If you're like a lot of people out there, these days you're probably trying to spend a little less and stick more closely to a budget. While becoming more financially responsible is always a commendable endeavor, being romantic and creative with someone we care about is equally as important. Even on a tight budget, date night is still an essential part of our lives together as couples.

Who doesn't love lavish date nights at fine restaurants or luxurious spas? But when such a plan isn't realistic, refer to my list of great dates on a shoestring. Here are a handful of dates, all under $10.00 for you to experience until the good times roll again...and they will roll again.

Every Friday night there's a free concert at Uptown Altamonte. You can grab a latte or ice cream at one of the nearby establishments, take a stroll around the lake, and settle into a spot at the Eddie Rose Amphitheatre to enjoy some live Jazz. www.uptownaltamonte.com

Snack your way around one of the many Farmer's Markets in the Orlando Area. You'll find kettle corn and scrumptious, fresh bagels at the Winter Park Farmer's Market and the Sunday Eola Market always offers some cool treats to enjoy on a hot summer day.

Popcorn Flicks is a free, outdoor movie shown once or twice per month under the stars in Central Park on Park Avenue, Winter Park. Presented by The Enzian, you can check their website to see a list of upcoming films. www.enzian.org

There are so many great coffee and tea shops popping up around Orlando, each with their own eclectic vibe and perfect for sitting and chatting together. In Thornton Park, you'll find a wonderful array of teas at Dandelion Communitea Café as well as one of the best lattes around at Aroma's on Washington. You can also wander just around the corner to Infusion Tea inside Urban Think which features a ton of great beverages and snacks. Infusion Tea also has a location in College Park.

As the temperature soars, the need to chill out becomes a priority. For the ultimate cool down, head to Kelly Park (a.k.a. Rock Springs) in Apopka for a float down the crystal, clear spring. For just $5.00, you can rent a tube and take a leisurely, 25-minute trip downstream. When you get to the bottom, you just grab your tube and head back up along the boardwalk for another run. Pack a picnic and enjoy the day! Kelly Park Info

Don't give up on your date nights just because the budget is tight. With a little bit of ingenuity, you can create fun and romantic times together.

Happy dating...

The Date Diva
www.thedatediva.com

Have comments or ideas to share? E-mail The Date Diva

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