Put down the remote and give the Uber Eats driver a night off—it’s time for a proper date. Just because Valentine’s Day is over doesn’t mean we should all stop dating. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply want to spend more quality moments together, there’s no better time than this weekend, a causal Tuesday evening or even a spur-of-the-moment afternoon to get cosy and connected. 

While Netflix and chill is, indeed, very chill – isn’t it about time we elevated our dating game and indulged in some enriching experiences? Whether you’re reminiscing about those early days of ‘fun and fancy-free’, or stuck for ideas for your Hinge date, we’ve put together a list of notable dates to remember and everything you’ll need to have a great time on them.

Be Smitten by the Sea

A beach picnic is the best of both worlds: a quick dip in the waves followed by a delicious packed lunch, or for those who prefer to stay high and dry, it’s a casual date option with a killer seaside view. Make sure you pack your SPF and cutest wide-brimmed hat and opt for a floaty gingham sundress or linen set (bonus points for colour co-OD’ing with the picnic rug). Soundtracked by the Mr. Whippy van—what could be more romantic?

l’amour au cinéma

Move over Marvel—arthouse cinema can provide an intimate setting for a movie night, with provocative films and a more artistic atmosphere than your typical blockbuster cinema. Think art deco embellishments, plush velvet fold-down seats and an array of gourmet choc tops you wouldn’t get with your Cinebuzz card. It’s also an opportunity to try out a more mod or noir look: finally a chance to test out some graphic liner, chic French bob or your boldest red lipstick.

Knit Your Heart on Your Sleeve

Looking to get more… hands on? Learning a new skill can be a fab, relaxing date that allows you to get creative and connect with your partner. If knitting isn’t quite your floss, there’s a plethora of other crafty endeavours to get down and dirty with: pottery classes, floral arranging or a good ol’ paint and sip if you really need to loosen up. Another winning attribute? It’s the best excuse to wear your cosiest loungewear, don your fluffy slides and embrace your inner Jessica Day art-geek.

Shake Your Groove Thing

It’s love on the dance floor, so you better not kill the groove. Disco nights are a delightful cocktail of retro beats, flashing lights and high-energy hip thrusting that’s sure to get your sexy back. While it’s not a costume party, obviously themed-dressing is encouraged, so be sure to check the vibe of your venue by previewing their TikTok or IG account in advance. Bust out your boldest eye looks, strap on your platforms and don’t forget the sequins for some extra pzazz.

Long Distance Lovers 

Perhaps the hardest date night of all is the one where you’re not even in the same timezone, let alone the same room. Don’t let continents or borderlines hold you back though! Invest in tech to take your video calls into high definition, and use it to your advantage. We’re talking vibrant lingerie that pops on camera, remotely-controlled toys for surprise stimulation, and online role-play to enter a shared reality.

Forty-Love

Sweat + Sun = Fun. Use your activewear for good and break out your best ace on the tennis court for some seriously flirty fitness. Search for your local council courts which may even provide equipment to use, or book a two-hour session to make it a real match. You could also try your hand at mixed doubles—a real double date! Slick back the ponytail, polish up your white sneakers and pull on your twirliest tennis skirt for a competitive yet energizing afternoon.

Food as Foreplay

A restaurant dinner date is the go-to, so why not make your own instead? Get the flames going by learning to cook a new dish together, or perfecting a favourite cuisine you both hold dear. Cooking schools offer an array of options, from making your own pasta from scratch, to three-course masterclasses and intricate desserts. A relaxed yet enriching experience, it’s a no-fuss, stretchy set, ‘skin tint and lip gloss’ kind of date which may leave you wanting another course once you get home.