Article by Kara Schwalbe

Photos by Kristin Jean Photographer of the Hutchinson family

Each year, Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in June. But did you know that while President Woodrow Wilson officially recognized Mother’s Day in 1914, it took another 58 years for Father’s Day to gain enough popularity to be signed into law? It wasn’t until 1972 that President Richard Nixon made it official. While Mother’s Day brunch, flowers and gifts presented an easy win for retailers, Father’s Day historically didn’t quite pack the same punch.   

Today, Father’s Day is often marked with grill sets, sporting goods, or the classic “Number One Dad” mug. But we wanted to know more, so we asked Billings dads how to actually make the day great. If Dad’s special day is usually an afterthought in your home, let’s fix that. Here’s your guide to thinking a bit differently this year. 

What Dads Really Want 

Surprisingly, when asked what is most valuable to them, 90% of dads who took our survey selected “memory.” Their preference for the day isn’t a solo escape, but a shared outing with the family. “I’m not a father just because of me. It’s because of my dad, wife, and kids. Let’s spend time together,” commented Joey, a local dad of three. When asked for their best tips to make the day great, the theme was consistent: connection through action.  

Two Paths to a Great Day 

While most dads are looking to enjoy time with the family, the secret is in the details. Our survey responses showed that dads fall into two camps when it comes to the family itinerary:  

1. Let me plan (and don’t control) 

“Just let me be me for a day. Let me be a little disorganized or spontaneous and go with my flow,” says one anonymous dad. When Dad is in this camp, try a “yes and...” kind of day.  Get the kids ready, pack the snacks, and then simply say yes to whatever he suggests. By letting the routine slide, you aren’t just giving him a gift; you’re giving him the freedom from being managed.  

2. Just Make Decisions and Go with It 

For the dads who want you to take the lead, have a loose plan that is a win-win for everyone. One dad advised, “Do something we all enjoy, don’t force kids to do something they will hate just for me.” Lars, another local dad, echoed this, “Just make decisions and go with it. Don’t sweat the small stuff. The day doesn’t have to be perfect, it’s the together time that counts.”  

Creating “Legacy Moments” 

Sometimes we overthink it, but Nikos reminded us that often the best plans are the ones that just let Dad be himself: “Get me in nature where we can hang out as a family...Let me make the kids pancakes, let me bait hooks, let me pass some knowledge to the kids.  I don’t need to be waited on for Father’s Day.”  

Take the pressure off by remembering that a “messy” day can still be a great day. Create space for these legacy moments. Make the day as low friction as possible and be present. Capture the moment as he chases the kids or untangles the fishing line but don’t make him pose for photo. If he wants to teach the kids how to start a campfire or turn a wrench, provide the audience and the supplies, then step back and let him be the hero. 

Need some inspiration for low pressure connection and organic moments? Here are some Billings hotspots and other ideas that were shared with us:  

The "Shared Adventure" (Outdoors & Nature) 

• Simple Walk: The Rims 
• Local Hike: Phipps Park 
• Games & Play: Disc Golf at Pioneer Park 
• True Adventure: Explore a new spot in the Beartooths 

Tip: Pack the "Go-Bag" (water, snacks, sunscreen) yourself. Let him just show up and lead the way without managing the gear. 

The "Brews & Bites" (Brewery Vibes & Pub Grub) 

• Dinner & Patio Vibes: DiamondX, Meadowlark, 1Ō5 Brewing 
• Pints & Pretzels Hang: Carter’s Brewing, Canyon Creek Brewing 
• The Burger Run: The Burger Dive, Stacked 
• Classic Treats: Big Dipper Ice Cream, Softies 

Tip: Skip the formal reservation. Dads said they want to "roll with the flow," so pick a spot with a patio where the kids can be a little loud. 

The "Dad Haven" (Hobbies & Sport) 

• On the Green: Pryor Creek Golf Course 
• High Energy: GetAir, Steepworld 
• Gym Time: If he wants an hour of "Me Time" before the family festivities begin 

Tip: These can be either shared family activities or some alone time, maybe both! 

The "Retail Therapy" (Tools & Gear) 

• The "Toy" Stores: Scheels, Shiptons, Harbor Freight 
• The Outdoorsman: The BaseCamp 
• The Master Builder: A gift card for his next project at Lowe’s or Home Depot 

Tip: Don’t just give a gift card; give him a "time pass" to go roam the aisles alone or with a kid who wants to learn about tools. 

The "Low-Stakes" (Simple & Spontaneous) 

• Backyard Hangout: Fire up the grill, flip some pancakes, and just "kick it" as a family. 
• The "Yes" Day: Let him be a little disorganized or spontaneous. If he wants to drive to the river at 2:00 PM, just go! 
• The Hand-Off: Let him "pass on knowledge." Ask him to show the kids how to check the oil or swing a golf club. 

Tip: The survey was clear: "Together time counts." A simple, sincere "Happy Father’s Day" and being fully present is the biggest win. 

Originally printed in the June 2026 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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