Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Great Dates That Won't Leave You Broke


Photo by imagerymajestic

I'm a firm believer that a date shouldn't cost an arm and a leg. After all, I like you enough to hang out with you for a couple of hours, shouldn't your time and energy be enough? Besides, the same old dinner and a movie dates get tired. So here are some great ideas to keep your dates fresh and fun while not taxing your wallet.  


1. Local festivals
With the weather warming up, there are plenty of local festivals, galleries and concerts to be enjoyed. Many charge a low parking fee or price of admission but all the different sights to enjoy make up for the little cash you spent to get in. To search for festivals going on in your area, click here.

2. See a movie in the park
Lots of cities are starting to offer movie screenings in the park and many of them are FREE! All you have to do is show up with a blanket/towel/set of lawn chairs and your favorite snacks. Yes, many of the movies are family friendly, but who wouldn't want to watch Shrek under the stars while eating chips that you didn't have to sneak in your purse?

3.  Attend a wine tasting
Some areas have bars and restaurants that do frequent wine tasting nights, often for a low cost of admission or even a donation to a featured charitable cause. Feel free to sample the many varieties. Just be careful no to overindulge.

4. Play a sport together
A fun exercise session never hurt anyone, right? If you're both athletically inclined (or just really enjoy the game) play a round together.

5.  Host a game night
Everyone has a favorite board game from their childhood. Or maybe you're a fan of video games past and present. Whatever it is you like, be it Monopoly, Super Mario Brothers, or Modern Warfare 3, get your controller charged up or all your spare pawns (Don't act like you never replaced the boot with a penny) and start playing. It's even more fun with other couple friends.

6. Teach each other something
If you have a unique skill or special interest, why not spend the day teaching it to your partner? Maybe you're good at photography while your date is more musically inclined? I'm a writer, my boyfriend is a gamer. He taught me how to play Street Fighter (I'm more of a Mortal Kombat kinda girl--all you do is push buttons.) I helped him improve his writing skills. It seems really simple,  but you can really learn a lot about a person through their teaching style.

7. Learn something new together
Along the same vein as the previous idea, I  believe that learning a new skill together can increase a bond between two people. Take a class together.

8. Volunteer together
In my opinion, nothing says more about what's important to you more than the issues and causes you support. If the two of you share a particular passion for helping an aspect of the community, why not do it together? Many organizations are in need of volunteers and a quick Google search can get you on the right path. Another good place to start is Volunteer Match, which compiles opportunities from over 82,000 nonprofit organizations across the US.

9. Go on a picnic
Spring time is perfect picnic weather, especially here in the south. Head to the store with your date pick up some of your favorite foods from the deli and something to drink. Then find a shady spot in the park with just the right amount of sun and enjoy the time together.

10. Karaoke night
Depending on your comfort level, there are many ways to participate in a night of singing your heart out. If you're shy, you could stay home and play one of the many karaoke games out for your choice of video game console If you have a sense of adventure, you could brave a traditional karaoke bar where all eyes will be on you. If you can find a Korean-style karaoke bar, you'll have the best of both worlds.
The two of you will have a chance to get  out of the house, but have the privacy of your own room complete with a comfy couch, two mics and no judging eyes. Serenade each other or shake it fast to "Baby Got Back." It's a good time had by all.
A fun and interesting date doesn't have to break the bank. It just takes a little creativity and some willing participants. Check your local paper or message boards for other outings that are bound to create some good laughs and lasting memories.

    1 comments:

    LOVE THIS! These ideas are so up my alley.

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