If you have a dad in your life who is approaching the big 5-0, you might, like me, be on a desperate hunt. On the lookout for gifts that tell Dad he is all things good, honourable, and decent. Also, if you’re anything like me, you may have hit a roadblock or two along the way.
Truthfully, as several of my family members and friends approach this momentous birthday, finding “the perfect gift” for such a special occasion weighs heavily on my mind.
Chasing this perfect gift for Dad dream is not for the faint-hearted. While it’s crucial to acknowledge significant milestone birthdays, it can often feel like a bit of a test. Trying to translate your many decades of relationship into gifts that show how well you know him and bring an excited smile to his face.
Adding to this challenge is that many men at this age seemingly “have everything”—or so they claim. These folks thwart our gifting mission, insisting they “only need our love”. But this modesty makes the quest for a meaningful, affordable, and worthy gift all the more daunting. But it’s not just about the gift—it’s the inspiration behind it. How do you honour the greatest memories and accomplishments that perfectly capture someone’s five decades of existence? How do you find something that simultaneously tells Dad you know who he is and offers just the right way to honour him? No pressure, right?
Finally – just last week – my husband quoted a character from one of his favourite movies. It was then – even as his children rolled their eyes at his imitation of Nicholas Cage hands poised mid-air as he exclaimed “Let’s ride!” – inspiration struck!
Movies Dad loves can inspire the best 50th birthday gift ideas!
If you, like me, have a spouse, husband, or father who gives their best life advice through quoting lines from their favourite (occasionally terrible) movies. Or who gets hyped when a film they love comes on Cable TV — even though it’s available on Netflix or Disney+ and they own a 20-year-old DVD they never take out of the DVD ‘drawer’, and they have watched it no less than 80 times— you might have a bonafide movie lover on your hands.
If so, I got you.
Still struggling to find the right gift? Let us offer some inspiration! For the movie buff dad, there might be no better way to come up with the perfect 50th birthday gift idea than by drawing from his favourite films.
Inspired by some of my husband’s favourites, I’ve crafted a list of unique 50th birthday gift ideas to make Dad’s milestone birthday truly memorable.
Before I get into it, in the name of transparency, please note that this post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through these links will result in a small commission for myself.
Celebrate Dad’s inner Mike Lowrey
While Bad Boys is packed with thrilling chase and action scenes, it also captivates dads who appreciate high style and sophistication. If your Dad is more Mike Lowrey than Marcus Miles Burnett the perfect present might be one that gives a nod to his sense of style.
A beautiful personalized gift might be perfect. Especially for those Dads who want to celebrate their suave side for their 50th birthday.
Nothing screams classic elegance like made-to-order items. Personalized 50th birthday gifts come in every price range and suit many styles. No need to worry, you don’t have to have ‘Casa de Mike Lowrey’ money to find one-of-a-kind items. Many options exist.
One Black-owned shop on Etsy is UK-based Kingsley Leather. They ship worldwide and offer timeless handmade pieces to elevate and enhance Dad’s everyday look. Leatherworker and founder, Kingsley Thompson prides himself on creating leather items which – like our dads – gain character as they age.
From personalized cufflinks to stunning yet simple leather cardholders, Dad will appreciate these gifts’ quality, customization and simple elegance.
If your budget can take it, consider a gift from MADE Leather. From duffle bags to accessories, these handcrafted leather pieces would help Dad make a stunning statement.
If the dad in your life has a taste for the finer things, consider gifting him a luxury watch. For a dad who believes that “Time Should Be Spent Doing What You Love,” a watch from Benson Watch Company is a great choice. This elegant timepiece will complement any style. It also shows your appreciation that your busy dad always commits to spending quality time with you.
The car movie Dad …yeah, you knew he’d be here.
I have sat through every single installment of the Fast and Furious movie franchise.
Some would argue that this multi-decade faithfulness to a franchise I probably wouldn’t give the time of day if it wasn’t for my husband is gift enough. But here we are.
