Something tells me a lot of dads like to spend Father’s Day at home.
Something also tells me a lot of dads would appreciate a special outing this weekend. Here are about a dozen ways to do that (along with everything else going on).
Friday, June 13
A 6 o’clock Friday Night 5K starting and finishing at Armada Brewing offers free endorphins and $5 lagers.
Saturday, June 14
About an hour away in Harwinton—or, for the sake of the fantasy, Nottingham—the 16th annual Robin Hood’s Medieval Faire promises “awe-inspiring performances, scrumptious delicacies, and a vast selection of artisan goods… perfect for history buffs, cosplay enthusiasts, or those seeking a unique adventure” from 10:30 to 6 today and tomorrow. Dad can rub shoulders with jousters, swordfighters, bards, dancers, circus performers, thespians, sorcerers and even executioners—and he can do so as a character of his own, which is highly encouraged, especially in line with the weekend’s “Time Travelers” theme. (He might also enjoy a “notti,” post-festival, 18+ “Nottingham After Dark” party featuring “cheeky entertainment, frosty libations, and pulse-racing contests.”)
From noon to close, Tribus Beer in Milford throws a Father’s Day Block Party featuring “mobile munchies” (including burgers, fresh oysters and ice cream), a cigar lounge, live music (from 5 to 8) and a raffle.
Is Dad a Deadhead? Grateful Dead tribute Shakedown headlines the Goodlife Festival, held from noon to 8. Organized and hosted by Milford head and hippie shop Bohemian High, this “unforgettable day of live music, good vibes, and community spirit” features at least 20 vendors, including four food and drink providers, though it sounds like attendees can also bring their own.
Back at Armada Brewing, The Two Towers, the middle third of the Middle-earth trilogy The Lord of the Rings, screens at 7:30 p.m. This is the second of “three epic nights,” each about two weeks apart, “of hobbits, heroes, and hops. We’re lighting the beacons for movie magic, fresh pours, and Second Breakfast-worthy snacks. Middle-earth attire welcome—elves, dwarves, and ring-bearers unite!”
Sunday, June 15 - Father’s Day
A 9 a.m. “open-invite” Father’s Day Car Show at Bridgeport’s Foolproof Brewing encourages Dad to “polish [his] rims” while polishing off some pints.
From noon to 4, Two Roads Brewing in Stratford offers nine holes of mini golf to go with live music, specialty cocktails and, of course, all the beer.
A Father’s Day Party from noon to 5 at New England Brewing in Woodbridge features eight guest vendors including a popup Irish pub and a BBQ truck.
Back in New Haven, from 1 to 6, Barcade hosts a Family Day, which is just like any other day at this nostalgic craft beer-focused adult arcade except that dads can bring the kids.
From 3 to 7 in Bridgeport, The Bernadettes perform their annual Father’s Day Show on the waterside deck at Captain’s Cove Seaport. “Whether performing high-energy, classic, dance grooves from Earth, Wind & Fire, the Temptations, Heatwave, The Spinners, Aretha Franklin, The Ohio Players, Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson and their contemporaries, or a smooth ballad by Marvin Gaye, The Stylistics, Etta James, Alicia Keys and the like, The Bernadettes can cover them all… And just like that, they can switch gears and jam on a Top 40 summer hit!”
At Lyman Orchards in Middlefield, a Father’s Day BBQ from 6 to 8 p.m. offers a summery all-you-can-eat spread with live music and “an incredible view” of the golf course.
Written by Dan Mims. Image provided courtesy of Robin Hood’s Medieval Faire. Readers are encouraged to verify times, locations, prices and other details before attending events.
