Father’s Day in Washington DC: Celebrate Dad with Experiences, Dining and History

Washington DC is more than the seat of government; it is a city that comes alive each June with celebrations for fathers and father figures. The third Sunday in June (June 21 2026) offers warm weather, lush parks, world‑class museums, creative dining and plenty of opportunities to make memories. Whether you are planning a trip from across the country or live in the region, this guide explains how to create a meaningful Father’s Day weekend in the nation’s capital. It draws on the city’s distinct neighborhoods, diverse culinary scene, rich history and vibrant cultural institutions to help you design a trip that will make Dad feel appreciated. In the first paragraph you will learn why Washington DC is an ideal destination and find clear directions for the weekend. Subsequent sections offer deep dives into brunch spots, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, sports, shopping and wellness, culminating with specials at Hotel Washington—the closest hotel to the White House, positioned at the edge of the White House Lawn.

Father’s Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is an invitation to explore new experiences together. In Washington DC you can hike through woodlands, tour historic homes, cruise past iconic monuments, learn about pioneering athletes and indulge in rooftop brunches with panoramic views. Restaurants across the city offer Father’s Day menus featuring local seafood, steak and craft cocktails. Langston Golf Course and East Potomac Golf Course welcome families to tee off together, while Rock Creek Park beckons with trails and hidden bridges. Museums open their doors to reveal stories of heritage and innovation. From shopping for bespoke gifts to relaxing in world‑class spas, the city caters to every interest. This article organizes those possibilities into easy‑to‑follow sections so you can craft a weekend that suits Dad’s tastes.

Father’s Day Brunches and Dining in DC

Before midday heat arrives, treat Dad to a brunch or special meal. Washington DC’s culinary landscape balances tradition and innovation, from iconic saloons to modern rooftop lounges. Many restaurants craft special Father’s Day menus, sometimes with smoked cocktails or seasonal produce, offering a memorable start to the day. The city’s diversity means you can choose between hearty Southern fare, farm‑to‑table dishes, contemporary American cuisine and global flavors. Advance reservations are recommended, especially on Father’s Day weekend.

The VUE rooftop restaurant at Hotel Washington provides an elevated experience in every sense. Located steps from the White House, VUE’s terrace wraps around the building, offering sweeping views of the White House and Washington Monument. On June 21 2026 the restaurant hosts a Father’s Day brunch from 11 am to 2 pm. The à la carte menu features jumbo lump crab cake Benedict with Old Bay hollandaise, Iberico hanger steak with maple‑roasted apples, braised short rib with creamy parmesan polenta and a lobster omelet with Boursin cheese. Because VUE will be closed for dinner service that evening for a private event, brunch is the best time to enjoy the panoramic rooftop. Reserve a table through the restaurant’s online booking portal. For a more casual evening, hotel guests can stop by the lounge for cocktails on another day.

Nearby, Founding Farmers draws both locals and visitors with a commitment to scratch‑made cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. The restaurant serves hearty dishes such as chicken and waffles, slow‑roasted meatloaf and farm‑fresh salads. Because every ingredient is prepared in‑house—from breads and pasta to sauces—the flavors are vibrant. While Founding Farmers offers Father’s Day specials, its everyday menu includes craft cocktails and regional beers. Reservations ensure a relaxed experience.

If Dad enjoys rustic charm and robust flavors, book a table at St. Anselm. This restaurant is known for its hunting‑inspired décor and wood‑fired steaks. The kitchen specializes in cuts like rib‑eye and porterhouse, served with seasonal sides. A curated list of craft beers and whiskey flights appeals to fathers who appreciate a good pairing. The atmosphere is lively but comfortable, making it ideal for groups.

Blue Duck Tavern offers a Michelin‑recognized dining experience. The Chef’s Table tasting menu showcases ingredients from regional purveyors, served in individual casserole dishes. Fathers with a taste for fine dining will enjoy the seasonal dishes, such as herb‑roasted lamb, roasted root vegetables and artisanal cheeses. A sommelier‑guided wine pairing elevates the meal. Reservations are essential.

