Cheap Dates (That Only Break The Piggy Bank)

Taking off your clothes for cards loses its charm after the first 20 times, or maybe you’re not ready to play this revealing game (not a good first date activity). So, the opposite of strip poker is “put more clothes on” poker. Yes, it is as ridiculous as it sounds. Grab the wackiest articles from your closet, and then find some crazy hats, gloves, costumes, and turn each other into ridiculously dressed, clothed covered crazies while playing cards.

This isn’t supposed to be wholesome poker, but rather something a bit wackier. Break out that Bumble Bee Costume, but only have your date wear the hat, then ask her to put those oversized sun glasses on and maybe those onesie PJ’s. Oh and make sure to take some pics. They’ll prove to be great memories to show the kids or at least blackmail photos if there’s a bad breakup.
COST: Free if you have a deck of cards

The most clichéd date of all times is the “let me cook dinner for you” fiasco which usually turns into “let me order a pizza for you since my kitchen is on fire.” Try taking the pressure out of this edibly focused date, and amp up the fun factor by making some seriously decadent sundaes. Pick up some ice cream, sprinkles, caramel, chocolate syrup, whipped cream and any other sweet ingredient and play with your food. This cheap date can easily slide from PG to R rated, so don’t think it’s just child’s play.
COST: It depends if you’re an upscale ice cream diva or can stick with what’s on sale at the grocery store. But it beats the price of lobsters and oysters.

If both of you are blessed in the performing arts department and don’t mind facing a crowd, then check the paper or look online for a night when your local bars turn down the lights and turn up the karaoke machine. The catch is that you both have to pick each other’s song without saying a word or giving a hint.

This date is definitely reserved for those who have been in a relationship for a decent amount of time and have a grasp of each other’s musical taste and knowledge. The idea is to surprise your dates, not embarrass the lucky ladies or gents and watch them being booed off the stage. And after a few solo songs, why not try a wacky duet? Beginners might want to practice with Rockband away from an audience. Just saying…
COST: The Price of A Few Local Brews..

Meet the fam Rocket Launch

Kill two birds with one stone: he can meet the family AND experience his first every rocket launch, a favorite pastime of family’s. And because they are ridiculously excited about model rockets (okay I am too), everything will be provided. Sit back in your lawn chair and enjoy the show!

Grab a flashlight, a blanket, a large bottle (or box-I won’t judge) of wine and your favorite book from childhood. Find a cozy spot and read your childhood book out loud to your loved one under the stars. The dark setting makes this experience anonymous to any passerby (who might judge the cheesy but awesome date) and the alcohol will help your best character voice emerge from deep within the embarrassing chamber.
COST: A little bit of your pride (and a flashlight if you don’t have it)

Head to a local thrift shop with a few dollars between the two of you, and pick out a shirt or large accessory (wigs are a must) for the other person. The deal is that each person has to walk out of the thrift store in whatever shirt/accessory the other person has chosen.

If you’re looking to go on a second date, try not to pick an item that’s over-the-top embarrassing. Although if the date is pretty lame, you could always pick out a bathing to send your special someone running!
COST: Why not limit it to $5 each

Our favorite Grease lightning couple, Sandy and Danny, made drive-in movies seem like a perfect scene (until Danny took it too far. No is no, even if you wear a black leather jacket).

Years later, drive-in movies are almost extinct, but you can still enjoy that outdoor movie experience in your backyard or local park armed with a laptop.
Grab a few of your favorite movies, two pillows and a blanket, and watch your favorite flick under the stars. Note: A thriller that takes places in the woods might not be the best option. Unless that sort of thing turns you both on. Whatever.
COST: Free, unless you pay a few dollars for some microwaveable popcorn. Hit up the dollar store for a boatload of cheap candy.