Father's Day 2011 | Events and more dining specials

Going to brunch has almost become a cliché for celebrating with the parents—but if dining out is your scene, TOC has you covered for Father's Day meals. However, if this Father's Day is about shaking things up, there's more. For example, consider picking up the tab for an old-school shave for Pops—it'll make him feel like a high-roller. Then take a look down this list and see what you can work into your dad's weekend.

More dining specials:

Carnivale Treat Dad and the family to a how-to on Latin food. This interactive cooking lesson will be led by Carnivale executive chef David Dworshak.  If cooking isn't your forte, you can distract yourself with the complementary "Bloody Maria" before class. 702 W Fulton St (312-850-5005). Sat 18, noon–1:30pm; $25 per person.

Chens and Koi Chinese & Sushi When thinking Chinese food, the first thing that comes to mind is…Home Depot?  Bring the family out to either of these popular Asian cuisine spots, and Dad eats free off the Chinese Plate menu.  Along with the meal, he is automatically entered to win one $200 Home Depot gift card. Sun 19, 4–11pm.

El Cid It is time to spice Father's Day up, literally. Take part in this classic Mexican restaurant's "Pig and Swig" event.  While everyone enjoys a pig roast on the patio, dads receive a complimentary margarita with their meal. 2645 N Kedzie (773-395-0505). Sun 19, 2–5pm.

Lottie's Pub Bars can certainly be a part of this brunch-ridden day. Lottie's will be providing $4 20-ounce pints and half off burgers, sandwiches, and the kids' menu.  Dads will walk away with a free beer mug and one will win White Sox tickets, so Cubs fans be ware.  1925 W Cortland (773-489-0738). Sun 19, 11am–2am.

Events:

14@Stage773 This two-week celebration of the theater provides a perfect setting for some Father’s Day fun. Enjoy a matinee with the kiddies or an evening show strictly for Mom and Dad. Come honor Stage773 before it closes for renovations at the culmination of this festival. 1225 W Belmont (773-327-5252). Sat 18, 2pm & 8pm; $15–$20, kids $7.50.

Baby Wants Candy Put one of those ugly, child-bought ties to good use.  Baby Wants Candy is offering a $5 discount for dads and grads, but only if tickets are bought with dads wearing their most hideous tie and grads wearing their cap and/or gown to the Apollo Theater box office.  It's worth the get-up to see this critically acclaimed improvised musical. 2540 North Lincoln Avenue (773-935-6100). Fridays in June, 10am–8pm; $10.

Chicago Botanic Garden Why sit around and lounge on the couch this Father's Day? Get active and in touch with nature at the Father's Day Canoe Adventure.  Paddle along with the garden's aquatic biologist, Bob Kirschner, on a fun and educational tour of the city's lakes. 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe (847-835-5440). Sun 19, 9am, 11am & 1pm; $122.

Entertainment Cruises Experience the waters of Chicago, minus the exercise and plus the drinking. The Odyssey, Spirit of Chicago, and Mystic Blue are all offering cruises with music, performances and dining for families.  As a special gift, each cruise provides a complimentary cocktail strictly for the dads. It is certainly a nice way to view the scenery.  Sun 19, 11:30am–8:30pm; $52.90–$84.90, kids 40% off.

Oakbrook Center How about something that really revs Dad's engines? The Oakbrook Center is hosting the 43rd Annual Father's Day Classic Car Show. Come out for this one-day only showcase of more than 100 classic cars.  It is practically like getting an antique vehicle of your very own. 100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook (630-573-0700). Sun 19, 11am–6pm; free.

Ravinia Festival For the more musically inclined families, Ravinia Festival promises entertainment for everyone.  During the day, the Kraft Great Kids Festival will have activities for families and feature a performance from the Dirty Sock Funtime Band.  Later in the evening, Jazz legend Dave Brubeck will do a special Father's Day performance with his sons.  It is a way to stay outside all day and keep everyone amused.  418 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park (847-266-5000). Sun 19, 1 pm & 7pm; $10-$80.

Showplace Icon Theatre You can be a kid again! Well, not really.  Showplace is offering child admission prices for dads.  Use the money saved to purchase the delicious popcorn with real butter. 150 W Roosevelt Rd (312-564-2104). Sun 19; $7.50-$10.

State Street Barbers There is nothing better than getting a fresh cut while bonding with your son.  How about at half the price?  Visit any of the four State Street Barbers locations with your son and get his haircut free. Sat 18, 8am–5pm; Sun 19, 9am–5pm; $27.

Shopping deals:

Original Penguin Does your father's summer wardrobe consist of a bevy of topical button-ups and socks with sandals?  That can change with Original Penguin offering people the ability to "Urbanize their Daddies." This in-store event provides entertainment, snacks from Sweet Street Desserts, and buy-one get-one item 50% off. Also, those who register at Urban Daddy pre-event will receive a 30% VIP card and a gift with purchase. 901 N Ruse St (312-475-0792). Sat 19, noon–6pm.