Thursday Date Ideas

Kick off your weekend early with a fantastic Thursday date night. Fridays and Saturdays come with a slew of pressure, but Thursdays can be more low key. Of course, finding the perfect date idea can be a challenge no matter the day, especially if you're on a budget or short on time. Never fear! Below, we’ll provide you with a variety of date ideas that are perfect for a Thursday night, whether you're looking to splurge or stay in. Thursdays are the new Fridays after all…

Just because it’s a “school night” doesn’t mean you can’t go out and have some fun. Here are three ways to enjoy a night on the town.

Go out for drinks: OK, this might be an obvious idea, but it’s a classic for a reason. A local bar or pub offers a relaxed and casual atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a busy week (it is almost the weekend at this point, right?). Plus, places are bound to be less busy on a Thursday than they are on a weekend night. Engage in stimulating conversations, share laughter, and savor delicious beverages, whether it's a refreshing cocktail, a craft beer, or a delicious mocktail. Many bars and pubs also provide live music or entertainment, enhancing the overall date experience.

See a show: If you're seeking a more immersive and exciting idea, a live show is hard to beat. Catch a local band, see a new play, or head out for a night of stand-up comedy and let the shared experience bring you closer together. 

Get competitive: Sort of… For a more lighthearted and playful date, bowling or arcade games are excellent options. Engage in friendly competition, cheer each other on, and revel in the nostalgia of these classic activities. Many bowling alleys and arcades also offer food and beverage options, making it a one-stop shop for a Thursday night date. 

On a budget? No problem. Here are some date ideas for a Thursday night that won't break the bank:

Picnic in the park: Pack a basket of sandwiches, fruit, and drinks and find a spot to spread out a blanket for your picnic date and enjoy the outdoors. If you're feeling ambitious, you can also find a park that has communal grills and cook your own food.

Walking tour: Take a stroll around town or through nature and explore the local sights. Stop for ice cream or coffee along the way, and enjoy getting to know each other better.

Free museum or art gallery: Many cities have free museums or art galleries that are open to the public. This gives you a chance to learn about the local culture and history, plus it's a convenient way to spend some time together indoors if the weather is bad whilst not spending money.

Stargazing: Find a dark spot away from city lights and lay down a blanket to look up at the stars. You can use a stargazing app to help you identify constellations and planets.

Local community event: Check out what's happening in your area and see if there are any events that interest you. This is a great way to meet new people and get involved in your community.

Exploring your city can be a great way to discover new places and create memorable moments with your date—especially on a Thursday, when both of you will likely have work the next day and aren’t able to travel. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Take a walk or bike ride through a local park. Get active and enjoy the outdoors—what could be better? You can also pack a picnic or snacks to make the most of your time together. 

Visit a local market. Stroll through a farmers’ market to see what’s in season (and taste free samples) or visit a pop-up market or flea market to search for unique gifts and souvenirs—you don’t even need to buy anything. Just looking is fun enough. 

Attend a local concert or festival. There are often free concerts and festivals held in parks or public spaces and attending is a great way to support your local community.

Go to a sporting event. Get into the spirit of competition and cheer on your team. You can also tailgate before the game or grab a drink at a local bar afterwards.

Take a class together. This is a great way to learn something new and bond with your date. There are many different classes available, such as cooking, painting, dancing, and yoga.

Go on a scavenger hunt. Talk about a fun way to explore your city. You can create your own scavenger hunt or find one online. Be sure to come up with a good prize for the winner. 

Looking for a cozy and romantic date night at home after you’ve gone on a couple of dates? We have you covered with plenty of fun and affordable ideas. 

Movie Marathon: Choose a theme or genre that you both enjoy, and settle in for a night of movie watching. Make it extra cozy by building a pillow fort (they’re not just for kids!) or cuddling up with blankets. Don't forget the popcorn!

Board Game Night: Get competitive with your favorite board game. Make it a tournament and keep score or simply enjoy some friendly competition.

Indoor Picnic: Spread out a blanket in your living room or backyard and have a picnic. Prepare easy-to-eat fare, grab some drinks, and enjoy a meal together in a relaxed setting.

Spa Night: Create a spa-like atmosphere at home with candles, calming music, and essential oils. On your couples spa night you could give each other massages or take turns soaking in a bubble bath, if you feel comfortable.

Recipe Testing: Tackle a recipe together. While you cook, put on some music, pour some wine, and talk about your day. Alternatively, you could take turns cooking for each other and surprising one another with your delicious dishes. We hope you feel inspired and full of ideas for your next Thursday date night. Since it’s almost the end of the week, you’ll likely be able to relax more and really get to know your date or partner better. All while keeping your precious weekend time for your friends and family—win win!