At-Home Date Night Ideas for Valentine's Day

This story originally appeared on West University Moms.

A regular date night out is a great thing, if you can make it happen. As any good therapist (or Instagram meme) would say, the foundation of your family starts with your relationship and keeping it strong will benefit everyone. But date nights can be tricky to plan (i.e. finding a reliable babysitter) and expensive (i.e. paying said sitter plus whatever entertainment you choose for the evening). That’s why we also love a good date night in. There’s nothing wrong with a classic Netflix and take out combo post-bedtime, but we’re sharing five creative ideas to freshen up your regular routine.

Bring the Bar Home Can’t remember the last time you had anything other than a glass of wine or a beer? Brush up on your mixology skills and try out a new cocktail. Mix it up together and then sample your creation. Don’t drink? Try the same with coffee drinks, or simply whip up a new dessert together.

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This popular game subscription delivers the excitement of an escape room or murder mystery dinner to your home, making it a go-to date night idea for couples that love real crime TV shows and podcasts. Use the clues and evidence they send to solve the crime—together. Thanks to Kristin from Newport Mesa Moms for sharing this great idea!

Create a Travel Experience With young kids, you might not be traveling as far or as often as you once did (although it’s certainly possible!). On date night, pick a different country each time, and focus on that cuisine/culture. For instance, make homemade pasta (or buy it…) and watch an Italian film or make sushi together and drink sake!

Host a Game Night for Two From Boggle to Cards Against Humanity, there is a board game for every couple. And if you’re looking for something a little more sexy, take a look at this list of red hot game night ideas on Women’s Health.

Try A Day Date If you and your sweetheart have flexible schedules or can take a morning or afternoon off, you might be able to use your existing childcare (whether daycare or school) to cover you for a child-free meal out, without extra planning or cost. Bonus: You’ll have the house to yourself…

So go enjoy that time with your partner and use these ideas to take the pressure off of finding a fancy restaurant for Valentine's Day. Just take is easy, together.

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