Six Creative Date Ideas to Heat Up Your Summer

Jul 29

It’s finally that time of year again. The days are longer, your air conditioning bill is higher, and everyone’s a bit, well, happier. It’s summertime, and as sunshine welcomes you back into its warm embrace, you might find yourself searching for an embrace of another kind.
So as you emerge from hibernation and get back into the dating scene, here are six summertime date ideas to help break (and melt) the ice.

Picnic

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It goes without saying, picnicking is one of the most budget-friendly and versatile date options one can have. Depending on where you live, you might find yourself spreading a blanket at a park, the beach, or even your own front yard. And other than the prospect of a few third-wheeling ants, you don’t have to worry about packed crowds or interruptions – you have the space all to yourself (well, mostly).

Looking to spice things up a bit? Pick a food theme! Who knew that your neighborhood park could double as the Swiss Alps? Sounds like a cheese board, fresh bread, and some red wine to boot. Don’t forget your mosquito repellent!

Paint ’n Sip

Okay we get it – you’ve sworn off art since the years of stick figures and peeling Elmer’s glue off your fingers. But summer is, after all, the perfect time to turn over a new leaf, and what better way to do so than grabbing a canvas, some paints, your favorite spritzer, and letting the muses come to you!

Make things even more exciting by writing down ideas for your *masterpiece* on slips of paper and drawing them from a hat.

Lemonade Stand

That’s right, you heard me, a lemonade stand – but not the kind that you set up with a cardboard box outside of your parents house. Think more along the lines of “lemonade flight” and get creative with a number of different citrus juices, garnishes, and (if you’re looking to get a bit funky) a splash of you and your date's favorite booze.

Feeling crafty? Try designing a menu together and see if you can agree on some original cocktail names!

Pool Potluck

A potluck for two people? Why not! Surprise each other with your favorite summer recipes and bring them along for a poolside potluck. Not a chef? Not to worry! You might find that a build-your-own sandwich platter is just as impressive.

Staycation Camping

No need to trek into the wilderness to enjoy the fun of an outdoor campcation. Set up some lawn chairs, wipe the dust off of your favorite board games, and gather up some marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate for a good ol’ s’mores roasting. As long as you have a stove (who needs a bonfire?), you’re set!

And the best part is? At the end of the night you get to go home to your own comfy bed.

Personal Festival

Festivals are the go-to event of the summer – they’re full of people, energy and good music. They’re also really good at breaking the bank. So if you’re looking for a significantly cheaper, more mellow option, try putting together a mini personal festival for you and your date to enjoy!

Bring out the speakers, the sparkles and put together some playlist sets. (Taking turns playing DJ can be a good way to see if someone shares the AUX...)

Elise Caldwell

Elise Caldwell is a content writer who recently graduated from UCLA with a B.A. in Communication. She has written for a number of podcasts, including Blink’s Date in a Blink and Finding Founders, and is always looking forward to the next project. Oh, and never shies away from a good grammar chat.