Dating during the holiday season can be a special treat. Of course, to fully experience this, you may need to reorder some priorities and make time for yourself and your personal needs. Don’t be tempted to put your social life on hold until after the New Year. Manage those work projects and family demands in a way that leaves you open to trying out some of the fun and romantic activities that are available this time of year.

The following 10 date ideas should help get you in the mood and may even inspire you to think of some of your own.

1. Have a “progressive” dinner together. Go somewhere for your aperitif, somewhere else (romantic and intimate) for your dinner; and then have dessert and coffee (nightcap), in a quiet place with a nice view of Christmas lights or other Christmas sights. Even better, go in a limo, so you have all your time to focus on each other and not have to worry about driving.

2. Take a vacation tour of historic homes in your area. Many areas of the country have these. They are often done at night by candlelight. Afterwards, you can take a walk and see the lights and decorations of the surrounding neighborhood. End with a coffee in a quiet bistro.

3. Dress up and attend a Christmas concert or play. You can spend a lot or very little on this type of date, depending on where you go for the entertainment. A long time before or after the meal fills the night.

4. Go and have hot chocolate with your date; Then search for Christmas lights or displays available in your area. Many venues have dazzling displays that light up the night.

5. Go ice skating together. Find a nice place, not too crowded. This brings out the playful side and encourages a lot of interaction between them. Hold hands, show off, compete – be kids again!

6. Attend a religious service together. This could be accomplished by going to a place of worship that one (or both) belongs to; Or you could go to a non-denominational service. An evening service, followed by dinner in an intimate restaurant, can fill you with a sense of well-being and tranquility.

7. Host a small festive get-together with other couples (or friends). Plan an activity like trimming the tree or lighting the menorah. Be sure to serve festive food and drink. A bonus would be to have a secret Santa gift exchange. This would be where each person brings a gift ($10.00 or less). Everyone picks a number. The person with number one starts with the first pick. Review all the numbers and open each gift in front of the group. The exchange is fine and provides some extra fun. Lots of laughs and very interactive.

8. Pick your spot, stay home, rent old Christmas classics, light the fire, and cook a simple but festive meal together. Play festive music while you cook. Then look together (a few if you want) the holiday favorites. Or, you can bake Christmas cookies or other Christmas treats together while listening to music and enjoying the fire.

9. Work in a soup kitchen one day (eat) together. Sharing the experience of giving is a wonderful way to get to know someone and deepen a relationship. It’s also a great way to get into the true Christmas spirit. After cleaning, go for a walk and then have a coffee or a drink.

10. Go to a planetarium (if there’s one nearby). Enjoy the spectacular winter sky together. There’s usually a guided “show” you can experience while sitting nearby (perhaps hand in hand?). Try to pick constellations together as you walk back to your car. It’s always nice to have an intimate meal afterwards.

See if you can add a few ideas of your own to this list. Then set aside several nights over the next few weeks and awaken those feelings of peace, joy, and goodwill for others.

Happy Holidays!