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As couples, we love to go out. I know my partner in crime and myself love to have an adult nights out without the kiddos. Our only problem is that all of the fun adult stuff is expensive. Simple things, such as dinner and maybe a show, can eat up all of the entertainment budget, and leave you guys bored at home watching TV on date night. No worries. There’s hope. There are ways to go out to multiple places and have a wonderful time all on a budget. There are ways to have a night in the town and it can be cost effective.
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1. Take a look at the events calendar for your city and go to be free fests. Not only will you have a new experience to share, but they are usually free or under $10. Some form of cheap food and entertainment is guaranteed to be there. There is usually more than one thing going on, and if you plan, you can do various things in one day or make an entire event filled weekend.
2. Have a picnic in the park. There is nothing like a picnic. Grab your favorite wine or spirit, simple snacks, blankets or chairs (I recommend blankets if the weather permits because they allow for more closeness) find a quiet spot and enjoy one another.
3. Take a walk through a new neighborhood. Bigger houses and better neighborhoods provide grounds for the two of you to grow dreams together. Admire the architecture and landscaping. This can provide a delightful opportunity to dream together about our future–and get to know a little more about each other.
4. Take a free exercise class together. New gyms are always opening and offering free trial classes. So try one out together. The experience will be a shared one, and nothing beats working out with your honey and promoting a healthy lifestyle. You can also try dance classes, yoga or swimming!
5. Watch a cooking show and prepare a new meal that you think your lovely will enjoy. Maybe dress up and wait on them hand and foot throughout the dinner. Nothing pleases a person more than knowing you took the time to do something so special for them. You can end it by watching something that is streaming, or listening to music and chatting the night away.
6. Visit a Museum or Art Gallery: Many museums and galleries offer free or discounted entry on certain days. Explore the exhibits together and have thoughtful discussions.
7. Hiking or Nature Walk: If you both enjoy nature, take a hike on a nearby trail or go for a nature walk in a scenic area.
8. Volunteer Together: Find a local charity or organization that needs volunteers and spend some time together making a positive impact in the community.
9. Board Games or Trivia Night: Host a board game night at your place or find a bar or café that offers trivia games.
10. Outdoor Movie Night: Check if there are any outdoor movie screenings in your area. Many communities organize free movie nights during the summer.
11. Visit a Farmer’s Market: Wander through a farmer’s market, sample some fresh produce, and support local vendors.
12. Explore a Bookstore: Spend time browsing books, recommending each other’s favorites, and maybe even read a few passages aloud.
13. Stargazing: Find a quiet spot away from city lights and gaze at the stars together. You can use stargazing apps to learn more about the constellations.
14. Bike Ride: If you both have bikes or can rent them cheaply, take a leisurely bike ride through scenic routes.
15. DIY Craft Night: Get creative and do some DIY crafts together. Look up simple craft ideas online or try something like painting or making homemade candles.
Your date night never has to be extravagant.
Remember, the most important aspect of a first date is getting to know each other better, and it doesn’t have to be expensive to have a meaningful and enjoyable time together. Choose an activity that allows for conversation and connection, and most importantly, be yourself!
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Photo: iStock