Looking for date night ideas that are fun and eco-friendly? We’ve got several must-try recommendations that will get you out of the house and out of a rut.

With busy lives and demanding schedules, we could all use a little more bonding time. Whether you’re looking for date ideas for a special occasion, or suggestions “just because,” we’ve rounded up some recommendations that combine fun with eco-friendly — and you don’t have to be an environmentalist to enjoy them.

The focus is on local activities that support small businesses, reduce carbon footprints, and take advantage of native agriculture. Keeping those three pointers in mind when planning future outings could potentially inspire a long list of spin-offs that will have you trying out a different date every weekend!

1. Go Produce Picking

Most states have some kind of you-pick program that allows locals to capitalize on produce that’s native to the region. Grab your sweetie and some baskets, and head over to the nearest fruit or veggie farm. Options include blueberries, apples, strawberries, peas, broccoli, leeks, and more. Check out this regional harvest calendar and find your state. Oh, and while you’re at it, teach yourselves how to can, preserve, dry, and freeze your harvest at home.

2. Plant-Based Dining

The livestock farming industry is undoubtedly a contributor to global warming and environmental crises all over the nation. And since even the staunchest meat eater can afford to go full-on herbivore every now and then, we suggest eating a plant-based meal on your next date. Most big cities these days have at least one resident vegan or vegetarian restaurant. From raw gourmet cuisine, to comfort-style food that’s full of spices and yummy flavors, there’s bound to be an option to please your taste buds.

3. Volunteer Together

It’s always a good idea to get involved in your community. Volunteering is a great way to meet other like-minded people and work toward a similar goal. As far as date ideas go, register to clean up trash around your town. If you live near the coast, there are often beach-oriented opportunities, and if you live in an urban area, there are often city-wide cleanups that take place. It may not be the most romantic option on this list, but it’s certainly rewarding.

4. Hunt For Treasure

There’s nothing quite like finding a cute little secondhand piece to add to your collection, or stumbling onto an old trunk that would make the perfect coffee table. And when your views align with your significant other, then it’s like all is right and good in the world. That’s why we are encouraging your next date to include hitting up some garage sales, thrift stores, or vintage shops. Make it interesting by having a list of “treasures” that you’re obligated to find along the way. They can be quirky or serious, and making a purchase is completely optional.

5. Get Romantic Outside

There’s nothing quite like fresh air and a natural atmosphere to bring two people together. If it’s snowing in your neck of the woods, then have a snowman (or snowwoman) building contest. Make a game out of it by seeing who can build the best snowman depicting the other person’s likeness. Grab all of the necessary accessories (rocks, props, buttons, twigs, scarves, wigs, etc.) you need to pull it off — and don’t forget the all important photo opp! If it’s warm and sunny where you live (think Florida), then head over the beach with your favorite bottle of organic vino, and watch the sunset together after you each write a surprise heartfelt message in the sand.

6. Visit A Vineyard

If you don’t already, then it’s time to add “frequent a local vineyard” to your list of date ideas. Choosing regional wine helps out local businesses, offers environmental perks, and gives you and your significant other something to do on the weekends. Most places offer tours and wine tastings, while others have regular live entertainment and dining options. Make the most of your visit by staying at a nearby bed and breakfast for two.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our take on fun, eco-friendly date ideas that everyone can enjoy. Get out of the house (and out of that rut), and try something new this weekend! Share your thoughts with us on the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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Whether you plan on celebrating Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart, or just want keep the romance alive, we have some cheap date ideas to help you frugal couples out there.

Some folks think having a good time means spending bucketloads of money; other folks are less convinced. We know that it’s possible to have a romantic evening without breaking open your piggy bank. Whether you have only been dating for 3 months or have been shacked up for 3 years, we have got some cheap date ideas for those already frugal couples and those couples looking to bring a little more frugality into their lives.

Outside the Box Cheap Date Ideas

1. Restaurant School Dinner – If you are lucky enough to live near a University with a restaurant management program, or even a culinary school, look into whether they offer public dining facilities or not. Many do, as it’s often a critical component in their programs. You might be surprised at the quality of experience many of these programs can offer.
2. Back to Nature – The dinner and a movie date concept is dead. Or at least it should be. Getting out into nature is the perfect way to spend time with your significant other. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge or a high-intensity hike, communing with nature is a great way to commune with each other. It’s also a mainstay among cheap date ideas.
3. BYOB Venues – Depending on the liquor laws where you live, it may be possible (or necessary) for you to bring your own bottle of wine to dinner. This is a great way to save money on a nice meal. It’s not uncommon for the markup on a glass of wine to be 70 to 80 percent.
4. Make a Meal Together – There’s nothing sexier than cooking together in the kitchen. Cooking at home is way cheaper than eating out, and the hands-on nature of cooking just might lead to some hands-on action in the kitchen.
5. Enrich Together – Taking an art class, joining a book group, learning a language, taking up an instrument, or visiting a museum might all seem like solitary pursuits, but think again. There’s nothing sexier than someone who is smart, are we right? So, get smart and accomplished together!
6. Volunteer Together – Dating doesn’t just have to be all about you as a couple. Couples who give back together might just be happier together. Studies show that volunteering increases happiness and can decrease depression. So, pick a cause like volunteering at the local animal shelter, nature preserve, or for Habitat for Humanity and make the most of your quality time together.

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Image: Couple Holding Hands via Shutterstock

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