Is Father’s Day the most important holiday of the calendar year? No! But it doesn’t mean that you and the kids shouldn’t be spending a little effort to shower your hubby with some extra TLC. Luckily in Beijing, there are plenty of ways to do this. While we wouldn’t recommend doing anything too extreme like carting him off to the Great Wall for the day. That is unless he doesn’t mind sitting most of the morning in traffic, walking up countless inconveniently constructed steps, and inflicting on himself and others a heavy dose of lactic acid-induced pain. It’s a wall, and it’s undoubtedly “Great,” but chances are he just wants a whole bucket of ‘cold ones’ and a day to rediscover his inner animal because he’s earned it (hopefully). Here’s our list of opportunities for Dad to do just that.
The 2018 Beijing Burger Festival
All ages. The biggest burger festival to ever grace Beijing returns in its sixth year at Galaxy Soho. There are currently 40 burger vendors and 20 drinks vendors working away to bring everyone the best of their meaty and thirst-quenching products. There’ll also be ice cream, juice, and other refreshments to keep you feasting to your heart’s content. 2018’s Beijing Burger Fest is all about rock ‘n’ roll, so expect high-energy performances and music and enough grub and drinks to keep you pogoing throughout the weekend. RMB 30 (door price). 11am-8pm. Galaxy Soho. (5941 3140 for group tickets)
Father’s Day Brunch at Kerry’s Kitchen
All ages, All fathers get unlimited flow of beer, a scrumptious buffet, and live entertainment from the Kerry house band. While dad enjoys himself the kids get to make rice dumplings with the chefs and also access to their Adventure Zone for hours of playtime. To top it off, dad will be receiving a personalized “Best Dad Award” as a souvenir. RMB 418 adults, RMB 209 kids (6-11 years old). 12.00-3.30pm. Kerry’s Kitchen.
Two for One on Beers＆Selected Wines for Dads at Swissotel Beijing Beer Garden
Adults. Nothing says “thanks Dad, you’re doing an awesome job” like a tall frosty stein of König Ludwig Weissbier. Get to Swissotel Beijing’s Beer Garden for a magical afternoon of two for the price of one beers and wine, and a complete menu of German classics. Daily 12pm-12am. Swissotel Beijing. (6553 2288, ext 2161)
Father’s Day Cooking Class at Morton’s of Chicago
All ages. While at first glance we thought, “maybe this wouldn’t be the ideal event for dads,” we quickly changed our opinion when we realized the potential of teaching our children how to grill up a mean steak. Feast on one steak from Morton’s and sure you’ll be feeling great, but teach your child to cook a perfect steak and dad can just sit back while his brood of chefs does all the work for years to come. This actually sounds fantastic, and depending on how often you feed your need for red meat, not breaking any labor laws! Space is limited, so make your reservations quick! RMB 288. Call 6523 7777 for more details. Morton’s of Chicago Steakhouse
Daddy Day Care at Xian
All ages. If you can tell that Dad is feeling the stresses of adult life and has possibly reached a breaking point, get him over to EAST Hotel’s Xian Bar stat for Daddy Day Care. Here, he can get three-hours of free flow craft beer and pizza to celebrate the fruits of his familial and professional labor. In addition to 12 different varieties of beer on tap, there will also be family-friendly yard games going on outside. RMB 198. 2-5pm. Xian Bar
Father’s Day at Feast
All ages. As one of the best brunches in town, you can’t go wrong with Feast. In addition to free flow on soft drinks, craft beer, and house wines, dads will also be taking home a 4-pack of beer to enjoy at their leisure. The play area connected to Feast is also great for giving daddy and mommy a moment or two to gaze longingly in each other’s eyes before that motley crew returns for second helpings of French Toast and bacon. RMB 398 per person. 11.30am-3pm. Feast
Photos: the Beijinger, courtesy of organizers
