Memorial Day Weekend Ideas to Break From the Norm

(Family Features) If you’re feeling pressure to plan the perfect Memorial Day weekend, it may be time to veer away from tradition. Taking in a parade and holding a backyard picnic is classic tradition, but thinking outside the box can make for just as memorable of an experience.

Consider these simple ideas to reduce stress and make your day extra special.

Take a Dance Class

" "

Learning something new together can be a great way to bond with your significant other or family members. Research dance studios in your area and book a lesson for a night out. Many studios offer new or first-time discounts and typically have a variety of lessons available from ballroom to salsa, cha cha and more. If dancing isn’t really your thing, consider another skill-building class you can do together like pottery, cooking or painting, for example.

Recreate Your First Meeting

Take a trip down memory lane and go back to the beginning of your relationship by recreating your first – or a favorite – date. Whether you went bowling, mini golfing, to dinner and a movie or something else entirely, reliving the past can be a special way to connect and show your partner how much you care. Put a new meaning into making it memorable.

Plan an Indoor Picnic

An indoor picnic. There is a tray of sandwiches along with a basket of wine and flowers on a blanket on the floor. They are surrounded by fluffy pillows and blankets.If it’s too cold outside for an actual picnic, clear some space in your living room and throw down a blanket. Pack a basket of finger foods like sandwiches, cheese and crackers, fruit, a bottle of wine and dessert for a romantic meal for two in the comfort of home.

Book a Staycation

A getaway doesn’t have to mean going far from home. Become tourists in town by booking a night at a nearby hotel and visiting some local landmarks you’ve been wanting to check out or haven’t experienced in a while. A simple break from routine can make for an enjoyable escape, even if you’re only a few miles from home.

Schedule a Photoshoot

If the last time you had your photo professionally taken was on your wedding day or a family vacation, hire a photographer for a couples photo session, and use it as an opportunity to create fun memories together. Many photographers offer mini sessions, which only take 15-30 minutes, leaving time for a night out afterward. For an inexpensive option, have a friend take a few casual pictures or use a selfie stick to help document your date.

Cook Dinner Together

A couple leaning over a mixing bowl together looking in at the ingredients.Restaurants are often booked up on Valentine’s Day, so try something different this year and make a special home-cooked meal together. Whether you make a tried-and-true favorite or whip up something new, like a heart-shaped dish, you’ll bond over the experience while creating a tangible (and hopefully tasty) reward once the oven timer dings. Then dim the lights, play some soft music and light some candles to create a romantic ambience while enjoying dinner together.

Go On a Road Trip

Take a day – or a weekend – and venture to a destination you haven’t been before on a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway. Even if traveling far away isn’t possible right now, exploring a town or two over allows you to check out new restaurants, stores or other attractions and get out of your comfort zones.

You don’t always have to do the whole generic “cabin in the woods” or “romantic hotel” sort of thing, either, if that’s just not your style. Besides, it’s all about breaking the norm anyway! Why not consider going to an amusement park? It doesn’t even have to be expensive either; for example you could explore Costco Disneyland ticket deals because they can get pretty affordable. But seriously, just imagine it for a moment: spending Valentine’s Day going to Disneyland; you can’t get better than that!

Find more ideas for celebrating memories at eLivingtoday.com.

GDPR Cookie Consent with Real Cookie Banner