



There’s something timeless and truly wonderful about celebrating Father’s Day in style with a laid-back afternoon on the back porch—just the right mix of good food, great conversation, and maybe a cocktail or two as the sun begins to set. This year, instead of scrambling for reservations or trying to pull together a last-minute plan, we’re keeping things simple, relaxed, and meaningful with a backyard cocktail hour and cookout that any dad would love.
Whether your father is the grill master, the guy who always tells the best stories, or simply the one who’s happiest surrounded by family, this gathering is all about making him feel appreciated. And it doesn’t need to be fussy or over-the-top. Just thoughtful touches, delicious bites, and a few favorite flavors to show how much you care.
Host a Back Porch Cocktail Hour
Start things off with a cocktail hour set up on your porch, patio, or even under a shady tree in the backyard. Set out a few comfortable chairs, light a citronella candle or two, and offer up a tray of classic cocktails—Old Fashioneds, Negronis, or a crisp gin and tonic. For a refreshing, make-ahead option, try batching a pitcher of bourbon peach iced tea (bonus: it doubles as a mocktail if you leave the spirits out).
Pair the drinks with a few easy snacks—think a board full of spiced nuts, olives, smoked cheeses, and a few slices of peppered salami. Keep it unfussy, but flavorful. Dads tend to like things straightforward, after all.
Fire Up the Grill for a Father’s Day Feast
When it’s time to eat, fire up the grill and let the scent of charred goodness drift through the air. You can keep things classic with burgers and brats, or go a little elevated with marinated flank steak, grilled corn, and rosemary potatoes. Need a checklist to replicate our full Back Porch Cocktail Hour & Cookout Guide with setup guide, hosting tips and our favorite menu ideas—download it now and subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss more tips and inspiration.
Let the kids help set the table with paper napkins and mason jars, and toast to Dad with whatever’s in your glass. It’s the kind of gathering that doesn’t require perfection—just love, laughter, and maybe a good dad joke or two.
Don’t Forget Dessert: Small Bites & a Father Favorite
When the grill cools down and the fireflies begin to blink, bring out a tray of small desserts to finish the evening sweetly. We love keeping things simple with mini treats like lemon bars, chocolate-dipped strawberries, or twix bites. But this year, we’re featuring one of our family’s favorites—our homemade peanut brittle. Crisp, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet, it’s the kind of nostalgic treat that always earns a smile (and maybe a second helping).
Still Looking for the Perfect Gift?
If you’re still trying to find that just-right something for Dad, don’t worry—we’ve pulled together a curated Father’s Day gift guide filled with thoughtful, stylish, and actually-useful ideas he’ll appreciate. From grilling tools and cocktail accessories to travel-ready gear and sentimental keepsakes, there’s something on our list for every kind of father figure.
So this Father’s Day, skip the crowded restaurants and make something a little more personal. Good food, a few drinks, and time together—what better way to show your appreciation than a celebration that feels relaxed, cozy, and truly made with love?
Peanut Brittle
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 1/2 cups salted peanuts
- 3 tbls butter
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 tsp baking soda
Instructions
- In a medium-sized pot, cook the sugar, corn syrup, and water until the mixture reaches 285 degrees. Stirring occasionally.
- Add the salted peanuts and butter. Stirring constantly until the mixture reaches 295 degrees and is slightly golden in color.
- Remove the pot from the heat.
- Working fast, add the vanilla and baking soda until the mixture is completely combined.
- Pour the mixture onto a cookie sheet lined with a silicone liner. Working quickly, spread the mixture out with an offset spatula
- Place the pan on a cold surface until the brittle is completely cool. Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.