If you have a dad in your life who is enthralled by fast chase scenes, unintelligible dialogue and physics-defying stunts – bringing these experiences to life for their birthday might be one of the best things you can do for him.
In as safe away as possible in the hopes he might get another 50 years on the planet.
Across Ontario, many businesses offer Dad a fun way to experience a bit of the Fast life.
Supercar Experiences offers several locations and experiences. Giving Dad a “Fast Five experience” gives him access to cars that will make any car enthusiast’s heart race.
If Dad is more of an Italian Job kind of fellow, he can access cars like Lamborghini Huracán and the McLaren 570. Don’t worry, with the gift of racing in their lives car enthusiasts are almost guaranteed a good experience.
Of course, for some Dads you might be wise to give them more of a Gone in 60 Seconds experience.
For these folks, check out Muscle Car Racing experiences near you. These are offered throughout the summer and early fall and allow dad access to Mustangs, Chargers and a race track. This gift might help Dad recreate scenes worthy of Eleanor on racetracks around the province.
Gifts for Dads with “a need…a need for speed” (No, I couldn’t help myself)
I know many Dads who have not stopped quoting Maverick, Goose or Ice since they first laid eyes on Top Gun decades ago. Then flocked to the theatre with the updated 2022 release. For the father with “a need, a need for speed” consider gifting him a flying experience.
Flying lessons are giftable experiences that are available in most major cities. Breakaway Experiences is one company that offers flying lessons, helicopter rides and even hot air balloon rides. These adventures can offer Dad a unique gift and a thrilling way to experience the joy of flight.
Whether he’s always dreamed of learning to fly or it’s a new idea, a flying lesson could be a memorable experience. Lessons allow Dad to take control and feel the excitement of being in the air.
Now, for those dads who love speed but maybe not the height, consider a solid backup option that keeps him firmly on the ground. Many places that offer flight lessons also offer flight simulators. These experiences provide a rush of adrenaline while keeping Dad’s feet firmly on the ground.
Celebrate the golfer Dad — whether he’s a Legend or not
Golf-themed gifts might seem cliché, but they’re almost prerequisites if golf is one of your dad’s hobbies. Whether Dad is more of a Big Boi, Who’s Your Caddy sort or a Bagger Vance kind of dude – if he loves spending his weekends on the golf course, consider gifting him something that enhances his golfing experience.
Finding luxury items for golfers suitable for a milestone birthday is not difficult. There are also plenty of gifts at a more modest budget, such as golf balls or tees. The trick is to find unique 50th birthday gifts. Those gifts that are a bit out of the ordinary or that Dad wouldn’t normally invest in for himself. Etsy has a great range of golf gifts, including this Personalized Golf Gift set. Personalizing this allows you to add a unique and thoughtful touch to Dad’s gift.
Several Black-owned businesses offer gear that celebrates Dad’s love of golf.
Trap Golf
offers golf gear for the decerning golf dad’s taste. From Sweatshirts to unique markers and clip towels Dad can have a uniquely dope look on the links.
Choose from high-quality golf clubs and accessories to stylish golf attire and personalized items. Warning — these gifts for the golf-loving Dad may not improve his game! But gifts that support this hobby will make him feel special and appreciated on his milestone birthday.
Gifts that help that Creed-loving Dad motivated to stay in shape
If dad can’t get enough of films like Creed or its classic predecessor Rocky that might give you some important gift-giving inspiration.
For the dad who’s known for spending time in the gym or prioritizing his health, this can inspire great gift ideas.
A lifestyle inspired by Creed makes a membership to a local boxing club a fantastic gift for Dad. A membership might be the perfect way to keep Dad motivated to stay in fighting shape. And I’ll bet if you offer to join with him, you’ll get the elusive smile that you’re longing for.
If going out isn’t his style, consider gifting Dad with a home gym. Especially if he might not otherwise invest in himself.
