Don’t default to dinner and a movie all summer long.  Northeast Ohio is full of great summertime date night options.  If you get a night away from the kids, are exploring a new relationship, or maybe double dating with friends, think about these fun ways to spend a summer evening.

Game night

One of my favorite things to do (year round, really) is to do a tournament date with my hubby.  We pick 3-5 games and, to raise the stakes, place our bets. (Loser washes the winner’s car, winner gets a foot massage, etc. you name it, and agree upon the terms). In the summer I like to find a bocce court and corn hole boards!  If you’re a competitive couple this is a fun way to keep it interesting from start to finish.  And this is something you can do at home, a friend’s house, or out at a bar or restaurant. 

Movie in the park

When the weather is nice, I hate to waste the evening inside a movie theater.  Movie buffs love a little fresh air now and again, right?  There are all kinds of opportunities for movies in the park. Our local recreational department has a series of them this season.  Pack some snacks, a nice bottle of wine, and a cozy blanket.  The soft grass and crisp night air provides the perfect opportunity to snuggle.  And most of the time these are free events! Here’s a great list of them.

The Cleveland Orchestra at Blossom

How about a sophisticated night under the stars? Enjoy the stellar Cleveland Orchestra in a summer setting: the lawn of Blossom Music Center.  The world-renown Cleveland Orchestra has a fantastic series all summer long where you can set up your lawn chairs and enjoy beautiful music alongside your sweetie.  Upcoming shows include a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, Hollywood Heroes and Superheroes, and Movie Night featuring “E.T.” Find more here! 

Progressive dinner at a festival

I’m a sucker for some carnival food!  But it’s hard for me to commit to just one deep-fried delight.  So we like to seek out a church or community festival and hop from food stand to food stand, sharing a corn dog, bowl of church lady cavatelli, Philly cheese steak and elephant ears.  There’s usually a band on hand or a casino tent at these things for a little entertainment, too.  People watching will also provide plenty of entertainment as well!

Wineries

Head east, west or south for a day trip out to one or more of our region’s dynamic wineries.  Take a leisurely walk around the grounds toting a bottle and a couple of glasses, sit on a patio enjoying some acoustic music, bring a crew for a group date, or tour the property and facility for a little learning experience.  Trying different flights, grapes and varieties is always fun and several places offer great nibbles or full sized entrees.  It’ll feel like a getaway on just a tank of gas. 

I’m always up for a new date night or day date idea to keep it fresh.  What are you doing this summer with your significant other?