It’s wintertime again. Even though the weather is colder and the days are darker the changing seasons can open the doors to charming date ideas.
I am not an expert in love but I am an avid consumer of cheesy rom-coms. One lesson we can take away from these films is that wintertime activities lend themselves perfectly to romance.
Things like kissing under mistletoe and holding hands in the snow are the definition of romance according to The Hallmark Channel. Though cinematic acts of romance might not be feasible or desirable for some of us, wintery activities can bring romance to your relationship.
Here are some wintertime activities that make for perfect date nights:
Movie night
Speaking of rom-coms, a good ol’ fashioned movie night is a perfect way to cozy up with your date this winter. Steaming cups of tea, dim lights and fuzzy blankets can make an evening delightfully cozy. Plus, there are plenty of winter movies that can set the mood.
Holiday lights
Winter weather may not be your cup of tea — or cocoa — but there’s no denying that the days are getting colder. One way to embrace the chilly weather is to bundle up and take your partner to see a holiday light display in your city. Walking through these displays makes for a romantic night out. You can find holiday light displays around your area.
Ice skating
Ice skating is a classic winter activity and one that certainly makes a fun date idea. Spend the day with your significant other sipping hot cocoa by the rink and holding hands while skating. Portland is home to many rinks to take your date so lace up your skates and head out on the ice.
Baking
Just imagine the delicious flavors associated with winter: cinnamon and chestnuts, gooey chocolate chips and peppermint, gingerbread and eggnog. Crack open a cookbook with your significant other this winter for a fun date activity with the bonus of a delicious treat. The Beacon even published an article with wintertime baking recommendations to get your creative juices flowing.
Fondue night
Whether chocolate or cheese, fondue is a classy way to dine this winter. Something about this dish feels romantic; it just has that je ne sais pas.
Go to the ballet or theater
Especially after COVID, it’s important to support local theaters. Seeing a play or ballet is equal parts entertaining and romantic. If you’re looking for a show to watch, The Nutcracker ballet is a seasonal delight.
Indoor picnic
Though it may be too cold to set up a picnic at a park or in your backyard, try laying out blankets and finger foods in your living room. For a wintertime flare, add some candles, seasonal treats or mulled wine (if you’re over 21, of course).
Explore a new cafe
Colder weather equals hotter drinks. And though coffee dates are hardly a freshly brewed idea, visiting a new cafe, trying a seasonal hot drink or escaping the cold makes for a great winter date activity. If you're in the Portland area and looking for a new cafe to try out, here’s some top of the line coffee spots to check out.
Winter activities can be romantic and charming, perfect for a cheerful date night. Don’t let the dreary weather get you down — make the most of these chilly afternoons cozying up with your partner.
Emma Sells is the Multimedia Editor for The Beacon and can be reached at sells23@up.edu.
