Top 10 Dating Ideas For Winter
@shrewkelly and @thedannykelly // PC @minaretphoto
Oh, winter. The cooler weather has arrived, and now that it’s here we’re probably already anticipating when it leaves. Still, there is a lot to love about this time of year. Yes, the days are shorter and the weather is unforgiving, but the holidays bring cheer at the start of the season, and the snow creates a real-life wonderland. Don’t succumb to seasonal affective disorder: grab your significant other, or that Tinder date, and indulge in a winter date night.
What makes a date night special is a combination what you do together and the opportunity to enjoy each other’s company. The winter weather should not be allowed to hinder that fun. It can be tempting to avoid leaving the house, but on balmy days, an outdoor experience is worth it. Those days are few and far between, depending on where you live, and being together inside near the fire, snuggling on the couch is quality time, too. Fall in love again with any of these fun winter date ideas.
ICE SKATING
Especially around the holidays, ice skating is very popular. If you live in a colder area, there will most likely be an outdoor rink. Most cities will have an indoor rink.
What makes this a good idea for a date is that not everyone is skilled in it, so it’s ok if you look a little silly. It really isn’t hard to catch on, though, and it gives you an excuse to hold your date’s hand.
SNOWSHOEING
Snowshoes can be rented at most outdoor shops like REI or Dick’s Sporting Goods. Be sure to have someone help you get the right fit otherwise you’ll have a hard time on the trail.
Snowshoeing is an incredible workout and you can go places you normally can’t go with heavy snow. When I went, we deviated from the trail and went straight up a mountain. I was under the impression that, with snowshoes, you won’t sink into the snow, but that is not true. With some practice, you can learn how to avoid posting (sinking into the snow), but even the most skilled snowshoers will post because it’s unpredictable.
Be sure to dress warmly and wear boots that cover your ankles. This is an ideal group date with friends or just you and one other person. You can treat yourselves afterward with coffee, beer, or a warm dinner.
MAKE SNOW ART
Fresh snow is a well of possibilities for how to have winter fun. Roll up snowmen and outline frosty angels on the ground. You can even build a snow castle. You can make these activities a competition between you and your date and see who can build the best castle or snowman, or you can do them together.
The snow doesn’t need to be fresh in order to use it as your canvas. You can use spray bottles filled with water and food coloring as your palette and make your own grand romantic gesture.
@samuelcrossley + @brianslepian // PC: @thehearnes
ICE CLIMBING
If you are not familiar with ice climbing, it’s essentially rock climbing, but you’re climbing a frozen waterfall or inclined ice formations. It may look hard, but it’s a lot of the same technique as rock climbing with the use of ropes and gear, with the addition of ice picks to help you ascend.
Ice climbing definitely takes more skill and preparation. You can rent the equipment at most outdoor shops, and they will usually offer classes to help you get started. It is recommended to go with someone who knows what they are doing. While it may seem like a lot of work for one date, it is a very fun activity that promises plenty of adrenaline rushes.
@samuelcrossley + @brianslepian // PC: @thehearnes
HIKING
While most trails are covered in snow so snowshoeing is the ideal alternative, on warmer days you might be able to find a trail that is less covered. Some preparation and foresight will be required and it is highly recommended to have shoe clamps to traverse the ice and packed snow.
SLEDDING
Fluffy snow practically begs to be frolicked in. Grab a sled and whisk down hills small and large for a fun winter date.
SEE LOCAL HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Every town has that one street decked out in Christmas lights. Take a scenic drive around with your partner to admire all the hard work that went into your neighbors’ displays.
GO THRIFTING OR ANTIQUING
You can fit a lot of laughs into a date spent thrifting. There are always unusual items on sale at antique and secondhand stores. You will have the best time at a store that does not organize its merchandise— it takes more effort to locate worthwhile items, but makes it all the more satisfying when you do.
GO CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
With the holidays approaching, head to the mall or your favorite boutiques for some Christmas shopping. You can use the outing to drop hints to your partner about what you really want for Christmas, too.
TAKE A COOKING CLASS
Whether you want to up your cooking game or you just have a night with nothing to do, a cooking class is a great bonding and learning experience. To make this one more romantic, opt for a private lesson.
