Alcohol is the most commonly used drug in America. Unfortunately, it is also intertwined with people’s perception of a good time. As Valentine’s Day approaches, you might already be dealing with the stress of choosing a good date—don’t let alcohol be a contributing factor to your worries!
You can have a great Valentine’s Day without the burden of being intoxicated, and there’s plenty of sober date ideas to prove it. With everything from outdoor options to the classic dinner and a movie, you and your significant other will have a memorable night.
Keep reading for the best sober Valentine’s Day date ideas.
1. Dinner and a Movie
It may be a little cliché, but it’s a classic for a reason; there’s nothing quite like dinner and a movie. Instead of going the traditional route, why not make it a more intimate experience by bringing the date indoors? Movie theatres and restaurants can get crowded; they might also be full of people drinking, which is better to avoid.
You can enjoy all kinds of movies from the comfort of your home (or the home of a romantic partner). You can even make dinner together if you aren’t feeling take out. It’s also easier to get to know one another if it’s the first date; pause the movie and get the conversation going.
2. Volunteer
One of the best feelings anyone can achieve is the feeling you get from lending a hand. If you and your significant other are trying to keep your mind off of alcohol, volunteering at your local dog shelter or food bank can help. Volunteering is one of the best ways to start your Valentine’s Day because of the feel-good energy it brings.
For people in long term sober relationships, it gives you the opportunity to reconnect with one another on a deeper level. Knowing you both were able to help others that are less fortunate gives you a clear headspace and stronger relationship. Seeing people in the morning, hanging out with others, and enjoying the feeling of supporting others will set a good tone for the day.
3. Take a Hike
Looking for more adventurous options? If you’re abstaining from alcohol and don’t want to be near it at all, you should grab your significant other and go for a hike. Not only is it a great way to stay in shape and release endorphins, but you’ll be able to get to know your date without any distractions.
If you’re new to hiking, start with something easy, then work your way up. You’ll be blown away by the magical views and can bring lunch to have together, avoiding any temptation to drink.
Even if it isn’t for Valentine’s Day, making a habit out of hiking has many benefits. So grab your backpack and get walking!
4. Go Camping
If you’re going hiking, consider taking it a step further by renting some camping gear and laying out under the sky. If you haven’t been camping, you may be a little hesitant, but it’s a wonderful way to explore nature and get to know a romantic partner.
Sure, it may not be as traditional as other Valentine date ideas, but why stick to the mundane if you have more interesting options? Pack some lunch together, find the right spot and enjoy getting away from the hustle of everyday life.
5. Get Tickets to a Comedy Show
Laughter brings people together, so why not get tickets to a comedy show? There are sure to be plenty of love-themed acts going on, and it’s a great way to be entertained for an evening. Comedy clubs tend to serve a lot of alcohol so opt for a virtual comedy show if you’re likely to get tempted.
6. Take a Class Together
You may not have loved your academic days, but you’ll love taking a fun and romantic class with your partner. What’s better than learning a new skillset and watching each other grow in real-time? You aren’t limited in options either!
Take a dancing class if you’re looking to work on your two left feet situation, or maybe a cooking class if you could use some help in the kitchen. You’re sure to bond in a unique way with your significant other.
7. Try a Staycation
If you’re not quite ready to travel together, but it’s far along in your relationship to go further than dinner and movies, try a staycation! This means booking a nice hotel in an area close to where you and your partner live. Then you can leisurely enjoy an unfamiliar nearby area.
It also doesn’t need to include a hotel; it can be a fun day trip to a nearby city you’ve always wanted to visit.
8. Enjoy a Picnic
Being outside among nature is one of the best things you can do for your mental and physical health. It gives you the opportunity to breathe some fresh air and enjoy the beautiful weather. Spending time outside has proven to reduce levels of anxiety and lower levels of activity in parts of our brain that are related to mental illness.
Going on a picnic gives you and your significant other an opportunity to enjoy one another’s company without the distraction of things going on at home. So find your local park, bring some good food, and soak up the sun.
That’s all part of the fun.
Enjoy a Sober Valentine’s Day
Everywhere you go, there seems to be constant pressure to drink. This is particularly evident during major holidays. Luckily, you don’t need to drink to have an enjoyable time.
In fact, you don’t even need to be near alcohol. These date ideas, from hiking to volunteering, are perfect for a sober Valentine’s Day. Go ahead, circle the date on your calendar and start looking forward to a great time.
If you are struggling with addiction and looking for help, SoCal Sunrise is here. We have a variety of different programs for you to consider!
