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a family on the trail

Seven Fun Ideas for Father's Day in Kemptville

Father’s Day is a day to appreciate one's father or relevant father figure; it’s a day to celebrate fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. There are many ways to say “thank you” and if you’re looking for a gift or an activity to do with that special someone, read on. We’ve gathered a few awesome ways you can spend this Sunday together for Father’s Day, so come on down and take a day trip to Kemptville.

Play The Course

Welcome to Kemptville, a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, our town offers a variety of courses and facilities that will challenge and delight you.

One of the most popular destinations for golfers is the Equinelle Golf Course. This award-winning course boasts stunning views and challenging holes, with a reputation for being one of the best in the region.

If you're looking for a more laid-back experience with your dad, the Rideau Glen Golf Course is a great option. With its picturesque location and relaxed atmosphere, this course is perfect for a fun round with friends or family. And if you're looking to improve your swing, the Indoor Celtic Golf Centre offers state-of-the-art simulators and instruction that will help your dad take their game to the next level.

Restaurant Recommendation

After a round or two of golfing at Equinelle Golf Course, why not treat you and your father figure to a delicious meal? The Fireside Grill at Equinelle Golf Course is a local favourite for golf enthusiasts, offering culinary delights including Asian Duck Rolls, Shrimp & Scallop Fresco, and AAA grade striploins. Check out of its other mouth-watering menu options on the website.

Try a Different Kind of Golfing

Maybe traditional golfing isn’t it? Did you know that Kemptville is also home to a beautiful, 18-basket disc golf course?

The Ferguson Forest Disc Golf Course welcomes anyone and any skill level; this sport is super easy to start, and has minimal costs involved (and the fun you’ll have with your dad is priceless).

Set on over 22 acres with wide-open bombs, tight, wooded tunnels, doglegs, gentle elevation changes, obstacles, and elevated baskets, this course has it all. 

Frisbee disc sets can be borrowed from the North Grenville Public Library, and the course is free to play.

Visit https://www.fergusonforestcentre.ca/visit/disc-golf-course for more information.

Father and son sit on a creek deck, setting up their fishing rods

A Rare Chance to Catch and Release

Father’s Day Weekend is an Ontario Family Fishing Event! Grab your family, your fishing gear and maybe even your choice of kayak, canoe, or fishing boat and make your way down to the tranquil waters of Kemptville Creek! Ontario Family Fishing Events allow residents to fish without a license, presenting the perfect opportunity to try out fishing, teach others, and appreciate nature with loved ones. Kemptville Creek is a quiet, beautiful waterway where one can paddle and fish undisturbed by larger boats while observing the wildlife around them. For more information and regulations, please visit https://www.ontariofamilyfishing.com/

Kemptville has many convenient docks to fish and launch your boat from throughout the municipality. Visit this website to see the whole list of parks and docks, and check out our blog post on paddling beautiful Kemptville for more ideas!

No Fishing Gear? No Problem!

The Rideau River Provincial Park and North Grenville Public Library has rod and reels to loan for FREE through the Tackle Share program. It’s as simple as borrowing a library book; just bring it back when its due!

No Boat? We Got You Covered

Rent your choice of kayak, canoe, or Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) from Drifters Outdoors. With an on-site boat launch and all safety equipment provided, you can start your waterway adventure with confidence and ease. Bring your family to paddle down the beautiful creek and experience a unique group activity. Check their Facebook page for more information, including lessons!

A Swaying Promise

Treat yourself and your father to an unforgettable experience with tickets to the Kemptville Live Music Festival! Featuring a diverse lineup, this event promises something for every music enthusiast.

On July 18 (Thursday), immerse yourself in the melodies of:

On July 19 (Friday), savour the performances from:

  • Burton Cummings, who has amassed more hit records than almost any -performer in Canadian history;
  • Suzie Vinnick, the proud owner of a gorgeous voice and an engagingly candid performance style;
  • Keith Glass, a rock and roll band whose music is fused with R&B, country, folk, blues, rock;
  • Avery Jane, a Montreal-based artist from Victoria, BC, is a self-described folk-inspired Pop R&B artist.

On July 20 (Saturday), enjoy the show from:

  • Dean Brody, an artist who holds a 7-year residency at Toronto's Budweiser Stage;
  • The Hello Darlins, who made a name as the biggest breakthrough artists on the international Americana scene in 2021;
  • Angelica Appleman,  who introduced herself to the Canadian country music landscape with her upbeat debut single "Happy Place" in January 2022;
  • RedFox, an author of an award-winning full-length album, "Stranger Love";
  • Cashmen Ford, whose stories and music are not to be missed.

On July 21 (Sunday), lose yourself in the tunes of:

  • Glass Tiger, one of Canada's most enduring and iconic bands;
  • Headpins, who released their debut album "Turn It Loud" in 1982, which quickly went platinum and topped the charts for six weeks with the hit single "Don't It Make Ya Feel".

This four-day musical extravaganza promises a spectacular stage, a dazzling light show, and robust sound systems, ensuring that every note and every beat is delivered with the utmost precision and clarity. It's not just a music festival; it's a sonic experience!

For more information and tickets, visit the Kemptville Live Music Festival.

Kemptville Live performance 2023

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Rocker musician at Kemptville Live stage

Please The Inner Artisan Lover

Take your special someone to the Kemptville Farmers’ Market! With a whole array of artisan good including alpaca socks, barn signs, hand crafted toys, local bird seed blends, dairy free cupcakes, unique loaves of bread, flowers, and of course, fresh produce. Let them shop their heart out, and maybe get them a treat or two.

Breakfast Recommendation

Start Father’s Day off with a family breakfast! Hard Stones Grill bears an extensive breakfast menu, offering all the classic favourites: eggs and bacon, pancakes, crepes, lofty benedicts, omelettes, sandwiches, fruits, and even a breakfast poutine. This locally owned and operated grill runs breakfast 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekends.

Dress Them Up Fancy

Find expertly tailored suits, sports coats, and dress pants from global brand names such as Jack Victor, S. Cohen, and many others at Smolkin's Men's Wear Ltd. With hand-selected silk ties that match perfectly with a wide selection of crisp dress shirts, your father will look sleek. Smolkin’s have been dressing men well in the area for over 100 years. Built on four generations of quality and service, they know how to treat folks like royal when they’re in the store. Visit Smolkin’s in the Kemptville Mall and give your dad that royal treatment.

Bring Your Bikes Out for a Spin

North Grenville has no shortage of trails for you to explore as a family. With over 50km of trails all across the municipality, there is endless adventure to have. Take your bikes to Ferguson Forest Centre and pedal through the wilderness such as on the Maple Trail, or ride down the Rail Trail where the Bytown and Prescott Railway once operated near Kemptville Campus.

Cyclist with a trailer

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