Father’s Day is rolling around again, landing on Sunday, June 15 in 2025. In Central Kentucky, that means it’s time to celebrate the dads, grandpas, uncles, and father figures who keep things running, tell the best (or worst) jokes, and always know how to fix just about anything. Whether you’re a local in Georgetown, Lexington, or Hartland, or just visiting the Bluegrass for the weekend, this is your chance to show some appreciation for the men who taught you how to ride a bike, grill a steak, and maybe even cheer for the Wildcats.
The Story Behind Father’s Day
Father’s Day didn’t just pop up out of thin air. The holiday started thanks to Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, who wanted to honor her dad, a Civil War veteran who raised six kids on his own. After a little campaigning and a lot of persistence, the first official Father’s Day was celebrated in 1910. It took a few decades and a couple of presidents, but by 1972, Father’s Day became a national holiday in the United States. Now, every third Sunday in June, families across the country take a moment to say thanks to the dads who do so much.
How Central Kentucky Dads Like to Celebrate
Central Kentucky dads are a special breed. They’re just as likely to be found at the horse track as they are at a backyard barbecue. Here’s how to make sure your Father’s Day plans are up to par.
Prime Rib Sundays at Honeywood Restaurant
If your dad’s love language is steak, Honeywood Restaurant in Lexington is rolling out the red carpet with their Prime Rib Sundays event. Treat him to a hearty prime rib dinner, complete with all the fixings. This isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience that will have Dad talking about it until next June. Make a reservation, bring your appetite, and let the Honeywood team handle the rest.
Bourbon, Bluegrass, and Beyond
Kentucky and bourbon go together like, well, Kentucky and bourbon. For the dad who enjoys a good pour, consider picking up a bottle of something special from a local distillery. If you want to go the extra mile, book a spot on the Bottled in Bond Bourbon Tour. Dad can sip, savor, and learn a thing or two about the spirit that put Kentucky on the map.
Dinner with a View: My Old Kentucky Dinner Train
For the dad who has everything, how about a ride through the rolling hills of Central Kentucky on a 1950s-style dining car? The My Old Kentucky Dinner Train offers a Father’s Day weekend excursion with a gourmet four-course meal and bourbon tasting. It’s a gift and an experience all in one, and the scenery is unbeatable.
Gift Ideas from Local Businesses
Skip the generic tie this year. Central Kentucky is packed with unique gift options that show you put some thought into Dad’s big day.
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Malone’s Prime Steaks: Pick up USDA Prime steaks from Malone’s in Lexington so Dad can show off his grill skills at home.
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Clayton & Crume Leather Goods: Handmade leather coasters with Kentucky-themed designs make a classy and practical gift.
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Shop Local KY T-Shirts: For the dad with a sense of humor, grab a “Rad Kentucky Dad” or “Kentucky’s okay-est Dad” shirt from Shop Local KY on Woodland Ave.
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Kentucky Bar Glasses: Find these at Peggy’s Gifts on Clay Ave. They’re perfect for Dad’s bourbon collection.
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A Taste of Kentucky: Treat Dad to Kentucky bourbon balls, a mini bourbon ball flight, or even a bourbon cigar. Local flavor, delivered right to your door.
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Nanz & Kraft Florists: Not just for flowers, they offer gourmet baskets, bourbon, and bar-themed gift boxes that will make Dad smile.
Experience Over Stuff: Make Memories
Sometimes the best gift isn’t something you can wrap. Concert tickets for a show at Riverbend, a round of golf, or a day at Keeneland are all great ways to spend time together. Central Kentucky has plenty of options, from live music to outdoor adventures. If Dad’s a foodie, consider a reservation at one of his favorite local spots or surprise him with a new restaurant he’s been wanting to try.
Don’t Forget the Card
A handwritten note still goes a long way. Whether you’re telling Dad thanks for his wisdom, his patience, or his legendary chili recipe, put it in writing. If you want to follow tradition, wear a red rose to honor a living father or a white rose to remember one who’s passed.
Celebrate Father’s Day Your Way
No two dads are exactly alike, but every dad deserves a little recognition. Central Kentucky offers plenty of ways to make Father’s Day special, from prime rib feasts to bourbon tours to thoughtful gifts from local businesses. However you choose to celebrate, make it a day filled with appreciation, laughter, and maybe a little bit of Kentucky spirit.
Sources: awarenessdays.com, nationaldaycalendar.com, honeywoodrestaurant.com
Header Image Source: Toa Heftiba on Unsplash
