Celebrate Dad this weekend

Let’s face it: fathers can be difficult to shop for. If you can’t count how many ties you have gotten him, or the current trendy tech gadgets are beyond your budget or beyond his technological skills, fear not. Local venues around Winter Park and Maitland can make your job easier, with Father’s Day specials and events to suit any kind of dad. So gather the whole family, or plan one-on-one time with you and dad, and check out the local offerings for this holiday, listed in order of lowest budget to highest:

Maitland Public Library

Open for all ages to celebrate their dads, the Maitland Public Library is hosting a “Dads Rock!” movie marathon from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, June 17. The selected movies will have a father-son theme and include “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” “Tron: Legacy” and “Cheaper By the Dozen.” The free event includes popcorn and drinks. There are also Father’s Day story times and crafts throughout the week, said Jonathan Dolce, the Youth Services Librarian. The library is located at 501 S. Maitland Ave. Call 407-647-7700 or visit MaitlandPublicLibrary.org for more information.

Leu Gardens

Take your dad to an in-town getaway at the beautiful Leu Botanical Gardens at 1920 N. Forest Ave., Orlando. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 19, all dads will get free admission to the gardens (admission for other adults is $7 and children’s admission is $2). Enjoy a whole world of plants in the 50-acre garden, as well as the art exhibit and Leu House Museum tour. “Take a stroll around, enjoy the day and relax. Enjoy our gardens instead of having to work in your own,” said Tracy Micciche, who is in charge of the garden’s events and marketing. Call 407-246-2620 or visit LeuGardens.org for more information.

The Enzian

At noon on June 19, treat your dad to a flick and beer at the Enzian at 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland. To celebrate dads, the theater is featuring “Field of Dreams,” considered one of the greatest sports movies of all time, and offering free beer for dads after the movie. Tickets are $8 or $7.50 for Enzian members. “Field of Dreams” was nominated for three Academy Awards and stars Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta and Burt Lancaster. “Even if they don’t come see the movie, they can come out to eat all day long and get themselves a free beer,” said Christy West, Enzian’s food and beverage manager. “We’re just encouraging dads to hang out and enjoy the day.” Visit Enzian.org for more information.

Habitat for Humanity

This year, honor your dad by giving back to the community. Donate to Habitat for Humanity in your father’s name or memory, and then volunteer together at a Habitat Build Site on Saturday, June 18. “This year, we opened up the option for people to, instead of giving their father a tie or fishing pole or the same old stuff, they can donate in their father’s honor,” said Jennifer Gallagher, a representative for Habitat. The goal is to raise $2,500, so get donating. Your contribution will be used to create a safe and comfortable home for a family in need. Visit habitat-orlando.org for more information.

Art & History Museums, Maitland

For the dad who likes hands-on activities, Art & History Museums is offering a Father’s Day Carpentry Crew event for the second year in a row at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 18, at the Carpentry Shop Museum. Learn about antique woodworking techniques and build a take-home gift with your old man. Cost is $5 for adults, $15 for children. “It’s always nice if fathers can come with their sons and help them,” said Von Hancock, a docent at the museum, whose husband began the Carpentry Crew program. Space is limited, so reserve a spot today. Call 407-539-2182 or email [email protected]