10 Holiday-Inspired First Date Ideas in Southern California
First-date jitters can be a lot to handle. But pepper in the hectic cheer of the holidays? It’s enough to make you think you don’t have the time for a Holiday-time date! But don’t worry, at The List, date planning is kind of our thing. Here are our favorite holiday-inspired first date ideas in Southern California.
1. Ride a Swan Boat in Echo Park
Take advantage of the beautiful Socal weather to take your new sweetie to the park—Echo park that is. A romantic boat ride is always a first date classic sure to woo your partner; plus, it’s a great backdrop for a meaningful conversation sure to connect you two. Rent a boat from Wheel Fun Rentals and start paddling the Echo Park Lake, with a peppermint hot cocoa in hand.
2. Explore Downtown Disney in Anaheim
For the Disney fans, get in the spirit and walk the Downtown area of Disneyland with your new date. Not only is it famously decorated in romantic Christmas lighting, lending itself to a romantic stroll between the two of you, but it shows your softer side as well! Unlike the Disney park, Downtown is free and easy to enter, making it memorable for all.
3. Get an Instagram-Worthy Date at Morning Lavender Cafe in Tustin
For the influencers and suckers for pretty food, finding an Instagram-worthy spot is always worth the extra time spent. Not only is it a playful and fun first date, but it also almost guarantees you’ll get a memory of your first outing to show the grandkids (fingers crossed). We recommend Morning Lavender Cafe in Tustin, but you can also opt to search for #shopsmall and #supportsocal hashtags to find your perfect post.
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4. Feel Enchanted at the Forest of Light in La Cañada Flintridge
Head to what’s been dubbed the most stunning holiday display in L.A. by Timeout. Over at Descanso Gardens, you’ll find eight illuminated installations from enchanted forests to free-standing art pieces, perfect for a romantic and seasonal date night in L.A.
5. Discover the Mission Inn Festival of Lights in Riverside
For those closer to the 951, head to the Mission Inn Festival of Lights for an extravagant display. Named one of the top destinations for holiday lights in the whole United States, it’ll be a first date to remember–and one you can repeat year after year (hopefully with the same person!).
6. Watch a Christmas Movie at the Heritage Square Museum
Who doesn’t love the classic dinner and a movie for a first date in Southern California? Add a bit of Christmas spice to the classic plan by heading to the Yuletide Cinemaland for a series of outdoor movie screenings. Held at the impressive Heritage Square Museum, you can catch holiday films like It’s a Wonderful Life and Elf.
7. Go Skating by the Sea at Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego
For those further south, check out the iconic resort and its towering Christmas trees and snowy decor. Show your new love interest a white Christmas to remember, followed by an ice skating treat. Everything you need for a full date night is right there.
8. Enjoy a Classic Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena
Just north of Pasadena, you can find a traditional Christmas Tree Lane to take your date on an adventure. This holiday tradition has been running for more than 90 years and is perfect to drive through before heading to dinner or as a romantic end to the perfect date.
9. View the LA Zoo Lights in Los Angeles
For the animal lovers, do something a bit different and check out the LA Zoo Lights. Already an impressive zoo with lots to do, go see how the walkways are lit up around the holidays, making it a unique date night in Southern California perfect for strolling, learning about wildlife, and getting to know your partner.
10. See the Queen Mary in a New Light in Long Beach
LBC-bound babes can check out a Long Beach icon, the Queen Mary. This time of year, the iconic ship is transformed into a winter wonderland. Learn its history, view the Christmas decor, and enjoy the waterfront alongside musical performances.
Let The List Plan the Dates for You, Year-Round
As you can see, first dates can be—and should be— ever so much more than a dinner that turns into an interview or a quick drink at a bar. It can be filled with wonder, romance, and intrigue, especially around the holidays.
If you enjoyed these date ideas around Southern California but don’t have the time to plan your own mesmerizing ideas, The List app can help. Made specifically for busy professionals in SoCal, you’ll be assigned your very own matchmaker to vet matches for you, set up romantic plans, and provide feedback post-date. Get in touch to see how The List can help you find love today.