News & Politics

Father’s Day Fun

From cruises to tea parties to comedy performances, there’s lots to do this weekend to celebrate Dad. Check out our roundup of Washington Father’s Day events.

Father’s Day Brunch Guide

Father’s Day Gift Guide

Know of an event that’s not listed here? E-mail eleaman@washingtonian.com with details.

Saturday, June 20

“Daddy and Me” Tea
The Morrison House hotel in Old Town, Alexandria, is hosting a story time for dads and daughters at 2 PM. Just Me and My Dad will be read aloud while dads and kids enjoy organic teas, house-made scones, sandwiches, and desserts. Kids can make a craft for dad, too. Tickets are $38 for adults and $28 for kids. Space is limited, so be sure to make a reservation at 703-838-8000 or e-mail storytime@morrisonhouse.com.

Father’s Day Barbecue Class
Acadiana in DC’s Penn Quarter is hosting a barbecue class and feast for dads from 1 to 3. Chef Brant Tesky will teach students how to grill cowboy steaks, pork ribs, and even caesar salad. He’ll also make grilled corn and mushrooms, a chimichurri sauce, and a grilled-peach melba. While the food is being prepared, dads enjoy unlimited Abita drafts and root beer. Guests will leave with a goodie bag stocked with house-made barbecue sauce, a recipe book, and more. The class ($75 a person) is currently booked, but organizers are taking names for a waiting list. Contact Jillian Zins at jillian@passionfoodhospitality.com or 202-408-0201 to add yours. There’s a possibility that a second class will be added, so stay tuned!

Fee-Free Weekends at a National Park
June 20 and 21 are one of three fee-free weekends this year at more than 100 national parks throughout the country. Washington-area parks that won’t charge entrance fees include Fort Washington Park, Arlington House, Assateague Island National Seashore, Great Falls Park, Manassas National Battlefield Park, Prince William Forest Park, and Shenandoah National Park.

>> Next page: Events on June 21st 

Sunday, June 21

Father’s Day at Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon is celebrating dads with a meet-and-greet with George Washington. An impersonator will take questions and pose for photos, and at 11, 1, and 3, he’ll give special Father’s Day-themed performances. Dads can also take advantage of free admission to George Washington’s Distillery and Gristmill. The estate is open from 8 to 5. Tickets are $15 for ages 12 and older, $14 for seniors, $7 for 6-to-11-year-olds, and free for kids under 6. Advance online ticket purchase is recommended.

Potomac Cruises

Odyssey Cruises is hosting two Father’s Day brunch cruises, which board at 10:15 and 2:15. The two-hour cruises include a buffet brunch; one premium drink ticket; complimentary juice, soda, and mimosas; live entertainment; and dancing. Tickets are $69.90 for adults, $38.90 for ages 7 to 11, and $19.90 for ages 4 to 6; kids under age four are free.

The Odyssey’s sister cruise line, Spirit Cruises, is hosting a three-hour dinner cruise, which boards at 6:30. It includes complimentary nonalcoholic drinks—cocktails, Champagne, and wine are extra—a dinner buffet, and dancing. Tickets are $69.90 a person.

Father’s Day Comedy Jam

Comedians Arnez J, Sheryl Underwood, and Bruce Bruce come together for a Father’s Day-themed performance at DAR Constitution Hall. Tickets to the 7 PM show are $55. Get them through Ticketmaster here.

Father/Daughter Tea with the Fairy Godmother
The Fairy Godmother will read a story, help with a jewelry-making activity, and make her rounds while dad and daughter share tea, juice, cookies, and sandwiches. The event, held at At Play Cafe in Reston, will run from 4 to 5:15. The cost is $30 per daddy-and-daughter pair; additional siblings are $15. Call 703-391-6131 to reserve a space.