How to Celebrate Dad This Father’s Day Weekend in Sacramento

Father’s Day falls on June 19 this year, so now is the time to think about how to celebrate dear old dad. Sure, a card and a necktie are always appreciated, but why not spend the day with him doing something fun? There are plenty of spots to take him golfing or on an outdoor adventure. You can also spend the day at one of the many family-friendly breweries around town, most of which offer food, games and music in addition to craft beer. But there are also many special events scheduled throughout the greater Sacramento area that are designed just for dad. From wine tasting to music, following are some of the top ways you can celebrate dad this Father’s Day weekend.

El Dorado County Fair

Photo courtesy El Dorado County Fair

The El Dorado County Fair will be held on Father’s Day weekend, June 16–19 in Placerville. On Sunday, they have special promotions just for dad! You can get discounted admission, an unlimited ride wristband, and a special Dad’s Day T-shirt if you pre-order tickets. Plus, if dad shows up wearing his T-shirt, he gets in free! There’s also a father-child lookalike contest, a “Father Knows Best” game show, and the Rubicon Jeep Jamboree Challenge.

Father’s Day Train Lunch

Photo courtesy River Fox Train

The River Fox Train in West Sacramento is hosting a special Father’s Day lunch excursion June 19. Tickets include a 1-hour train ride, live musical entertainment, and a lunch menu that includes pulled pork or BBQ chicken. There’s also the option for beer and whiskey tasting.

Sights and Sips Cruise

Photo courtesy Hornblower

If dad prefers the water over the rails, step aboard a boat for a cruise along the Sacramento River. The boat departs from Old Sacramento, and includes a narrated tour along with snacks and beverages for purchase.

Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival

Photo courtesy Robin Frenette/California Bluegrass Association

If your dad is a music lover, there’s no better place to be this Father’s Day than the Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival in Grass Valley. Since its founding in 1976, it’s become one of the top events for bluegrass, old-time music and gospel. There are dozens of bands slated to perform, as well as informal jams and workshops. Food and drinks will also be available, and you can make a weekend out of it by camping onsite.

Father’s Day Meals To Go

Photo courtesy Denys Gromov via Pexels

Feel like staying in this Father’s Day but don’t want the hassle of cooking? Take advantage of a special Father’s Day meal to go from Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln. You get your choice of slow-roasted tri-tip or BBQ pork ribs, plus sides like mac & cheese, potato salad, mashed potatoes, peach pie or apple pie. Meals serve 10–12 and are $250.

Father’s Day at the Old Sugar Mill

Photo courtesy Old Sugar Mill

Is dad a wine connoisseur? If so, take him out to the Old Sugar Mill in Clarksburg on Saturday, June 18. As always, there will be wine tasting from 14 onsite wineries, plus live music and food trucks. Bring the family and make a day of it!

Father’s Day Brews, Blues & BBQ Express

Photo courtesy Placerville Sacramento Valley Railroad

Starting in Folsom, the short ride along the Placerville & Sacramento Valley Railroad takes dad on a scenic ride in a historic motor car to a picnic area alongside Willow Creek. There, he’ll get a catered BBQ meal and $5 beers from Fort Rock Brewing Company. You can also tread dad to a handcar ride courtesy of Folsom Handcar Derby volunteers!

Mini Golf Open at Flatstick Pub

Think dad has what it takes to win the first-ever miniature golf open at Flatstick Pub in Downtown Sacramento? Dad can choose from a list of U.S. Open golfers to “partner” with, and the best combined score wins. The grand prize is $1 beer a day every day for a year! Wear your best golf attire and get an upgraded pour. Sundays are family days, meaning you can bring the kids, grab a bite to eat and enjoy the day together.