Not everyone has the luxury of a weekly date night out—we’re lucky to have an amazing helper who makes ours possible. If “we don’t have anyone to watch the kids” is holding you back from planning date nights (check out my blog post Debunking Date Night Excuses: Why It’s Time to Stop the Hating and Start the Dating for more excuses I bust!), then this list is for you.
If babysitting help is scarce, try scheduling a night out once a month with the help of a friend, family member or sitter. For the other weeks, embrace Home Based Dating!
During the COVID era, my husband and I became pros at at-home date nights after the kids were in bed. Whether you’re avoiding crowds, saving money, or just too tired to go out, there are plenty of creative ways to make a night in feel just as special. From movie nights to board games, here are 10 cozy date night ideas to keep the romance alive—without stepping outside!
1. Movie night (adults only!)
Make your at-home movie night feel like a trip to the cinema! Print out homemade tickets, set up a cozy blanket fort, and buy some fancy popcorn! Close the curtains, dim the lights and cuddle up close!
2. Wine & cheese night
Turn your living room into a chic wine bar with a DIY tasting session. Pick 3-4 different wines and pair them with cheeses, crackers, and fruits. Get fancy with a charcuterie board, and try guessing the flavours in each sip.
3. Fondue night
Melted cheese? Yes, please! Set up a fondue station with a pot of gooey, melted goodness and an assortment of dippables—think crusty bread, roasted veggies, and cured meats. Want to take it up a notch? Follow it up with a chocolate fondue for dessert!
4. Afternoon tea
Feeling fancy? Put on some classy outfits, set the table with your best tea set, and enjoy an elegant afternoon tea at home. Serve scones, sandwiches, and pastries while sipping on different tea flavors. (Tip: Marks and Spencer is a good place to shop for this home based date night)
5. Game night
Get ready for some playful competition! Classic board games like Monopoly, Scrabble and Cluedo can bring out your strategic side, while quick and easy options like Uno and Jenga keep things lighthearted. If you prefer something a little more fast-paced, try a trivia game or Pictionary for some laughs.
Raise the stakes: The winner gets a prize—maybe a massage, breakfast in bed, or something a little more… creative. 😉
6. Spa night
Transform your home into a relaxing spa retreat! Turn your home into a cozy spa with candles, soft music, and a little pampering. Give each other massages, try a face mask, or soak your feet in a warm bath. Simple, relaxing, and a great way to unwind together.
7. Cook-off challenge
Put on your aprons and compete to see who can cook the best dish! Pick a mystery ingredient and each create something with it. If you’re feeling extra competitive, set a timer and recreate a “MasterChef” style challenge.
8. Indoor camping & stargazing
Set up a cozy indoor tent or blanket fort and fill it with fairy lights, pillows, and snacks. If you have a balcony or a backyard, bring out some blankets and stargaze while sharing your favourite memories together. Top tip: Use a stargazing app to identify constellations!
9. Cocktail bar
Shake things up by making your own cocktails! Set up a mini bar with different spirits, mixers, and garnishes. Try classic drinks like mojitos and margaritas or invent a new signature couple’s cocktail. Give your drinks fun names based on inside jokes!
10. Travel the world—from home!
Pick a country and plan a themed date night around it! Cook a meal from that culture, play its traditional music, and even dress the part. For example:
Italian night: Make homemade pasta and drink Italian wine
Japanese night: Order sushi, sip sake, and watch an anime
Mexican night: Make tacos and have a margarita night
