Grandma Ginger’s post in January about dates got me thinking. Yes, we all know it’s important to date your spouse (shoutout to Friday We’re in Love if you need inspiration in this arena, she’s the expert). We know it’s vital to spend one-on-one time with each of your kids.
But have you ever considered a family date?
I know what you’re thinking, isn’t everyday a family date. I mean we are already together a lot as it is (especially in the past year with quarantine, COVID and all the adjustments of the world). But hear me out: there is a difference between regular everyday family time and a family date. And let me tell you, they are always a good idea!
The holiday season gave us a lot of great family date ideas: making hot chocolate and walking around neighborhoods looking at Christmas nights, attending holiday light shows and even cuddling up and watching all the Christmas movies.
Now that we have transitioned out of the holiday season it is important we still take the time to do family date nights that take you out of ordinary everyday activities and give you a chance to grow closer as a family.
Turnkey Home Movie Night
One of our favorite family dates used to be going to the movies. We would pick a movie that we would all enjoy, load up on popcorn and drinks and enjoy the time together. I realize that in today’s situation some may not feel comfortable going to the movie theater, but my kids enjoy at home movie date nights just as much! This year, our amazing contributor Ashley is putting together monthly themed home movie date nights for the family to help make this an easy, but special, night for your family.
Park Picnics
Another family date that we love is packing a picnic and having a picnic at the park, or in a grassy area where the kids can run and play. Flower Child just opened a new takeout only location in Tempe near Tempe Beach Park, making a special lunch quick and easy.
Another favorite picnic spot is Fountain Hills. Just far enough away to be considered a true outing, the kids get so excited to go see the fountain!
Here’s a few other favorite park picnic spots throughout the East Valley:
- Playtopia at Tumbleweed Park
- Espee Park after getting wet at the splash pad (COVID safety precautions permitting)
- Sunset Park after storytime at the library (COVID safety precautions permitting)
- Desert Breese Park after riding the train
- The “hidden park” at Freestone (Hint: at the bottom of the hill near the soccer fields)
- Kiwanis Park by the children’s play area
- The LOVE sign in Old Town Scottsdale
Family Friendly Comedy Show (outside and virtual options!)
Did you know downtown Mesa is home to a family-friendly improv comedy theatre? It’s locally owned by a Mesa mama, too!
Looking for an exciting, unique and totally hilarious night of comedy? NCT Improv Comedy Shows are the perfect family date night! And guess what, they happen every weekend! This is a one of a kind domedy experience that your family will never forget. No two shows are ever the same! Kids will especially love that they (the audience!) get to shout out suggestions, challenge the performers, and decide which team of comedians is the funniest.
The best part? NCT’s Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m. Improv Comedy shows are ALL AGES, and perfect for all audiences. The NCT presents weekly improvised comedy performances. Friday nights are online for just $5 and Saturday nights are outdoors in the Sliver Lot in Downtown Mesa for just $10, making it an affordable family date that’s unique.
So the next time you are looking for something to do, consider going on a family date. I guarantee it is something that your kids will love, and you will be creating memories to last a lifetime.
What are some of your favorite family date ideas that are easy to execute? We’d love to hear!
Great idea!