Dad-themed Events at East Bay Parks

Father’s Day is on Sunday, June 19, so several Dad-themed events are planned in the East Bay Regional Parks.

Fathers in the Forest is a family-friendly stroll for youngsters and their dads (and moms) from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on June 19 at Redwood Regional Park in Oakland, led by naturalist Michael Charnofsky.

The walk starts at the Canyon Meadows staging area, which is at the end of Redwood Park’s entrance on Redwood Road about two miles past the intersection with Skyline Boulevard.

From there the group will wander the redwood groves, ending up at the park’s playground. The path is paved, suitable for strollers. For more information, call 510-544-3187.

Two more Father’s Day adventures are planned on June 19 at Garin Regional Park in Hayward, both led by naturalist Dino Labiste.

The first is fire-making without matches. During a program from 10 a.m. to noon, Dino will demonstrate how to start a safe, efficient campfire using a hand drill, an aluminum can, or even a water bottle.

Then from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. it’s atlatl time. Atlatls are prehistoric dart throwers with stone points. Participants can try their hand at hitting a target with one. It’s not easy.

Both programs meet at the Garin Barn Visitor Center. For safety reasons, both are for ages eight and up. Garin Park is at the end of Garin Avenue off Mission Boulevard in Hayward. For information, call 510-544-3220.