September Date Ideas

If you suffer from end-of-summer blues, we get it. It can be hard to know what to do when we can’t impress our dates with endless barbecues, picnics, beach trips, and alfresco terraces. But fear not, Fall is actually a lovely season to date in, as the natural world becomes a romantic kaleidoscope of oranges and reds, and the colder weather provides plenty of excuses to cuddle up. From pumpkin picking to stand-up comedy, immersive experiences, and bonfires, we’ve got plenty of ideas when it comes to September date ideas.

Fall is a season of beautiful colours—golden yellows, burnt oranges, and dramatic reds. Layer up just in case of bad weather, grab your match, and head out to enjoy the scenery, camera in hand. We love the idea of using a disposable or film camera so you actually get your photos printed rather than only having them on your phone.

Maybe it’s because beer (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic!) is an autumnal shade in itself, but there’s something about Fall that makes it feel like a great time to do a brewery tour. Find an independent brewery or millhouse close to you, and get tasting. Alternatively, support producers by buying your favourite to enjoy in front of a cozy movie at home. 

We might have dragged our feet on the way to compulsory lectures at school, but going to a talk you’re actually interested in is a pretty awesome date idea. If you’ve been on a few dates already and don’t mind sitting quietly together instead of finding out more about your match, it’ll be an interesting and different way to spend time together—particularly on a rainy day. Think of it like an IRL podcast.

As the colder months draw in, some people need to rely on charitable help to get through. Show your match that you care and do your bit for your local community by volunteering at a food bank together. It’ll be warm, fuzzy feelings all around as you get to know each other while helping others out. 

Immersive theatre is all the rage and a fantastic date idea as the nights start to draw in. Be it a theatre show, a dinner experience, or an immersive movie night, it might push your boundaries as you’re encouraged to interact with actors, but it’s likely to provide some laughs and will certainly be a unique date night to remember.

A perfect date idea for September is visiting an art gallery or museum, especially if the weather isn’t great. In big cities and towns there are often plenty of free exhibitions going on which makes this a fab, cheap date idea if you’re looking for something wallet-friendly. Those who live in smaller locales will often find cute independent galleries to wander around.

Don’t be moping about colder, darker, shorter days—what better excuse to get romantic and cozy up? Arrange an intimate candlelit dinner with your match (be it at home or in a restaurant) and get to know each other over good food and flattering light.

Thrill-seekers looking for a date with a difference will love an escape room date. We love this idea because it requires you to communicate, work together, and problem-solve; all essential to a happy and healthy relationship. 

People seem to either love stand-up comedy or hate it—find out which camp your connection is in before inviting them along to see your favourite comedian. Likely to provide a lot of belly laughs (or cringe-worthy flops), we also suggest not sitting in the front row, unless you want to be in the firing line. 

As the nights draw in, we can think of few better ways to celebrate winter’s imminent arrival than getting toasty around a campfire. Find a safe (and legal) place to build yours – whilst gathering firewood with your match for extra cuteness – and grab the ingredients for s’mores, then get ready to cuddle up. Who doesn’t love a bonfire party, so if you’re beyond the first few dates with your match, why not invite your friends and their dates along too?

Get some crisp autumn air in your lungs while cheering on your favourite sports team with your Bumble connection. It can be a great atmosphere, it’ll show your date what you’re passionate about—and might introduce some healthy competition if you support rival teams. 

Bread, cheese, chocolate—you name it, we’re here for it. Find a fondue restaurant for an unusual dinner date, make your favourite comfort food at home, or treat yourself to a cheeky drive-thru. Winter is coming, and everyone knows the way to the heart is through the stomach.

If this September date idea doesn’t scream fall, we don’t know what does. Find a local pumpkin patch, pick out your prize specimens, and then head home to make pumpkin pie, pumpkin soup, and, of course, pumpkin-spiced lattes. It doesn’t get more seasonal than this. 

Fall is traditionally the harvest season with plenty of crops ready to be picked. Those who grow their own fruit or veg – or have gone on a pick-your-own date – can take it to the next level by pickling, preserving and canning their produce to make delicious jars of chutney and jams to keep them going through winter. Why not make cute labels, tie them with string, and give them as holiday gifts too?

Like our pumpkin patch fall date idea? This is the same (sort of) but with apples. Ask your mum, grandma, or great uncle for that secret family apple-pie recipe and impress your match with your cooking skills. Candied apples are also a winner, and a great snack to serve at your bonfire party. 

The season of bountiful produce, there are often plenty of gorgeous festivals going on at this time of year—think wildflowers, wine, and harvest. If the weather’s looking good, support independent growers by buying supplies for a picnic and making the most of the sun while it lasts.