Sonya's Father's Day Gift Guide 2016

By Sonya Davidson

Most dads will tell you that Father's Day is no big deal. Even celebrity Chef Ricardo Lavillee mentioned in a recent interview that he cherishes the time with his family more than anything else and finds joy when his kids simply know how he likes his coffee in the morning. For the record, it's a decaf Nespresso. Having said that, I'm sure the dads in my life would get some joy out of receiving an unexpected gift. I don't really want to say forget about the predictable new ties and socks but having seen the latest Canadian Tire Father's Day ads, I'm certain that these ideas would get positive reactions...

Samsung's Gear VR: the VR options are getting better and better. Powered by Oculus, this new Gear VR includes hundreds of new content options to Canadians and is fun for that dad who wants immerse himself in the new virtual worlds of 360 degree views gaming and experiences who have a Galaxy smartphone. Simply snap the appropriate device in place and enjoy. Portable and lightweight to take anywhere.

Sonos Play:5 Speaker: This is the latest in the Sonos wireless speaker series. Dad can connect to the TruePlay Sonos app to adjust his preferred sound quality. The speaker also works with apps like Apple Music and Spotify and can play his playlist without moving off the couch on Father's Day via his smart devices. 

Headspace: Dad needs to de-stress? The Headspace app is a great app that can train the mind for a happier and healthier approach to life. It just takes 10 minutes a day to clear your mind at the beginning of each day or when dad needs it the most. It's like having a personal trainer and gym membership for the mind. Initial 10 day programme is free but once dad starts feeling the zen kick in, there's a subscription to keep him motivated and on the path to that happy place. Sessions can be done anywhere even on vacation and right from his smart device. 

6th Gear Driving Experience: For serious driving enthusiasts this 7 hour open lapping day is a relaxed and fun way to enjoy the tracks at the Canadian Tire Motorsports Park (Mosport). The all day event includes a safety meeting and as much access as possible to one of the most challenging race tracks in North America. Dad can bring his own super car to see how far he can push the limits, safely of course.  

Lee Valley Seminars & Workshops: Go "old school" to make something special for dad, or sign him up for a hands-on DIY experience at this woodworking and gardening tools retailer with several locations across Canada. Experts teach a variety of interesting sessions including the fundamentals of joinery, make a pen and learn the art of pen turning to create a one of a kind writing instrument. Youngsters can join dad in a special Father's Day weekend to learn how to make a toolbox. Register online as the workshops are very popular!

Bakerstone Pizza Oven Box: Dad is the king of the BBQ but wow dad with this innovative addition to his grilling arsenal! This cooking chamber raises the temperature to that of a real wood burning pizza oven. Made with cordierite stones and enamell steal housing it can deliver gourmet pizzas in under 4 minutes. Available at Home Depot.

 

For other ideas check out Gadjo's Father's Day Gift Guide 2016.