Father's Day in the Royal City

Father's Day is this coming Sunday. Once again it has snuck up on us! There's lots to do with Dad this weekend, depending on what his interests are. So if you're stuck for ideas on what to do with Dear Old Dad on Sunday, read on!


Visit the Donkeys

As with every Sunday during the warm months, Donkey Sanctuary of Canada is open to the public from 10am to 4pm on Father's Day. Taking Dad to see the donkeys is the perfect way to spend time with him in the outdoors. Go for an hour or two, or take a picnic and make a day of it.






Woolystock 2





Guelph's beloved Woolwich Arrow is turning 25 this year and to celebrate, they're throwing a big, four day party. As the third day of the party happens to also be Father's Day, the Wooly is hosting the Father's Day Cask Festival, which features casks from 25 different breweries. There are two sessions: 12-2:30, and 3-5:30. Tickets are $25 per person and are available at the Wooly.










Build a bird house

Head over to the Civic Museum with Dad to build a build a bird house together. This fun activity is ideal for Dads with younger children, though he'll have to make sure that little fingers don't get hurt! Andre Belisle from JL's Home Hardware will be on site to help with this fun project. $15 per person












Go Paddling 





If your Dad loves the outdoors, go down to the covered bridge and rent a canoe or kayak from Speed River Paddling for an hour or two. Follow the quiet Eramosa River to Victoria Road, or further if you like! On your return, take a break and grab some ice cream from the Boathouse.












National Aboriginal Day

This year, National Aboriginal Day also falls on Father's Day. Bring Dad down to Market Square between 2 and 3:30 to celebrate the rich culture, unique heritage and notable achievements of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit Peoples of Canada. This is a free, family friendly event. 











Take a walking tour 


Did you know that we have historical walking tours in our city? If Dad loves history and architecture, be sure to take him on the tour that is running this weekend. This week's tour takes participants to the south side of the Speed River to explore one of Guelph's early industrial secions, formerly known as Brooklyn, as well as the College Hill area that developed around the Ontario Agricultural College. The tour includes some of the city's best examples of masonry and stone carving. Tours cost $5 per person, run approximately one hour, and operate rain or shine.



Taste Real Local Food Fest 

Is Dad into the organic, Localvore, food scene? Even if he just loves food, he will appreciate the Local Food Fest. Now in its 10th year, this food fest celebrates all food that is produced on a local scale. The event is hosted by Ignatius Jesuit Centre, which also has a small farm that supplies fresh, organic veggies to some restaurants in town. Take in a cooking demonstration, learn about brewing beer, or visit with the goat for a chance to milk one. Admission is by donation, minimum $2.50 per person, or $5 per family.



Street Car Museum 

Go for a short drive down Guelph Line and take Dad to the Street Car Museum. The collection includes streetcars, interurbans, suburbans, work equipment, gas equiptmen, buses and much more. There are more than 75 vehicles in the collection presently. Admission for Dad is free with the purchase of one youth admission ($10.50).



Cruizin for the Dog Guides 

So many Dads love classic cars. The Guelph Lion's Club is proud to present its second annual Cruizin for Dog Guides. Hosted at Stone Road Mall, this classic car show will feature lots of chrome, music, a 50-50 draw, and lots of old, classic cars. See if you can find the oldest car there! All money raised from this event will go towards the Lion's Foundation of Canada Dog Guides.