While those restaurants provide elevated experiences, there are many other options for Father’s Day. Brunch cruise on the Potomac includes a buffet, live DJ and open‑air decks, offering exclusive views of the Lincoln Memorial, The Wharf and Old Town Alexandria. Casual eateries like food halls at Union Market offer everything from tacos to oysters. Craft breweries serve brunch with beer pairings. No matter the venue, Washington DC’s dining scene ensures Dad starts his day satisfied.

Summary of notable Father’s Day restaurants

• VUE rooftop restaurant at Hotel Washington – Panoramic rooftop brunch with crab cake Benedict, Iberico hanger steak, braised short rib and lobster omelet; reservation recommended.
• Founding Farmers – Scratch‑made dishes, locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices.
• St. Anselm – Wood‑fired steaks and hunting‑inspired décor; craft beers and whiskey flights.
• Blue Duck Tavern – Chef’s Table tasting menu with regional ingredients and wine pairing.
• Potomac brunch cruise – Buffet brunch with live DJ and skyline views.

Outdoor and Recreational Activities for Dad

After brunch, stretch your legs and explore the great outdoors. Washington DC offers diverse landscapes, from tree‑lined trails to waterfront vistas. Whether Dad prefers an invigorating hike, a round of golf or a leisurely bike ride, the city’s outdoor offerings provide quality time together.

Rock Creek Park is a natural oasis within the city and a classic Father’s Day choice. Established in 1890, the 1,754‑acre park offers miles of trails that wind through forests, meadows and streams. Families can embark on an adventurous trek through this green expanse, discovering hidden gems like the historic Pierce Mill or the picturesque Boulder Bridge. Pack a picnic lunch and find a quiet clearing where you can relax and listen to birdsong. If Dad is a history buff, stop by the Old Stone House, the oldest unchanged building in Washington DC, located in nearby Georgetown.

For dads who enjoy golf, Washington’s public courses provide scenic fairways with historic significance. Langston Golf Course sits on Benning Road in Northeast DC, at the end of the streetcar line. This historic 18‑hole course was named after John Mercer Langston, the first African American elected to public office, and it serves as a celebrated beacon of African American golf heritage. Playing a round here becomes both a sporting challenge and a lesson in resilience. The course offers rolling hills, water hazards and a driving range equipped with Toptracer technology. Rental clubs are available for visitors, and Melva’s Kitchen in the clubhouse serves hearty breakfast and lunch fare. Tee times fill quickly on Father’s Day weekend, so reserve ahead through the playDCgolf website.

Across the river, East Potomac Golf Course offers both 18‑hole and 9‑hole layouts, as well as a miniature golf course. Families can choose to play a full round or practice at the driving range. Because East Potomac sits on Hains Point near the Tidal Basin, golfers enjoy views of the Jefferson Memorial and Potomac River. Beginners may prefer the par‑three course, while seasoned players can test their skills on the championship layout.

Not all dads want to commit to 18 holes; mini‑golf provides a lighter‑hearted alternative. Swingers and Puttery DC reinvent mini‑golf with gourmet street food and craft cocktails. Each course features creatively themed holes, neon lights and music. Groups can split into teams for friendly competition before sampling sliders, tacos or artisanal pizzas from on‑site vendors. Because lines may form on weekends, booking a tee time is wise.

Cycling is another engaging way to see the city. Rent a hybrid or electric bike from Unlimited Biking or use Capital Bikeshare to ride along the National Mall. Bike past the Washington Monument, the Capitol, the World War II Memorial and the new World War I Memorial. For a longer ride, follow the Mount Vernon Trail along the Potomac River to see views of Roosevelt Island, Regan National Airport and Old Town Alexandria. Helmets and locks are included with rentals. Guided tours provide commentary on history and architecture, while self‑guided riders can explore at their own pace.

Outdoor options at a glance

History, Museums and Tours

Washington DC’s monuments and museums provide a window into America’s past and a foundation for meaningful family conversations. Visiting these sites on Father’s Day can inspire reflections on heritage and leadership. Many institutions are free and open seven days a week, allowing families to craft a schedule that suits their interests.

Start with a tour of Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, a 25‑acre estate in Northwest DC. Once the home of philanthropist Marjorie Merriweather Post, Hillwood features French and Russian decorative arts, 18th‑century furniture and manicured gardens. Dad can stroll through the Japanese garden, rose garden and greenhouse. Seasonal exhibitions often display Fabergé eggs or couture gowns. Guided tours provide context on Post’s life and charitable work.

