We all love to be in love. It’s exhilarating. But when a couple has been together for any length of time, the newness begins to fade. This is a normal experience for most couples. In order to maintain a healthy relationship, however, it’s necessary to keep that feeling you felt when the two of you first met. Every couple goes through ups and downs. But if each partner makes a commitment to keep their love alive, their love can grow to something so incredibly special, it’s even better than those initial first feelings of exhilaration.
Research shows that couples who prioritize time together have the strongest relationships. Yes, life gets in the way and it is easy to take each other for granted. Careers, kids, maintaining a home—all of this can take up so much of our time. But if we don’t put a priority on the most important relationship we have, we risk losing everything. We want to be happy and a fulfilling romantic relationship is incredibly satisfying. One of the ways many couples maintain a strong bond is to have a standing date night.
This has to be a solid commitment. It’s easy to let life’s challenges get in the way of your time together and before you know it, you’re wondering who this person lying in bed next to you really is. But by taking the time to spend one on one time with your significant other, you will find your relationship can withstand all that life throws at you. Many couples, however, find it challenging to find fun things to do. The same old restaurants become boring or the choices at the box office are lacking. Below you’ll find some great suggestions for new and exciting date nights that will spice things up for sure.
Outdoor Music Concerts – Many towns and cities offer outdoor music concerts. Pack some snacks, drinks, and a blanket to sit on and cuddle up with your honey while you enjoy the music and the outdoors.
Food Tours – If you live in a larger city, you might find some interesting food tours. This way you can go out to dinner with a whole new twist.
Trivia Nights – Many pubs offer trivia nights weekly. They are usually free and give the two of you something to discuss while having a beer or two. You might even win a prize.
Professional Sports Events – Nothing is more fun than cheering on your favorite team. If you and your love are sports fans, try and take in a game every so often.
Taking a Class – Learning something new is always a great bonding experience. Is there a new cuisine you want to try? What about learning a new skill? Whatever your interest, there’s probably a class for it. Check out local news and school offerings, as well as social media, to find out what’s in your area.
Volunteering – Many couples find satisfaction in doing for others. Perhaps schedule time to work at a local food pantry and then go out to dinner after. You will feel fortunate for your blessings and help your community too.
Enjoy Nature – Get outside and enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer. Hold hands as you walk through the park or the local forest preserve. Best of all, this activity is free!
Book Discussions – Do you and your partner love to read? How about reading the same book and scheduling time to discuss it at dinner or out for drinks? Be sure to come prepared with discussion questions. These are easy to find online with a quick search and will keep you on track.
Karaoke – If you like to sing, what’s more fun than karaoke? Even if you don’t sing, it’s still a lot of fun to watch others try their hand. It’s the same for open mike nights. Sometimes the music is great, sometime it will just make you laugh. Either way, you’re in for a good time.
Comedy – Nothing brings you closer than laughing together so try a comedy club. It’s a great night out and you can usually squeeze in dinner too!
Be a Kid Again – Think back to what you loved to do as a kid. Did you roller skate? Maybe you loved go-karts. Were you a laser tag fanatic? Why did you give it up? Try reliving your youth and do something you used to love doing when you were younger.
Whatever you decide to do, the most important thing is that you spend time together. Couples who make each other a priority are the happiest couples. Don’t let your routine become stale with the same old restaurants and the same conversations. Varying your date nights will not only give you more to talk about, but you’ll find yourself becoming more excited about them. Cherish your partner, keep things exciting, and keep that fire burning.
