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Ask An OC Expert: Best Gifts For Father's Day

happy family dad 610
(credit: Monkey Business Images/shutterstock)

Father's Day gift giving seems to have a little less pressure than some of the other holidays throughout the calendar year. Ditch the tie, dress shirt and BBQ tools and find something that is meaningful for dad. Whether it be a day spent hanging out together, a sentimental token or a surprise dinner, any of these gestures will show your true feelings for him.

Grace Chung
Anaheim Packing House
440 S. Anaheim Blvd.
Anaheim, CA, 92805
anaheimpackingdistrict.com

Anaheim Packing House's Tenant & Community Relations Manager Grace Chung has her pulse on what dads want for Father's Day this year. Grace spends most of her days visiting and checking in with artisan cafes and kiosks at Anaheim Packing House to discover the latest menus and goods. On top of that, Grace creates and organizes all of the community events, social media and marketing for the Packing House. With a passion for music, she books the bands that come to play live on the Mezzanine Stage, and through her love of the culinary culture, she has found herself in the perfect job (did we mention that her office is next door to Pandor Bakery?). Grace helps kids out this year by offering gift-giving tips to make their dads feel extra special.

The Camp Seed Peoples Market km
(credit: Seed People's Market)

Fun Spins On Useful And Practical Items For Dad

Check out the SEED People's Market kiosk at Anaheim Packing House for fun spins on practical items, all which do good for the community. Sure, Dad can always use a new hat, T-shirt or bottle opener, but SEED offers one-of-a-kind collections of eco-minded brands made by local artisans and from Third World countries.  This year you’ll find #productswithapurpose like tool wrench bottle openers, statement T-shirts and hats, and of course everyone guy needs a Man Can — these are candles possessing scents like bacon and charcoal.

short ribs
(Credit: shutterstock)

Show Up With Dinner

Surprise pop with dinner. Bring a taste of soul from Georgia’s restaurant. St. Louis BBQ ribs, tri-tip and fried chicken are just a few of the Southern favorites that can be ordered for take-out. The Chippy Fish & Grill offers catering to go, but best of all this eatery makes the best fish and chips in OC. Dad will give you big “props” when you bring home a Neopolitan pizza. Each pizza is handmade using Mama’s sauce and fresh ingredients. The Packing House, restored now was once the Packard Building and car showroom, and today is a great neighborhood fall hall and gathering space.

family
(credit: Robert Kneschke/shutterstock)

Plan A Family Day

You won’t have to drag dad out of the house when it comes to spending time together. Start off by indulging in breakfast or brunch at Candor Bakery this Father's Day. The Packing House is hosting a fun event with the sounds of jazz, smiles and good company. It's a splendid day to grab a selfie with dad to post on your Snapchat story. Poppy Shoppe Productions welcomes anyone with a smile to its vintage photo stand from noon to 2:00 p.m. Stick around for the jazz trio from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Farmers Park, which is also in the Anaheim District, gives the family an ideal setting for family time (kites, dogs and picnics are welcome).

Related: Best Summer Play Dates For Kids In Orange County

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(credit: istockphoto)

Thoughtful Gift-Giving Is Appreciated

Down the way, in fact just a complimentary Polly the Trolley ride away to Center St. Promenade, shoppers will find gift ideas to make their old man feel good about himself. Barbeer is an old school barber shop with a contemporary cool vibe. What man wouldn’t want a shave, haircut and a cold beer all in one visit (gift certificates available). RARE by Goodwill is a unique shopping destination and it doesn't scream mall or department store shopping. The goods here are specially curated with upscale clothing, shoes and homewares. Other not-to-be-missed shops include The Good and Home Eco:Nomics.

Anaheim Brewery
(credit: Abby J./Yelp)

A Visit To The Brewery

Anaheim Brewery, located in the Packing District, is both an interesting and enjoyable experience (21 years and older, please) for dads and their adult kids. The Brewery’s Tasting Room, which is outfitted with brewery tanks and lots of bar history, allows you to try out multiple brews and ales, with the goal of helping you distinguish your preferences. With so many fantastic food choices offered in the Packing District, Anaheim Brewery also welcomes you to bring in your eats while you sip a pint in its designated beer garden.

Related: Best Wine Bars In Orange County

Sheryl Craig is a writer with a passion for interesting finds and treasures in Los Angeles. She has a background in journalism and public relations. A mother of two daughters, Sheryl integrates her healthy lifestyle into raising her children. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.


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