Nearby, Tudor Place introduces families to Federal‑style architecture and the lives of the Peter family, descendants of Martha Washington’s granddaughter. The house contains artifacts from six generations, including furniture, silver and portraits. Outdoor spaces include boxwood gardens and a bowling green. The site hosts special events, such as historic cooking demonstrations and garden tours.

At Decatur House, a historic residence on Lafayette Square, visitors learn about the life of naval hero Stephen Decatur and his wife Susan. The house later served as the headquarters of the American Red Cross and now offers exhibits on domestic slavery and urban slavery in Washington DC. Because it sits steps from the White House, the property provides glimpses into political and social life in the early 19th century.

If Dad loves sports history, head to the National Museum of African American History and Culture and explore the “Sports: Leveling the Playing Field” exhibit. The display celebrates trailblazers like Jackie Robinson, Wilma Rudolph, LeBron James and Serena Williams. It examines how Black athletes overcame barriers, challenged stereotypes and changed the landscape of American sports. Multimedia displays and interactive stations allow visitors to hear firsthand accounts of perseverance and triumph. Entry is free, but timed tickets may be required, especially on weekends.

Museums along the National Mall also offer compelling experiences. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum displays lunar modules, airplanes and spacecraft. The Museum of Natural History houses dinosaur fossils and a gem gallery featuring the Hope Diamond. At the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, families can confront the horrors of the Holocaust while learning about resilience and human rights. Because each museum requires time, select two or three based on Dad’s interests.

Guided tours can enrich visits. Consider a walking tour of the National Mall focusing on presidential memorials—Lincoln, Jefferson and FDR—or an African American history tour that highlights U Street’s jazz heritage and the Shaw neighborhood’s role in civil rights. Tour companies often offer Father’s Day discounts and provide expert guides who weave historical facts with personal stories.

Historic and cultural highlights

• Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens – Decorative arts collections, manicured gardens and seasonal exhibitions.
• Tudor Place – Federal‑style mansion with artifacts from six generations.
• Decatur House – Naval hero’s residence near the White House; exhibits on urban slavery.
• National Museum of African American History and Culture – Sports exhibit celebrating pioneering athletes.
• Smithsonian museums – Air and Space Museum, Museum of Natural History and others along the Mall.
• Guided tours – National Mall memorials tour; African American history tour.

Cruises, Breweries and Unique Experiences

Sometimes the best memories are made while gliding on water or sipping craft beverages. Washington DC’s rivers and breweries present opportunities for fathers to relax and explore in unconventional ways.

One of the most memorable experiences is a Father’s Day brunch cruise on the Potomac River. Offered by City Experiences, the cruise features a buffet brunch, live DJ and climate‑controlled interior with open‑air decks. As you dine, you’ll soak in the Washington DC skyline and enjoy exclusive views of landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, The Wharf and Old Town Alexandria. Because the cruise includes a DJ, the atmosphere feels festive, blending sightseeing with celebration. Booking in advance is essential, as sailings often sell out.

Craft beer enthusiasts can head to the Bluejacket brewery in the Navy Yard. Housed in a renovated 19th‑century boilermaker shop, the three‑story brewpub produces a constantly rotating selection of beers. Tastings showcase lagers, ales, stouts and experimental brews paired with seasonal small plates. Brewery tours reveal the brewing process, from malt preparation to fermentation and barrel aging. Bluejacket often hosts Father’s Day events, such as guided tastings or limited‑release beers.

If Dad prefers spirits, consider a visit to a local distillery. Ivy City’s distillery district includes craft producers of gin, whiskey and vodka. Tours explain the distillation process and end with samples of small‑batch spirits. Some distilleries invite guests to blend their own bottles, creating personalized Father’s Day souvenirs. For a more interactive experience, sign up for a cocktail‑making class where bartenders teach techniques like muddling, shaking and garnishing.

