Forget the Socks: Why More Dads Are Choosing Play This Father’s Day
For decades, Father’s Day has been synonymous with socks, ties, and novelty mugs. Still, a growing number of families are choosing gifts that tap into nostalgia, shared interests, and the joy of play.
From LEGO builds and Hot Wheels collectibles to movie-inspired merchandise and family games, many of today’s Father’s Day gifts are designed to be treasured, displayed, and enjoyed. For many dads, they represent more than just presents; they are keepsakes that celebrate passions, memories, and moments shared with family.
According to Toys R Us, Father’s Day gifting is increasingly being shaped by a desire for connection. Families are moving beyond conventional presents and choosing gifts that encourage shared experiences, celebrate personal interests, and create opportunities for meaningful time together. The trend reflects a broader shift towards gifting rooted in nostalgia, play, and relationship-building rather than purely in practicality.
While children have long been recognised as the primary beneficiaries of play, research shows that play is equally important for adults. It can reduce stress, strengthen relationships, improve wellbeing and create meaningful opportunities for connection in an increasingly busy and digital world.
Catherine Jacoby, Marketing Manager at Toys R Us South Africa, says:
“Many dads appreciate gifts that reflect who they are and the things they love. We’re seeing more families choose gifts that tap into shared interests, nostalgia and the joy of spending time together.”
“Whether it’s adding a special collectible to a display shelf, building something side-by-side, or introducing children to a hobby they’ve loved for years, these gifts create meaningful moments and lasting memories for both generations. From building a LEGO set together, racing Hot Wheels cars across the lounge floor or spending an afternoon immersed in a favourite movie franchise, those shared moments often become the most memorable gift of all.”
She adds that the shift is reflected in growing demand for products that appeal to both children and adults. LEGO continues to expand its range of advanced building sets aimed at older builders, while collectibles linked to major entertainment franchises such as Star Wars, Masters of the Universe, Marvel, Formula 1 and Pixar are increasingly finding their way into Father’s Day gift baskets.
“For many fathers, what is particularly special is when their passions are shared with the next generation,” she says. “Play is one of the most powerful ways families connect, creating moments where dads and children can bond over common interests and experiences.”
Toys R Us has identified several Father’s Day gifting trends emerging this year:
Build Together
Advanced LEGO sets, vehicle builds and construction projects that offer a shared activity rather than a one-time gift.
Collect Together
From Hot Wheels premium collections to movie-inspired collectibles, fathers and children are increasingly building collections side by side.
Fandom-Fuelled Play
Franchises such as Star Wars, Spider-Man, Masters of the Universe and Toy Story continue to inspire cross-generational play and collecting.
Games Night Returns
Board games, card games and family challenges are seeing renewed popularity as families look for screen-free ways to spend time together.
Jacoby notes that the trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards experiences and connection over consumption.
“Father’s Day doesn’t need to be complicated; the best gift is often simply creating the space to play together. Years from now, children are unlikely to remember another pair of socks or a new coffee mug,” she concludes. “They will remember the LEGO model they built with Dad, the races they won and lost, and the time they spent laughing together, and that’s the kind of gift that never goes out of fashion.”
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