I feel like date nights are just easier in the summertime. It’s warm. You can sit on a patio with drinks. You can get ice cream and wander around town. Or maybe visit a drive-in movie or a concert in a park. Date nights in the winter involve bundling up, trudging through snow and slush, coat check, and crowded, indoor seating (not ideal during the plague times in which we find ourselves). 

Here are four easy ways for nerds like us to have a romantic night in with your partner. 

1. Cook a meal inspired by a favorite film

Maybe it's shepard’s pie and “The Fellowship of the Ring,” or spaghetti and meatballs and “Lady and the Tramp,” or even ratatouille and “Ratatouille”— think about a film that has special meaning for you and your partner and put together a simple menu with foods that fit the theme. It doesn’t need to be complicated or difficult, but cooking can be a great way to spend time together creating something delicious that you can both enjoy!

2. Take turns reading chapters out loud from a favorite book

Cozy up with mugs of hot cocoa (or something a little stronger) fuzzy blankets, and a beloved book and take turns reading to one another. It can be a surprisingly simple way to connect with your partner over a shared love of stories.

3. Relax together with an at-home Elven spa day

Dim the lights, light the candles, queue up some calming music (There are some very beautiful tracks from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film scores that have perfect Middle-Earth spa vibes), wrap up in silky soft robes, and chill—Lothlórien style. A few slices of cucumber, lemon, and my secret ingredientlemongrass,added to a glass of cold water makes for a delicious and refreshing drink while you unwind together.

4. Experience new stories together

There is something magical about experiencing a new story together with someone you love. Whether it is a new movie, TV series, play, musical, or book; find something neither of you have seen before and go on a journey together. If you’re like me, you tend to have IMDB or Wikipedia open as you watch new things—but try to be present and engaged with the material you’re watching together. Take breaks (great for mixing fresh drinks, or making snacks) and talk about what you’re watching with your partner. Theorize! Make predictions! Get nerdy!