Culture
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Valentine’s Dates That Aren’t Dinner
Non-boring, non-cheesy and a little fun.
It’s that time of year again: V-Day, Valentine’s Day, February 14th … call it what you will as this year it falls on a Friday, so whether you have a long term partner, have just swiped right on your new lover or you’re single and grabbing your girlfriends for a night in we’ve got plans for you.
If you’re not into a fancy restaurant but prefer to opt for something a little more thrilling than Netflix and Chill, read on.
Idea #1: Moonlight Cinemas
It doesn’t get much more romantic than seeing a movie under the stars. It’s guaranteed to be up there with your most memorable date nights.
Set up a picnic, go Gold Grass with your own beanbag or if you really feel like spoiling your loved one go Platinum and let someone else handle everything for you.
We’ve rounded up our top flicks showing Feb for you here: Little Women, Ghost, Magic Mike and 10 Things I Hate About You playing at local Sydney Moonlight Cinemas.
Tip: We suggest getting in quick as Moonlight Cinemas are always a sell-out on Valentine’s Day.
Idea #2: Mindful Home Cooking
Whether you play Head Chef or cook together, this is guaranteed to be a fun night in for the two of you especially if you’ve gone the extra mile to set the scene with wine (or these cocktail twists) and your mood-boosting tunes.
Try making a whole evening out of this one.
Head to a local bookstore to buy a new cookbook, the utensils you need and then hit the supermarket but don’t forget the local bottleshop.
Idea #3: Staycay In Your Own City
Everyone has that one hotel bookmarked in their city that “they’d love to stay at one time”
So, why not make that staycay a thing this V-Day. A lot of hotels offer Valentine’s Day packages; think rose petals on your bed and chilled champagne on arrival.
We’ve done the hard work for you and found our top three here: Ovolo Hotels, Sofitel Sydney, Langham Hotels and Little Albion
Tip: Throw in other hotel perks, like spending a day at the spa or a couples massage.
Idea #4: Games Night
Fancy yourself quite the weapon at the pinball machines? Perhaps you’re a pro at the alley? Relive your childhood with a date night at one of these bar and game duos.
Try Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq for a wider range of arcade games, bowling, laser tag and even bumper cars. There’s a bar with all your favourite cocktails and no kids after 8 pm!
If a blast from the past is more your thing, try your hand at this retro gaming utopia at 1989 Arcade Bar in Newtown.
Idea #5: Twilight Picnic
This one is sometimes easier said than done but with a private spot and a sunset view, it can really be something special.
Tip: Shop for ease and opt for things that are easy to pack. We recommend including cheese, dip, and biscuits or Uber Eats pizza straight to your picnic and obviously don’t forget a bottle of wine.
Also, try arriving early to secure your front row grass patch to these epic Sydney sunset views: North Bondi Grassy Knoll, Dudley Page Reserve and Wendy’s Secret Garden Lavender Bay.
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