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Written by Kirstin Stokes Smith | For many of us, the snow-filled winter months signal our instinct to hibernate. The cold weather, the snow, and the reduced daylight hours can drain us of our energy and motivation to get out and do something other than curl up with a blanket and our laptops – not the most social or intimate of activities.
So how do we ignite our desire and get out to do something other than share a bag of chips and the TV remote with our special somebody?
The following is a list of the top 10 winter date ideas compiled from colleagues and friends. These dates have worked for other couples and you can make them work for you!
1. Start with art. Hone the art of dating with a visit to a local art gallery.
2. Check out your local music scene. Even in the smallest cities, you’re likely to find a good mix of live music to choose from. Check out your faves, or sample something different!
3. Seasonal highlights: Grab some snacks, make some hot chocolate to go, and take a drive to view the Christmas lights in your neighbourhood.
4. Laughter is the best medicine! See a comedian at a comedy club. Laughter keeps us warm, and some say it’s an aphrodisiac – which can certainly keep couples warm on a cold winter’s night.
5. Book a date. Do you like books? Visit a bookstore together. Lots of bookstores have coffee shops, so you can link up at the coffee shop after you buy and spend the afternoon reading. You might even share something sweet!
6. Put your love on ice. Does your city have a public skating rink, or a river canal open for skating? If so, why not sharpen your skates and have a skate night, date night?
7. Wine and roses: Wine is another aphrodisiac, and it can keep you warm on a chilly evening. Find a wine tasting event or create your own!
8. Retro fun: Go bowling. Seriously. It’s fun and it’s one of the few sports that lets you drink and eat while doing it!
9. Score! Attend a hockey game. NHL can be pricy, but minor league games aren’t – and they’re every bit as entertaining as the big leagues.
10. Keep it simple. Bundle up and go for a winter walk. Explore your city’s parks or stroll through an area with interesting architecture.
Often the best dates are the ones that are the least complicated and most inexpensive. The bottom line: get out of the house and get together with your loved one. It may make the winter seem warmer, or at least a little cosier.