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!

Related on EcoSalon

6 New Year’s Resolutions Better for You and the Planet
The Shocking Attribute that Most Influences Eco-Friendly Behavior
Donate, Toss, or Repurpose Leather and Fur: The Herbivore’s Dilemma

The post 6 Date Night Ideas for Bonding While Reducing Your Carbon Footprint appeared first on EcoSalon.

Love is in the air and it’s oh so toxin free. That’s the message of the Sowing the Seeds of Love getaway packages by Joie de Vivre, a carbon reducing San Francisco-based hospitality management company that wants you to get off on going green February 14th.

It’s not as seedy as it sounds, but offers high quality indulgence for lovers with some extra dough. Hey, the benefit will probably outlast a bouquet of roses.

Each time you spring for one of the romantic packages, you will earn an EcoUnit, meaning a tree will be added to the California landscape while you spice it up on your sexy weekend. This deal is available not only on Valentine’s Day, but through 2010.

How does it get you in the mood while being true to the green?

Let me count the ways:

1. Sending an E-Card instead of pushing paper messages.

You will be sure to get your spouse, f-buddy, BFF or recent Facebook reconnection in the mood with poetry like You Rock my World, You Make a Difference, and I’m Glad We’re Friends.

2. One Night Stay in one of Joie de Vivre’s 35 California hotels.

Healthy furnishings and bedding, naturally. The hotels range from The Gaige House in Glen Ellen to the swank Ventanna Inn at Big Sur to the citified Hotel Angelino in…where else? Los Angeles. Book it here. Some are pet friendly, like the Los Gatos Hotel and Spa, but do you really want a four-legged third wheel when you’re going for the romance? I say leave Fido home with a dog sitter and the Lady and Tramp DVD.

3. A bottle of organic Bonterra California wine!

You can never go wrong with wine.

4. A romantic table for two at one of Joie de Vivre’s restaurants. This could be the 4-course, Four-Play Menu at Midi in San Francisco where the selection has been inspired by aphrodisiacs such as oysters for starters and dessert of a chocolate duo, or the Chills, Chocolate and Roses menu at Fuego in Long Beach.

5. Ecodesiacs, coming right up.

This is what the company calls an aphrodisiac with a green twist. It involves a sensual organic treat, perhaps organic chocolates while you are soaking in the hotel tub, or local organic honey to drizzle on one another. How eco!

This would be a pretty transparent marketing ploy if Joie de Vivre wasn’t so committed to a green dream program of incorporating sustainability into its core business practices – one aimed at raising the consciousness of employees and guests on the reduction of waste and toxins, conservation of natural resources and the benefits of partnering with local and eco friendly businesses.

The post Sowing the Seeds of Love: Green Valentine’s Package for Ecodesiacs appeared first on EcoSalon.