Unique experiences extend beyond drinks. Rooftop film screenings at The Wharf or union Market pair movies with city views. Segway tours allow families to cover more ground than walking while still enjoying the fresh air. If Dad enjoys puzzles, book an escape room in Chinatown or Alexandria, where teamwork and problem‑solving deliver laughs and bonding. Consider a kayaking trip on the Anacostia or Potomac Rivers, where guides will point out wildlife and share stories about river ecology.

Noteworthy unique experiences

• Potomac River brunch cruise – Buffet brunch with live DJ; skyline and monument views.
• Bluejacket brewery tour – Rotating selection of craft beers in a historic boilermaker shop.
• Distillery visits – Learn distillation processes and sample small‑batch spirits.
• Rooftop film screenings – Movies under the stars at The Wharf or Union Market.
• Segway tours – Cover long distances with guided commentary.
• Escape rooms – Collaborative puzzle‑solving experiences for families.
• Kayaking trips – Paddle along the Anacostia or Potomac Rivers.

Sports and Entertainment

Washington DC’s sports scene offers something for every father—whether he loves baseball, motorsports or watching classic cars. Tickets to a game or event add excitement to the weekend and give families a shared cheering experience.

Major League Baseball at Nationals Park is a summertime tradition. The Washington Nationals often schedule home games around Father’s Day. The ballpark sits on the waterfront in the Navy Yard district and offers local food options like Chesapeake crab cakes and Half Smokes. Arrive early to watch batting practice or tour the stadium. After the game, you can stroll along the riverfront or dine at nearby restaurants.

For something unique, plan a trip to the Father’s Day Antique Car Show at the Sully Historic Site in Chantilly, Virginia (about 40 minutes from downtown). The event features hundreds of classic and antique cars, live music, food vendors and tours of the historic house. Fathers who appreciate automotive history will enjoy chatting with car owners and seeing models from the early 20th century to muscle cars from the 1960s. Tickets typically include admission to the house museum.

Sports beyond baseball are available as well. Attend a DC United soccer match at Audi Field for high‑energy action. Catch a Washington Mystics basketball game at the Entertainment & Sports Arena if your father enjoys the WNBA. At the Capital One Arena, the Washington Wizards may host off‑season events or alumni games. Check schedules as Father’s Day approaches.

For fathers who enjoy live music, Washington DC’s summer concert season offers outdoor shows at venues such as Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts and The Anthem. From classic rock to jazz, there are concerts throughout the weekend. Some venues allow picnics, while others offer full‑service dining.

Sports and entertainment options

• Washington Nationals baseball game – Family‑friendly ballpark on the waterfront.
• Antique Car Show – Hundreds of classic cars, live music and tours.
• DC United or Washington Mystics game – Soccer or basketball excitement.
• Outdoor concerts – Performances at Wolf Trap, The Anthem and other venues.

Shopping and Gift Ideas

Finding the perfect gift can be as meaningful as spending the day together. Washington DC and its suburbs provide numerous options for bespoke presents that celebrate Dad’s interests. From handmade jewelry to custom suits, you can select a gift that he will cherish long after Father’s Day.

Adeler Jewelers has crafted one‑of‑a‑kind jewelry pieces for more than 50 years. Located in Great Falls, Virginia, the family‑owned boutique uses rare gemstones and precious metals to create bespoke rings, cuff links and bracelets. A signature piece—like an 18‑karat yellow gold hammered cuff—can elevate Dad’s wardrobe and become a heirloom. The shop’s experienced designers will work with you to customize a creation that matches his personality.

For watch enthusiasts, Liljenquist & Beckstead offers designer timepieces from brands such as Rolex, Cartier and Tudor. The store’s consultants help clients choose between classic leather straps, metal bracelets or modern digital interfaces. Many watches come with extended warranties and service packages. A timepiece makes a lasting reminder of Father’s Day and can become an everyday accessory.

Those seeking tailored clothing can visit The Tailored Man, where skilled craftsmen cut custom suits using premium fabrics from European mills. Measurements and fittings ensure a perfect fit, while personal stylists guide choices of lapels, linings and buttons. Because custom garments require production time, plan your visit well ahead of the holiday. For dads who already own suits, the shop offers expert alterations that extend the life of their favorite pieces.

