It's that time of year again. The leaves are changing, the weather is cooling down, and you're looking for something to do with your significant other. While I love some fancy schmancy dates as much as the next person, sometimes we need to get back to basics—and no matter how much fun we have on a fancy date, nothing beats an excellent ol' fashioned night in with Netflix and snacks. But what if I told you there was another way? What if instead of paying a ton of money at some overhyped restaurant or event, we could make our fun without spending too much money? Well, lucky for you, my friend...I'm not just any ordinary blogger! It turns out there are tons of different things that cost less than $10 per hour to keep your boo happy all day! So grab your sweetie by the hand and get ready for some fun—because tonight will be lit!
Go to a local festival.
If you're looking for an exciting date night idea, why not go to a local festival? Fairs and carnivals are great ways to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. There are tons of festivals in every city around the world, so it's easy to find one that fits your taste. Here are some questions you should ask yourself before deciding on which event is right for you:
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What kind of festivals are there in my area?
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What dates do they take place?
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How much will each ticket cost (if any)?
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How long will it take me or my partner/spouse/partner-in-crime to drive there from home?
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And finally: What kind of food can I expect at this festival--and how many calories does it have per serving??
Check out a game night at your local bar.
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Check out a game night at your local bar.
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Go with friends, or meet new people.
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A great way to make new friends!
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It can be a good way to meet potential dates. * Can be a fun way to spend time with your partner.*
Pick a different place to eat every night.
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Go to a new restaurant.
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Try a different type of food.
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Try a different cuisine.
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Try a new restaurant that you've always wanted to try, but haven't yet (and if possible, one that's new to your area).
Go on an adventure and find something new every day.
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Explore a new place. Try to find something new every day, whether it's an area you've never been to or a restaurant on your list for years.
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Try a new food. If you're looking for ideas, look at our list of the best foods in America!
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Do something you've never done before--even if it scares you! You might be surprised at how much fun it can be! There are so many activities and experiences; why not try them all?
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Visit a museum or park near your hometown that hasn't been on your radar (or go back again!). Museums often have great exhibits which are free or low-cost admission; they also tend to offer discounts if they know that someone is visiting from out of town, so ask about those as well! Parks often have festivals throughout the year, too; check with local government websites/Facebook pages/etc. Before heading over there, though, because sometimes these events sell out quickly, so make sure they still want people attending and whether tickets are still available."
Take a class together.
Whether it's a cooking or language class, taking classes together is an excellent way to learn something new and have fun. You can learn how to make delicious food or speak another language, making you feel like you've accomplished something together!
Have a movie night at home, but don't watch TV!
For this date, it's essential to have a plan in place. You can't just pick up a movie at Blockbuster and expect everything else to fall into place. First, make sure you and your partner have some free time on your hands! Then, decide which movies you want to watch together. Next, check out some DVDs from the library or purchase them online if necessary (ensure they're available). Finally, buy snacks that will keep well in your fridge until after the movie is over--for example, popcorn kernels or chips with dip, small containers of chocolate candies, etcetera.
Once everything has been set up and ready for action, please turn off all lights except those directly behind, where each person will sit while watching their respective screen(s). Ensure these screens are large enough so neither party feels cramped or uncomfortable during viewing time (you could even use two TVs). Now comes part two: making plans for after viewing has concluded! This step might seem obvious, but think about how often people rush through their evening without considering what needs doing next...it happens far too often! So before launching into another activity altogether (or simply ending) spend some time discussing what else could happen between now and tomorrow morning...but don't forget about tonight either!
Pick a theme for your date and do it up! It can be anything from wearing all pink or all red to go to the zoo or museum in costume.
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Go on an adventure and find something new every day.
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Go to a theme park, like Disneyland or Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can experience rides like Space Mountain or Harry Potter World together as a couple.
Grab some blankets and head outside for a picnic or beach picnic with some friends.
Picnics are a great way to save money, get out of the house, and enjoy some fresh air, and they can be done with or without kids.
Picnics are one of those activities that all ages can enjoy. They're great if you're looking for something different than going to a movie theater or bowling alley (which are also fun). You may even find yourself saving money by doing this instead! Just grab some blankets and head outside for a picnic with friends in the park or on the beach.
You don't have to spend much money to have fun with your partner!
You don't have to spend much money to have fun with your partner! You can have fun with your partner without going out. And you don't need to spend a ton of time either.
It's all about finding new ways to make every moment exciting, whether trying something new or just doing something you both enjoy. That way, when it comes time for date night, it won't feel like too much of a departure from what you're used to doing together anyway!
We hope these ideas will help you have new experiences with your partner and make every moment exciting. If you want to go even further with your date night, try making one or two of these activities part of a theme night every week or month. You'll be surprised how quickly it becomes routine but still fun simultaneously!