By Amelia Quint

If you’ve ever gotten a warm, fuzzy feeling around someone that you can’t explain, that person might have been a Leo. This vivacious sign brings the party wherever they go, and if you match with one, your love life could soon turn into a celebration. Ahead, we break down what makes Leo love so much fun, including dating habits from the first Bumble message to the long haul, what signs they’re most compatible with, and how they show up in a relationship.

What’s it like to date a Leo?

If you aren’t sure what to say in your first message to a Leo, start with a compliment! Everyone loves to feel good about themselves, but Leo will absolutely light up when you point out something specific about them that you’re drawn to. It won’t be hard to find something great to say about these sunny individuals—they’re warm, radiant, and usually center stage. In fact, don’t be surprised if their profile has a photo or two of them in action on a set, in the studio, or performing in some other capacity. Spark their interest by asking them about their favorite movies, music, or TV series, and they’ll have plenty of excellent recommendations to share.

You can always trust a Leo to put on an amazing show, and that extends to their dating life too. Whether you belt out a few hits at karaoke or dance the night away together, they love getting dressed up and going out. Glamor isn’t just a luxury for this sign—it’s an essential form of self-expression, and one they’ll love sharing with you. No matter how long you’ve been dating, make sure your time together always feels special. One of Leo’s best qualities is that they’re generous and will enjoy spoiling you too.

What’s a Leo like in a relationship?

When it comes to Leo love compatibility, fun is everything. They’re lighthearted and want to enjoy life to the fullest, and that joie de vivre makes it easy for everyone around them to do the same. As their significant other, you’ll get the chance to meet and bond with their wide network of fascinating people, who are probably just as inspiring as they are. They light up around others, and that innate understanding of social situations also makes them attentive partners. 

Leos are natural extroverts who love being out and about, but if you’re more introverted, let them know and they can adjust. You can rely on them to champion your creative pursuits, and they appreciate it when you’re their biggest fan at their performances and events. Leo love is playful, enthusiastic, and always picks being on the front row for your life together rather than sitting on the sidelines.

What zodiac signs is a Leo compatible with?

Most compatible: fire and air signs

Fellow fire signs Aries and Sagittarius are most compatible with Leo by far, and they spark one another’s interest with ease. Leo can’t help but notice the confidence Aries carries themselves with, or a Sagittarius’ signature love of adventure. They’re all comfortable in the spotlight, and in a relationship, the inspiration they bring out in one another means there’s a good chance they’ll end up there together.

Clever air signs Gemini and Libra also make great matches for Leo since they all share an innate curiosity and always-growing social circle. Gemini and Leo never get tired of hearing each other’s wild stories and pop culture references, and you won’t meet a more chic and charming couple than Libra and Leo. 

Less compatible: fixed signs

Leo might have a reputation for being a fun-loving party animal, but deep down they’re committed to their creativity and the ones they love above everything else. Fellow fixed signs are just as devoted to their passion projects, so if they diverge, the relationship could too. Their energetic approach could be overwhelming to relaxed Aquarius. Leo enjoys going out while Taurus prefers spending nights in, and super-private Scorpio thrives far outside the bright spotlight that lions crave—but if they decide to join forces, they can find a middle ground!

The bottom line for dating a Leo

It’s easy to fall in love with Leo’s warm, approachable demeanor and dedication to making everything in life more fun. Even when it’s time to work on your relationship or shared goals, it’ll feel like play with them by your side. They shine when they’re expressing themselves through creativity, and it’s even sweeter when you’re there to cheer them on—and you can expect them to do the same for you, too. They’re generous partners, great friends, and always ready to have a good time, no matter how many years go by.