Appreciate Atlanta Dads on Father's Day

Father's Day is coming up and Atlanta has some treats in store for those wonderful fathers who have been so important in our lives. There are a range of events and activities that would appeal to all sorts of dads--from fishing, to contests, to shows and the always-popular "dad" restaurant!

I would never normally advise taking dad to any festival or anywhere there's shopping. It's just not something most busy fathers usually enjoy. But I wouldn't hesitate to make plans to the summer al fresco jazz under the stars This June 17, on Father's Day, Villa Christina at Perimeter Summit, begins its outdoor summer series of free Jazz concerts. This would be a treat for the father who loves jazz, the outdoors, and relaxation. The Villa and Cafe will have cool drinks, shrimp and salmon salads and hand-tossed pizza will be available. All dad will need is a blanket or lawn chairs. No coolers are allowed. It's be a great opportunity for mom an dad to celebrate his special day together, and the cost couldn't be better--free! Music starts at 5:30 so come early and settle in. Call 404-303-0133.

If dad has some young children, why not accompany him this year on Father's Day to an outdoor outing with a Bluegrass band in the background? Bluegrass & Big Bugs, Sunday, June 17 from noon to 5 p.m. This is a day the Gardens has dedicated to all the loving dads out there. It's a time to relax and enjoy an early summer afternoon with family. We all know that dads are also boys, right? They should get a kick out of this year's "Big Bugs" and Killer Plant exhibition by David Rogers--a whole medley of giant bugs paired with carnivorous plants. And all fathers are admitted for half-price that afternoon. They can play some old-fashioned games, like horseshoes, with their children and see live bug displays, and much more. This is an outing for a dad who just loves to play with his children. By the way, there's a Nanci Griffith Concert on the Green outdoors on Friday night before Father's Day. It might be nice to take him to that too.

Who says that you can't take dad and the family out to brunch? We ladies get this luxury, so it's his time now. If this appeals to you, take him straight to South City Kitchen in Midtown. It's homey, down-south cooking with a flair, every Sunday from 11--3:30. The new south cuisine is flavorful interpretations of hearty old southern favorites like fried green tomatoes, pan fried chicken livers, pan fried mountain trout, crabmeat hash, and, of course, those delectable pancakes and eggs benedict! What more could warm a father's heart? But then let him top it off with a from scratch fruit cobbler! Father's Day may put a few pounds on him, but you can get him a gym membership to work it off. It's His day, so let him live it up! Call the restaurant early to see about making reservations. 403-873-7358
1144 Crescent Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30309

One last suggestion is a possibility for the dad who loves the outdoors. Take the family on a river or lake outing. You can present your favorite dad with an anual park pass to the Chatahoochee River Park for just $25. It's something he can use year round, and if dad loves fishing, he'll appreciate this gesture. But the whole family can enjoy an outing on Lake Lanier with a day pass that costs $25.99 online. The lake has 1/2 mile of sandy white beach where the whole family can play and relax. http://www.lakelanierislands.com/content.asp?pid=984