HELEN BACH: Father’s Day activities for the planning impaired

If your Dad is a festival kind of guy, the 16th annual Buffalo River Fest is going on right now at River Fest Park. Running until midnight tonight and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow, in the park located at 249 Ohio Street, Buffalo — near Michigan Avenue, goings-on include the popular Rigidized Metals River Fest Regatta, a waterfront photo and memorabilia display, “I Got It” Bingo, food and refreshments, a kids area, vendors, historic walking tours, live entertainment, a Father’s Day fishing contest.

Maybe your Dad likes hanging out with his best friend … making today’s Hertel Avenue Great Dog Walk the perfect tree to bark up. Treat Pop and his canine companion to a bite or a drink at any of the numerous dog-friendly patios along Hertel. Or, find your Father and his furry friend the perfect gift at any of the participating shops. Participating businesses are easy spot, thanks to red water bowls provided by Daisy’s Dog House for the event, which is sponsored by the Hertel Business Association.

Given that the weather is going to be glorious all weekend … and pretty darned hot, perhaps Dad would like to hang out and have a couple of cold ones. Easy! Check out the Buffalo Brewer’s Festival at the Outer Harbor from 3 to 7 p.m. at Wilkeson Point, 200 Fuhrmann Boulevard. Twenty local breweries will be on hand, as will local farms, vendors and chefs. A variety of tickets are available, including Designated Driver. Online sales have ended, obviously, but tickets are available at the venue according to the website. And, don’t forget the Smuttynose After Party at Pizza Plant Canalside, featuring head brewer Charles Ireland: Sip some Smuttynose and learn stuff about hops with your Pops!

There is also the Resurgence Brewing Company’s Second Anniversary party today, opening with the Black and Blues Trio from 2 to 5 p.m., followed by more live music. Their featured brews are the very hot-weather friendly Mangose, Tropical Wit and Summer Saison.