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Dazzling Date Nights

Mar 14, 2022 10:37PM ● By Rhiannon Ellis

Between finding the time, the money and the babysitter, it’s no easy task to pull off a date night. For already overburdened parents, it might be tempting to just throw in the towel and skip it altogether. After all, Netflix and a pint of ice cream sound a lot easier. But not so fast! We are taking (some of) the stress out of date night prep by making your plans for you. And since there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the ideal date, we’ve even put them into categories. All you’ve got to do is handle a few logistics, grab the car keys and run out the door! 

The Romantic Date

If you and your significant other are wine lovers, Potomac Point just might be your new go-to spot for date night. There are a few different ways to experience the winery: For a classic dinner date, head on over to their onsite bistro, Le Grande Cru, where you and your honey can enjoy a wine flight and live music on Friday nights.

For something a bit more active, try out their Cellar Experience, a guided winetasting tour, or inquire within about other upcoming events. And for that special occasion, reserve a heated wine tent. Because the food/drink minimum is $200, this is a great option for a small group or a double date. If booking alone, it is recommended to make your reservation on a Wednesday, Thursday or Friday at 2:30 p.m., when the minimum food/drink order is just $50. 

The Artsy Date

Sign up. Show up. Sip up. Paint! Wine and Design of Fredericksburg’s virtual classes are a fun way to explore an unconventional date night activity without ever leaving the house. Maybe childcare is an issue, or maybe your SO is too embarrassed to explore their creative side in public. Whatever the case, virtual classes are worth trying out on your next at-home date night. Simply reserve your spot online, then pick up your paint kit from the studio prior to your session. In-studio classes are also available. 

The Nerdy-Sexy Date

Take your date to Riverby Books and browse the shelves for your favorite titles—and discover some new ones! A trip to the bookstore with your partner opens up all kinds of topics for conversation. You might even learn something about each other you hadn’t known before. While you’re there, pick up a cookbook with recipes you can whip up together at home, or find a DIY book and plan a project. On its website, Riverby Books recommends grabbing a bite to eat at nearby Sammy T’s or Soup and Taco. 

The Outdoorsy Date

Cabin fever is prevalent this time of year, so if you and your SO are feeling a little restless, strap on those hiking boots and make some tracks on one of Leesylvania State Park’s five easy-moderate trails. Pack a picnic and find a private spot to relax after your hike. The park has a lot to offer the outdoorsy couple. There are canoe and kayak rentals available in-season; there’s a 20-station fitness trail; and they offer a universally accessible fishing pier. 

The Sporty Date

For some people, nothing says love like baseball and beer! Opening day is right around the corner, so score your FredNats tickets now to reserve your seats. After the game, take a short drive to Red Dragon Brewery where happy hour is from 4-7 p.m. every Thursday. They also have a trivia night every Tuesday at 7 p.m. 

The Carefree Date

Maybe you’re the type of couple that likes to go-with-the- flow and enjoy whatever comes your way. If so, head on over to downtown Culpepper for a stroll on the first Friday evening of every month. There’s live music, lots of dining options and shops stay open late. Be sure to check out upcoming events, like 3rd Thursday Summer Concert Series, the 4th of July bike show and the Culpepper Block Party.

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