Father’s Day falls on June 18 this year, so now is the time to think about how to celebrate it for your dad. A card and a small gift is nice but why not celebrate it with him, doing something fun. There are plenty of outdoor adventures you can embark on with him (golfing, camping, hiking, fishing, etc) You can also take him to any of the family friendly brewery or wineries around town, most of which offer food, games and music. But there are also many special events scheduled throughout the greater Sacramento area that are designed just for dad. Here are some of the top ways you can celebrate dad this Father’s Day weekend.

Father’s Day Things to do

Father’s Day Weekend Brews, Blues, and BBQ Express

Photo courtesy Placerville Sacramento Valley Railroad

Who? “Placerville & Sacramento Valley Railroad is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving California’s rich railroad history. Our mission is to protect, preserve, and develop the Folsom-Placerville railroad right-of-way, celebrating its legacy through the creation and operation of a sustainable community heritage railroad for the benefit, use, education, and enjoyment of the general public. Their website states “Join us for a short 10 minute trip down to Father’s Weekend brews, Blues and BBQ event at Willow Springs! Nestled in the woods next to beautiful Willow Creek right in the middle of Folsom, the Whistlestop is full of adventure for young and old alike.” Adult tickets are $36 and that includes a BBQ lunch too.


Father’s Day at the Old Sugar Mill

Photo courtesy of Old Sugar Mill

Treat dad to a glass of wine at Old Sugar Mill in Clarksburg on June 17th from 11 am to 5 pm. There are 14 wineries there and it’s only a 15 minute drive from downtown Sacramento.


Father’s Day Blue Grass Festival in Grass Valley

Photo courtesy California Bluegrass Association

Except for 2021 and 2022, due to Covid pandemic, California Bluegrass Association has been celebrating Father’s Day since 1976, in the beautiful foothills of the Sierra. Who is playing? Check out the 2023 line up here. Dad’s going to love it, if he is into music. There will be food, drinks, music and you can even camp outside and stay the weekend.


Father’s Day Train (River Fox Train)

Photo courtesy River Fox Train

Give dad a dose of nostalgia on this old-fashioned departure through scenic Yolo County farmlands. Passengers have their choice of indoor or outdoor seating aboard the train. Cool off with beer and whiskey tastings available for purchase.
River Fox Train station is located on the Sacramento River and their roundtrip excursions travel along a 10-mile stretch of track through Yolo’s countryside. Book online or call for more information. (800) 866-1690

El Dorado County Fair

Photo courtesy El Dorado County Fair

The El Dorado County Fair will be held on Father’s Day weekend, June 15–18 in Placerville. Here’s their Father’s Day Package for June 18:
Valid Sunday Only: Noon – 10 pm – $40 (S-XL) $43 (XXL) $45 (XXXL)
A $94+ Value, includes Father’s Day T-shirt, one general ticket, one youth admission ticket, and one unlimited ride wristband. Fathers wearing this year’s Father’s Day t-shirt get in free on Sunday!


Father’s Day Sights & Sips Cruise

Photo courtesy City Cruises.

If dad likes boats and cruises, take him out for a cruise on the beautiful Sacramento River. City Cruises is offering a 1.5 hour cruise with live DJ entertainment and full bar (available) Tickets are $32 and and cruises start at 12:00 and 3:00. Use the link to check for availability and booking.


Lunch or Diner at Thunder Valley Casino

Photo Courtesy Pexels

Thunder Vally Casino is offering a Father’s Day Special menu for $34.99.
Starter: Choice of: Brentwood Roasted Corn Chowder with Honey Bacon or Summer Greens, Arugula & Watercress Salad.
Entree: Choice of: Applewood Smoked Bone-In New York Steak or Grilled Pacific Swordfish.
Desert: Choice of: Fried Challah Bread Pudding or Father’s Chocolate Cigar

Father’s Day USOPEN @ Tipsy Putt

Mini golf at Tipsy Putt

Tipsy Putt in Downtown Sacramento offers “unlimited amounts of entertainment. Mini-Golf, 2-1 Putt™, Shuffleboard, Cornhole, Sports Bar, Leagues, Memberships, Amazing Locations & California Cuisine. All ages until 5PM. 21+ after 5PM.” They also offer amazing food and local craft beer. Take your dad there, play some golf, eat some great food, drink some great beer, have some fun.