For Canadian Dads, Tempo Complete home gym offers high-quality equipment, a sleek design and an intense workout. The out-of-the-ordinary look of this gym and the guaranteed cool factor allow your gift to serve a dual purpose. Keeping Dad true to his fitness goals and giving him some bragging rights.
If you’re located in the United States, consider the Tonal Home Gym for Dad. It works for Lebron James, it might work for the dad in your life.
Of course, if he’s not used to spoiling himself, and you are looking to top off the athletically themed gift, some new Athletic wear is usually always welcome.
Even if the Dad you are celebrating is more Dodgeball than Creed, they may enjoy slipping into comfortable style! In either case, check out Actively Black sportswear. This Black-Owned activewear brand offers just the right blend of high-quality athletic wear and style that Dad will be proud to sport in his home or at the gym.
Gift Dad some ‘streetwear’ style
No matter the era, at some point streetwear makes a statement in the movies that Dads love. Whether he’s got an old-school love affair with era-defining Boyz n the Hood or revels in the updated sophistication featured in Black-ish (yes, I know it’s a television show and not a movie but work with me!), there’s plenty of room to honour the dad who loves street culture clothing.
If you are unsure of size or want to give more than a gift card, maybe take Dad for lunch and a shopping spree at a great streetwear shop. That way he gets to indulge in time with you and comfortable streetwear.
Of course, I have a few Black-owned recommendations you can check out…
High-profile street culture brand Awake NY combines comfort with bold designs—perfect for making a statement. They ship to anywhere in the world from their site and can also be found in many retail locations.
If you think “sophisticated fusion” might better suit him, Fear of God Clothing has a head-to-toe collection of luxury streetwear to check out for Dad. With everything from hoodies and tees to bomber jackets and shoes, you might find something to reflect Dad’s unique personality and taste.
Of course, top any look for Dad off with a little something from Brimzofficial. This independent hat shop offers iconic and unique styles. Located in Toronto they ship basically everywhere.
Helping Dad elevate his style not only pays homage to his favourite movies (and TV shows!) but also aligns with his fashion sense, making him look as good as he feels as he starts this next half-century. It might be the perfect choice for his milestone birthday.
A final touch makes Dad’s gift just right
No matter the gift, or the movie that inspires it, don’t forget to add a personal touch with just the right card.
Mint Greetings gift cards offer the perfect 50th birthday card to top off Dad’s gift. With greeting cards that celebrate and showcase Dad, it will be a unique finishing touch to your thoughtfully chosen gift.
Thoughtful 50th birthday gift ideas because Dad is worth all the fuss
Ultimately, the perfect 50th birthday gift for Dad resonates with his passions, hobbies and the memories you’ve had.
For me, while the family enjoys a good laugh over my husband’s relentless obsession with some truly terrible films, we are grateful that they inspired some meaningful 50th birthday gifts. Whether the Dad in your life is an action movie buff, a stylish trendsetter, a speed enthusiast, a fitness fanatic, or a golf lover, there’s a thoughtful 50th birthday gift idea out there that will make his milestone birthday unforgettable.
Of course, if Dad is a true movie buff and craving time with you, put on some popcorn and enjoy one of our favourite Iconic Movies with him! The gift of time with him and sharing these movies will be one neither of you will regret. And it might inspire more ideas!
By drawing inspiration from Dad’s favourite films and tailoring your choice to his unique tastes, you can show him just how much he means to you. These ideas can work as a birthday present, a Father’s Day gift or for any reason to celebrate Dad. Remember, it’s not just about the gift itself, but the thoughtful effort behind it that will make Dad feel truly special. Celebrate his 50 years with a gift that honours his journey and look forward to many more adventures ahead.
Share any unique ideas for gifts for Dad’s 50th in the comments!
Happy gifting, and may your dad’s 50th birthday be as extraordinary as he is.
