Five Date Nights to Beat the Winter Blahs

January [winter] can feel like the longest month of the year, right? The holidays are over, it’s cold outside, and the excitement of the new year is starting to settle. But that doesn’t mean you and your special someone can’t keep the spark alive! I’ve got some fun and creative date night ideas to keep you cozy indoors brighten up your January.

[This post contains items for sale that have been linked as part of an affiliate program where I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.]

1. Escape Room Adventure

Whether you head to an actual escape room venue or try an at-home escape room kit, solving puzzles together is a fun way to bond and test your teamwork skills. It’s a mix of adrenaline and brainpower—perfect for shaking off any January blues. 

We tried the Budapest Express at Escapology. We found the "killer" before they found us! Pete was great at the logic chart. I rocked the picture clues.

2. Cook Together

Put on aprons and head to the kitchen. If cooking together is new for you, try a recipe from a cookbook made just for couples! I’ve linked one below to help guide you with meals for two and tips for connection.

If one of you is typically the primary cook, be sure to be flexible and patient with your date. Remember why you are spending time together - it's not a cooking competition. From handmade pasta to decadent desserts, the process is just as rewarding as the meal itself.

We love Zuppa Toscana (link to our recipe post) especially on chilly nights!

3. Plan Your Year 

Okay, this might sound like a chore, but hear me out. Grab a calendar and dream up your goals and adventures for the year. Maybe it’s planning your next vacation, listing out books you want to read, or penciling in date nights every month. It’s a sweet way to connect and get excited about what’s ahead. To avoid interruption, book a night away at an Airbnb or an afternoon in a study room at the library. 

Brainstorm fun ways to connect as a couple but be sure to remember the practical items like planning your chores, family obligations, and work commitments as well.

When making decisions, communicate your expectations, compromise when needed, and work within your budget. Pray for guidance, blessings, and peace for the upcoming year.

4. Couple’s Workout Date

Get your hearts pumping—literally! Dust off those free weights or try a personal trainer session for two or take a dance class together. It’s a fun way to bond and stay active, plus you’ll feel amazing afterward.

Pete and I like to warm up together but then do our own thing. He is great at anything KettleBell related, especially Turkish Get-ups. We love to top off a workout with a sit in the red light sauna.

5. Get Cozy

Put on your comfy clothes for this easy, inexpensive date night. Practice the Danish art of Hygge [HYOO-GAH] by spending an evening together at home under the most cozy blankets. What you do next is up to you. Find a way to stay warm on a cold winter’s night. Light up the fireplace and center your conversation around connection and contentment while you sip on hot cocoa.

Pete and I like a cocoa brand called Mike and Jen’s Cocoa. It only has 5 ingredients and the taste is rich without being too sweet. The link below will take you to Amazon (affiliate link) but you can also get a good deal on a large bag from Costco. 

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it—5 ideas to make your January [winter] nights less blah. Whether you’re staying in or venturing out, the most important part is spending time together and making memories. Let me know which idea you try or if you have a favorite I didn’t mention. Here’s to keeping the romance alive all winter long! 

Cheers and Happy Dating!

To see these date nights in action, check out our Youtube video.