Everyone knows that the day date can make or break the whole school dance experience. And with Sadie’s in full swing, it’s time to start planning. Although it would be amazing to spend a day at Lagoon, or go to an escape room, most students don’t have the money for that. Believe it or not, you can have a cheap day date, and still have fun, if you play your cards right

Here are 5 day date ideas that won’t hurt your bank account:

#1. Couples Painting Challenge

If you’re on social media, there’s a good chance that you’ve come across the couples painting challenge. Each couple tries to paint their partner to the best of their abilities, with a grand reveal at the end. This activity is perfect for the artistically inclined. And for those who can only draw stick figures…that’s okay. The more abstract the better!

Supplies: Paint Canvas/Paint Brushes/Paint/Plastic Cups ($1.25), Paper Towels ($1.50)……….The Dollar Tree

#2. Pumpkin Carving/Painting

Even though Sadie’s is in November doesn’t mean you can’t keep the Halloween spirit going! Pumpkin carving is a classic fall activity that is perfect (but a little messy) for your day date. Grab a few pumpkins, carving tools, throw on your favorite Halloween movie, and you’re all set! If you don’t like carving, or it seems too complicated, you can opt for pumpkin painting instead.

Supplies: Pumpkins ($.29 per lbs)……….Days Market, Carving Tools ($1.50), Paint ($1.25)……….The Dollar Tree

#3. Park Games

If your group doesn’t have a big place to host the day date, park games might be the perfect activity! Spikeball, kickball, frisbee, tag, or relay races are just a few park games you could play. And for those a little more adventurous, try knife/ax throwing or gel guns. If going to a park seems too casual, combine it with a picnic lunch. A cute gingham blanket, snacks and treats, or some music can elevate the mood.

Supplies: N/A

#4. Blind Karaoke

Is your Sadie’s group full of singers or musical theatre kids? Then, you should consider doing blind karaoke! All you need for this activity is a device to play music on. The participant, without knowing the song or seeing the lyrics, tries to guess/sing the song. Not only is this day date free, but it makes for a funny experience.

Supplies: N/A

#5. Video Scavenger Hunt

Similar to a regular scavenger hunt, a video scavenger hunt consists of multiple teams racing to finish a list of tasks (each having a certain amount of points). Typically, these tasks are embarrassing or unusual: give a stranger a hug, do a cartwheel in the produce section, pretend you’ve time traveled. As your team completes the tasks, video them to get points. At the end, add up the points and showcase your funny videos! This activity works best in public places, such as grocery stores or the mall.

Supplies: N/A

Just because you’re spending money on tickets, dinner, and costumes, doesn’t mean that you have to spend a lot of money on the day date too. Do your wallet a favor and choose an inexpensive (but still worth while) day date that your group will love.