So, you know how everyone says you should have a weekly date night? It sounds easy, but life gets in the way, right? Before you know it, the kids are all grown up, and you realize you’ve drifted apart. Make it a point to set aside one night a week for just the two of you. It doesn’t have to be the same night every week—just jot it down on your calendar. You can always switch it up if something comes up.
Here are some fun ideas that go beyond the usual dinner and a movie. Many of these are super low-cost or even free! And if you have little ones, getting a break from them can be a huge stress reliever. If finding a babysitter feels like a hassle, take turns or build a little network of sitters.
Totally Free Ideas
- Get a Little Wild: Do something silly but legal together. If you’re usually the responsible type, try picking up litter at a park. If you’re more of a thrill-seeker, do something responsible like volunteering at a soup kitchen.
- Stargazing: Grab a blanket and head to your backyard or a quiet spot in the country. If you’re into it, bring a star map and try to spot constellations.
- People Watching: Go to a busy place like a train station or downtown and make up stories about the people you see. If someone looks down, send a little prayer their way.
- Costume Reveal: Each of you creates a funny costume using stuff you already have at home. Then, reveal your creations to each other!
- Rake Leaves: Get outside, rake some leaves, and jump in the pile together. If you don’t have leaves, find someone who does and offer to help them out.
- Quiet Time at a Church: Find an empty church, sit in peace, and pray for each other. You can chat about your spiritual beliefs afterward if you want.
- Waiter’s Night: Pick a night to pamper your spouse like a waiter. Get them snacks, drinks, or whatever they like. Just make sure to switch it up next time!
- Walk in Each Other’s Shoes: Literally or figuratively! Try to see life from your spouse’s perspective for a night.
- Tech-Free Night: Turn off all your devices and see what you can come up with to do without screens.
Budget-Friendly Dates
- Amusement Park Fun: Hit up a local amusement park or arcade without the kids. Play some silly games and just enjoy being kids again.
- Childhood Games: Play games you loved as kids—croquet, badminton, or even hide and seek.
- Tourist Day: Pretend you’re tourists in your own city. Visit local attractions, parks, or museums that you’ve never checked out.
- Build Something Together: Make ice cream sundaes, pizzas, or even a tower of blocks. Have fun with the weird combinations!
- Favorites Night: Each of you picks a favorite activity or food, and you combine them for a fun night.
- City Bus Adventure: Ride a city bus for the whole route and chat about what you see and the people around you.
- Snow Day Fun: If it snows, make snow angels or a snowman. No snow? Go roller skating instead!
- Pet Store Visit: Check out a pet store together. It’s a great way to spark some warm feelings—just don’t buy anything unless you’re ready for a new pet!
- Midnight Bowling: Go bowling late at night. It’s not just about the bowling; the atmosphere can be a blast!
- Photo Album Night: Look through old photo albums and share stories from your childhood. If you’re feeling ambitious, organize loose photos together.
- Fish Fry: During Lent, check out a local fish fry. It’s more about the community vibe than the food.
- Bookstore Hangout: Spend some time at a bookstore, browsing your favorite sections or chilling in a cozy reading spot.
- Spiritual Nurturing: Go to a church service or spend some quiet time in prayer together.
- Zoo Trip: Visit your local zoo, especially in spring when you might see baby animals.
- Quarter Theme Date: Do activities that involve quarters—like playing a jukebox, washing the car, or hitting up an arcade.
- Thrift Store Challenge: Set a budget and see who can find the craziest gift for the other person. Bonus points for wearing your finds home!
- Volunteer Together: Spend some time helping out at a local charity or community event. It’s a great way to bond.
Outdoor Adventures
- Moonlit Walks: Find a nearby lake or river and take a romantic evening stroll. Enjoy the shimmering water and dream together.
- Childhood Fun: Do something nostalgic like climbing a tree or catching fireflies.
- Picnic Time: Pack a picnic and find a quiet spot. Bring some snacks, maybe some wine, and read poetry to each other.
- Bike Ride: Go for a bike ride around your neighborhood or the countryside. Stop for treats along the way!
- Camping: Try tent camping for a night. Snuggle up, tell ghost stories, and roast marshmallows.
- Corn Maze Adventure: In the fall, find a corn maze and get lost together. It’s all part of the fun!
Cozy At-Home Dates
- Reading Night: Pick a book you both like and take turns reading to each other, or just enjoy your own books together.
- Bible Sharing: Share your favorite Bible passages or explore the Song of Songs together.
- Create Some Light: Build a fire or light candles for a cozy indoor picnic.
- Movie Night: Rent a classic romantic movie and enjoy a cozy night in.
There you go! Plenty of ideas to keep the spark alive without breaking the bank. Enjoy!
