Belgium’s Glutiny Pale Ale. And, of course, no summer day spent outdoors if complete without rosé. We  just tried a fantastic one at the Alexandria Seaport Foundation’s Wine on the Water event this past weekend — Barnard Griffin Sangiovese Rosé 2017 — and couldn’t wait to share it with y’all. Spiked seltzers, like Truly or White Claw, are refreshing, low-sugar options, too. 

The Décor

Keep it simple with fresh flowers from your garden. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy; beautiful hydrangeas cut and placed in an interesting vase will look sophisticated and bright. 

The Fun

Break out the lawn games! Cornhole, bocce, croquet, KanJam, badminton…whatever has been in your closet just waiting for the sun to come out on the afternoons that are so rarely yours to enjoy. If it’s warm enough, a sprinkler will keep the little ones entertained while the competition heats up by the cornhole boards. 

The Ambiance

Set up your outdoor speakers and listen to all of Dad’s favorite songs. If you don’t have good outdoor speakers, the JBL Flip 4 is a safe bet that is small but mighty, portable, and waterproof — perfect for the beach trips you have scheduled later in the summer. 

The Location

Your own backyard! No Ubers necessary. Here is some inspiration from our current listings to set the scene. Click any image to see the home that goes with the great yard.[nemus_slider id="49897"]