The world is in an unprecedented state of lockdown, and being distant from your partner can be hard—whether you live five minutes away from each other or in different countries altogether. While technology has done much to close the gap by placing the power of HD video calling at our fingertips, it is only natural for boredom to kick in. Keep the spark alive by breaking the dullness of your routine video catch-up sessions with innovative ideas that will make for a night to remember. These are 5 of our favorite suggestions – no matter what your interests, budget, or available timeframe, we hope you find something for you on the list.

Host A Games Night

If you’re looking to make things lively while also getting to know each other better, swap the usual dinner and drinks routine in favor of game night. There’s no going wrong with party favorites, like Truth-or-Dare or Never Have I Ever, but a challenging free slots night also works well for keeping both of you at the edge of your seats.

Set Up A Home Cinema

Pour out a bowl of popcorn, serve any available fizzy drinks in a giant glass with a straw or toss together whatever sweets you’ve got stashed to make ‘pick and mix’. Then it’s a case of putting away your smartphones, dimming the lights, and making your selection – setting up one of your partner’s old favorites will always win you extra points, but if you fancy trying something new, in light of cinema closures some studios are dropping their new releases for home viewing, so you should be spoiled for choice.

Cook The Same Thing

For couples who are distant—or those hoping they could go on a classic third-date dinner—try cooking the same thing together and then eating it together too. Regardless of how good or bad either of you is in the art of cooking, the experience of trying to cook a new recipe together will make for a fun story to tell after pandemic. Look for minimal-ingredient recipes that won’t require a trip to the store or, if you’re feeling the love, try to recreate the menu from your first date.  

Have A Spa Night

We can all be a little choosy over our favorite self-care products, so why not take a night to call a truce? Any product is up for snag during your spa at-home date night—your favorite mask, their favorite cream, a little bit of this, a little bit of that. End with a massage. Put cucumbers over your eyes. Soak in the luxury that is escapism.

Have a Karaoke Night

Get ready to blaze your skills and sing along to your favorite songs. Create a stage in your home and use a karaoke playlist from Apple Music or Spotify for the perfect background vocals. Make it a challenge to see who can remember more of the lyrics to a classic tune, or just have fun belting it out! You may discover a hidden talent, or at least spark an offhand dance party.