Another “special day” is happening during lockdown, as the last few months seems to have amalgamated into one it’s hard to remember which day it is.

Here’s a reminder: Sunday 21st June 2020 is Father’s Day, so you still have time to think about how you can make it special.

This year, however, is different than most due to the coronavirus outbreak. That means it’s harder to follow your normal traditions like Father’s Day lunch at his favourite restaurant, going to a football game together or a visit to the cinema with him.

Still, your special guy — Dads, Grandads, Father-in-laws, Step-Father, Uncles, and so forth — deserve to be celebrated in a big way, which is why Pharmhealth have rounded up a number of Father’s Day ideas that are appropriate for quarantine.

If you’re lucky enough to be quarantined in the same house or can travel within the guidelines (20Km or county border at present) make your at-home Father’s Day feel like a celebration while still adhering to social distancing guidelines. 

But if you aren’t able to spend Father’s Day together, then consider some of the virtual options he can enjoy even if you’re physically apart.

All of these ideas are just about making him feel loved and appreciated, which is just what he needs right about now.

• Send a personalised photo gift; print off your favourite photo or collage and put it in an on-trend frame.
• Music fans might like a collection of their favourite tunes as a CD or downloads.
• If he’s a big tea or coffee drinker, why not make a special mug for him with your photo on it? That way he gets to see your “mug” everyday.
• Perhaps now is a good time to get his grooming regime sorted? Most of our skincare ranges are not gender-specific but we stock Vichy Homme, Bulldog and many more.
• Allow him to have a lie-in (this costs you nothing- but should be very well appreciated).
• If your Dad is tech-savvy have a video-call, either individually (What’s App/FaceTime) or arrange the rest of the family to get together at the same time and have a Zoom quiz get-together – you’ve maybe been doing this at the weekends through lockdown, but this time make the quiz all about him (this could be very funny and ultra-embarassing)!
• Make him a fantastic brunch using a fab Sourdough bought from the local bakery and meats and cheeses from the deli.
• His favourite restaurant might be delivering 3 course meals in the local area, so perhaps arrange for one to be sent to him. If not, maybe buy a voucher and make a date to have the meal together once they re-open.
• Order a nice plant or tree for the garden, it might be a longer lasting present to remember this most unusual time in our lives.
• Bring/Send him some craft beer to enjoy a beer tasting evening, or better still perhaps there’s a local company delivering pints/cocktails to his doorstep!

Whatever he’s into; be it books, sports or photography, try to make your gift personal. Nothing has to be extravagant, like they say “it’s the thought that counts”.

But at a time when small independent local businesses are at critical financial losses, if possible, buy locally whether they are now physically open or through their online sites. These local businesses will struggle to exist soon if everyone continues to spend their money at high street chains and restaurants. Try to support them in whatever way you can, even if you decide that buying a voucher for your Father to spend on a new shirt or next trip to the barbers, might be better; it all helps.