If you’re in Greece this weekend- either because you live here or are visiting- Father’s Day (Sunday, June 15, 2025) might arrive before you’ve had a chance to plan anything. With most shops closed on Sundays, many people wake up that morning giftless—but that doesn’t mean you can’t still celebrate in style. In fact, the best gestures don’t require buying anything at all.
Start with what you already have: your time, attention, and imagination. A simple handwritten note or a homemade card goes a long way, especially if it includes a personal memory or a reason you’re grateful for your dad. Many Greeks mark the day with exactly this kind of quiet affection—“Χρόνια Πολλά, μπαμπά” (“Happy Father’s Day, Dad”) paired with a phone call, a warm embrace, or a laid-back family meal.
Food, of course, is central to any celebration in Greece. Whip up his favorite dish—whether it’s souvlaki, a Greek omelette with feta and tomato, or something sweet like galaktoboureko—and share it together at the family table. If you’re short on ingredients or time, even a fresh Greek salad and a coffee served with care can make the morning feel special. Add a few photos, a song playlist, or a backgammon match (tavli) on the balcony, and you’ve already done more than enough.
If you’re feeling creative, record a short video message with your siblings or kids saying what you love about Dad. Or create a “Dad’s Day” coupon booklet with IOUs like “One free beach outing” or “Dinner on me—your choice of taverna.” These thoughtful gestures are fun, personal, and memorable—and they’re entirely free.
Want to get out of the house? Plan a low-key day trip. Greece offers endless options: a drive up to a mountain village for snacks and views, a picnic by the sea, or a walk through shaded forest trails. In some areas, like parks in Attica or Thessaloniki, local municipalities are hosting small Father’s Day-themed events this weekend, complete with outdoor games and photo corners for families.
And if you still feel the need to buy something special, there are quick, stress-free ways to do so—without needing to leave home.
Digital gifts are a lifesaver: an e-book or audiobook via Kindle or Audible, a Spotify Premium subscription, or a streaming package like Netflix or Cosmote Sport. These take minutes to gift and can be enjoyed immediately. For the lifelong learner, MasterClass or Skillshare subscriptions let him dive into everything from negotiating skills to Greek cooking to photography.
You can also order a more traditional gift online from a Greek e-shop—and print out a picture of what’s coming. Wrap it with a note that says “Surprise on the way,” and you’ve made the moment special without rushing through a store.
Still unsure what’s best? Think about what fits your father’s personality. Is he a beach dad, a coffee aficionado, a tinkerer, or a classic papou who just wants a quiet family meal? Whatever his style, what matters most- especially in Greece- is the act of showing up, slowing down, and spending time together.
Father’s Day may not be a long-standing Greek tradition, but it’s one that aligns beautifully with Greek values: family and shared time around the table. So even if you forgot to buy something, you haven’t missed the chance to show dad you love him. You’re right on time.