Beyond high‑end items, Washington DC’s markets and boutiques offer thoughtful gifts. At Eastern Market, you can find handmade pottery, leather goods and gourmet jams. Union Market hosts local artisans selling prints, candles and kitchenware. Book lovers will enjoy browsing Politics and Prose bookstore for signed copies or rare editions. To add a personal touch, consider creating a photo album of your Father’s Day weekend.

Gift ideas list

• Custom jewelry from Adeler Jewelers – Bespoke rings, cuff links and bracelets.
• Designer watch from Liljenquist & Beckstead – Luxury timepieces with service packages.
• Tailored suit from The Tailored Man – Personalized suits or expert alterations.
• Local market finds – Pottery, art prints, specialty foods and books.
• Personalized photo album – Compile memories from your weekend.

Spa and Wellness Treatments

After days of exploring, Dad may appreciate some restorative time. Washington DC’s spas and wellness centers offer specialized treatments that cater to men’s needs, from deep‑tissue massages to grooming services. Choosing a spa experience demonstrates care for his well‑being and allows him to relax before returning to his routine.

At the Spa at Hotel Washington, Father’s Day packages provide targeted relaxation. The Dad De‑Stress Package combines a therapeutic massage with aromatherapy and a scalp treatment to release tension. Dad’s Power Hour focuses on muscle recovery through stretching and targeted massage, ideal for active fathers. The Men’s Ultimate Recovery includes a full‑body massage, facial and sports foot treatment. Treatments can be booked individually or combined, and guests have access to relaxation lounges and rainfall showers. Reserve a package through the spa’s online portal. Massage therapists tailor pressure and techniques to each guest, ensuring an experience that meets his comfort level.

Other wellness options include yoga classes at the Smithsonian’s Gardens or meditation sessions at wellness studios around the city. Outdoor enthusiasts may prefer a morning jog around the National Arboretum or a stand‑up paddleboarding lesson on the Potomac River. Choose an activity that aligns with Dad’s lifestyle and introduces him to new methods of self‑care.

Hotel Washington Specials: VUE and Spa

A memorable Father’s Day weekend deserves a memorable stay. Hotel Washington, often called The Best Hotel in Washington DC, combines classic elegance with modern luxury. Its location on 15th Street NW places guests steps from the White House and within walking distance of the National Mall, Smithsonian museums and monuments. The property’s architecture features original 1917 Beaux‑Arts details blended with contemporary design. Many rooms offer views of the White House lawn, the Washington Monument and the Jefferson Memorial. Amenities include a fitness center, valet parking, concierge services and pet‑friendly accommodations.

VUE, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar, becomes the centerpiece of the Father’s Day celebration. On June 21 2026, brunch reservations are available from 11 am to 2 pm, with the restaurant closing for dinner service that evening. The Father’s Day menu includes:

• Jumbo lump crab cake Benedict with Old Bay hollandaise and crispy fingerling potatoes.
• Iberico hanger steak served with maple‑roasted apples, crispy fingerling potatoes and a sunny‑side‑up egg.
• Braised short rib accompanied by creamy parmesan polenta, roasted cipollini onions, bordelaise sauce and crispy herbs.
• Lobster omelet featuring fines herbes, Boursin cheese, chive beurre blanc and breakfast potatoes.
• Smoked Angel’s Envy cocktails crafted tableside for a smoky twist on bourbon.

These dishes complement VUE’s standard brunch offerings of seasonal salads, pastries and desserts. The panoramic view spans from the White House to the U.S. Capitol, making it an unforgettable backdrop. Because seating is limited, guests should secure their spot through the reservation link.

The Spa at Hotel Washington rounds out the hotel’s Father’s Day experience. Booking a package grants access to the spa lounge, steam rooms and rainfall showers. Fathers can relax before or after brunch with a massage or facial, then retire to a luxurious room with plush bedding. Guests staying at the hotel also enjoy priority booking for VUE and spa treatments. To plan your stay and explore room options, visit the official Hotel Washington website.

Planning Your Father’s Day Weekend

With so many activities available, planning ensures you maximize time and minimize stress. Start by deciding how long your visit will be. For a full weekend, arrive Friday evening, allowing time for dinner and a stroll along Pennsylvania Avenue. Spend Saturday exploring museums and outdoor activities, and reserve Sunday for brunch and relaxation.

