Dates are important for any relationship: they strengthen friendships, create intimate moments and build lasting memories to cherish. Even if you’re busy with children or a hectic work schedule, it’s important to set aside some one-on-one relationship time. Find an evening when you both are free, get a babysitter to look after the children and keep the relationship exciting by coming up with some new date ideas.
Here are six unique and fun date ideas. They may take a little planning, but they will lead to a memorable night.
- Take Part In A Pub Quiz
You’re almost guaranteed to find a pub in your area that hosts a weekly pub quiz. Team up with your partner and have a bit of friendly competition in a relaxed atmosphere over some drinks. A lot of pubs will offer discounted meals on quiz nights, too. Bear in mind that you may need to ring up in advance to book a table – some quizzes can be popular with the locals.
- Plan a Night Time Picnic
Pack up your picnic basket, blanket, warm clothes and some hot chocolate and head for a local park with your partner. Set up your blanket in an open spot, and break out the snacks. Spending some alone time together, looking at the stars, is a relaxing and intimate way to spend your evening. Add to your list of date ideas by doing a similar picnic, but in the comfort of your own garden — or, if you live near the coast, take your night picnic to the beach!
- Enjoy a Progressive Meal
Keep your date interesting by going on a ‘restaurant crawl’ for dinner. For instance: start by having drinks in a bar, then move on to a restaurant for starters. For mains go somewhere new, and then finish in another different restaurant for dessert. You could try places you haven’t been to before – or you could choose a different cuisine for each course. Moving around all night will keep conversation fresh and add some excitement.
- Take a Mini-Road Trip
Long drives are great for couples looking for unique date ideas: no interruptions or distractions, a little background music and changing scenery, even if you’re just driving a few towns away. Ask feeling questions, talk about what is and isn’t working in your relationship or plan for the future. Don’t worry about a destination — be impulsive and stop when something looks interesting.
- Discover Some New (or Old) Music
Once you have children, it’s easy to get stuck in a music rut. The fun way to find new bands to love is to go to local venues to see up-and-coming acts. Take a look at gig guides in your area to see if anything catches your eye. You could go to a venue from your past, or explore something new. Similarly, keep an eye out for bands that you both love to see if they’re playing shows near you. When you and your partner fell in love, the songs of the time were the soundtrack. It’s time to start building a new relationship playlist.
- Go To See A Local Sports Game
Whether it’s cricket, football, rugby, netball, or tennis, for a fun date idea you and your partner could go and support your local sportsmen and –women in local matches and tournaments. Smaller crowds tend to mean a more intimate atmosphere – when you and your partner cheer on your local team, it makes a difference!