Transportation and logistics – Washington DC’s Metrorail system makes it easy to travel between neighborhoods. Hotels near Metro stations, such as Hotel Washington, allow you to avoid traffic and parking fees. If you plan to drive, note that street parking around the Mall is limited; consider using parking apps or garage reservations. Bikes and scooters provide flexible ways to navigate neighborhoods, while tour buses offer hop‑on, hop‑off convenience.

Weather considerations – June in Washington DC brings warm temperatures averaging in the high 80s°F (around 30°C). Pack light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so carry an umbrella or rain jacket. Museum interiors provide cool breaks from the heat.

Reservations and tickets – Secure reservations for brunch, dinner and spa treatments several weeks in advance. For popular museums like the National Museum of African American History and Culture, obtain timed‑entry passes online. Purchase baseball or soccer tickets early to secure good seats. Booking guided tours, bike rentals and cruises ahead of time ensures availability.

Custom itinerary suggestions –

1. Friday evening: Check in at Hotel Washington and take an evening stroll around the White House and Lafayette Square. Enjoy dinner at a neighborhood restaurant like Founding Farmers.
2. Saturday morning: Hike through Rock Creek Park, followed by lunch at Melva’s Kitchen in the Langston Golf Course clubhouse. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture or take a guided tour of the National Mall.
3. Saturday evening: Attend a baseball game at Nationals Park or a concert at The Anthem. Afterwards, sample beers at Bluejacket or cocktails at a distillery.
4. Sunday morning: Celebrate with brunch at VUE on Hotel Washington’s rooftop, savoring crab cake Benedict and smoked cocktails. After brunch, enjoy a spa treatment or a leisurely bike ride around the National Mall.
5. Sunday afternoon: Explore Eastern Market for gifts, then relax at one of the city’s parks or finish with a Father’s Day antique car show visit.

Personalize these suggestions based on Dad’s interests. If he enjoys art, add visits to the National Gallery of Art or Hirshhorn Museum. If he likes technology, book a tour at NASA’s Goddard Visitor Center in nearby Greenbelt.

FAQ: Father’s Day in Washington DC

1. What are some free Father’s Day activities in Washington DC? Hike through Rock Creek Park, visit free Smithsonian museums, tour monuments on the National Mall and attend outdoor concerts at public parks.
2. Do I need to reserve tickets for the National Museum of African American History and Culture? Timed‑entry passes are recommended, especially on weekends. Reserve online in advance to guarantee entry.
3. Are there family‑friendly biking routes in DC? Yes. You can ride along the National Mall and Mount Vernon Trail with rentals from Unlimited Biking or Capital Bikeshare. Bike lanes and trails provide safe routes for all ages.
4. What makes the brunch at VUE special? VUE offers rooftop views of the White House and features à la carte dishes like jumbo lump crab cake Benedict and smoked Angel’s Envy cocktails, available only during the Father’s Day brunch.
5. Can I book spa treatments on short notice? Spa appointments during Father’s Day weekend often fill quickly. Reserve at least two weeks in advance through the spa’s online portal.
6. Which golf course is best for beginners? East Potomac Golf Course offers a par‑three course suitable for beginners, while Langston Golf Course provides a historically rich experience.
7. Are there evening events on Father’s Day? Yes. Options include baseball games at Nationals Park, concerts at Wolf Trap and Bluejacket brewery tours. Check schedules for exact times.
8. Where can I buy a unique Father’s Day gift? Consider bespoke jewelry from Adeler Jewelers, designer watches from Liljenquist & Beckstead or handmade items from Eastern Market.

Closing

Father’s Day in Washington DC is more than a single meal or gift—it is an immersive experience that honors the fathers and father figures in our lives. From hiking through woodlands and exploring museums to enjoying rooftop brunches and rejuvenating spa treatments, the city provides countless ways to celebrate. By planning ahead and selecting activities that align with your father’s interests, you can create a weekend filled with laughter, learning and relaxation. Whether you are admiring classic cars, savoring a craft cocktail or simply watching the sunset from a rooftop terrace, you will make memories that endure long after the holiday. To start crafting your personalized Father’s Day itinerary—and to discover specials at VUE and the Spa—visit Hotel Washington today.

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