November is here and along with that, the chillier days of autumn. As we take in the beauty of the natural world around us, we naturally use this time for reflection; bringing along feelings of gratitude and thankfulness. Share those feelings with the ones you love, including your partner. Plan a meaningful date with one of these 10 date ideas in November. If you are interested in even more ideas, take a look at this list of 100 date night suggestions sure to keep the romance alive.
Create a Custom Candle Scent
Various Locations
Indianapolis is home to several DIY candle-pouring shops and November is the perfect time to create your own cozy candle. Work together with your date to come up with a signature scent to accompany all your upcoming holiday celebrations and quiet winter evenings at home. Penn and Beech has locations in Carmel, Fishers, and downtown Indianapolis on Mass Ave. You can also try pouring a candle at Unplug Soy Candles in Fishers. At this local Hamilton County business, guests are invited to bring in food and drink to accompany the experience.
Step into your own Winter Wonderland at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt
10 Carter Green, Carmel
The Carmel Christkindlmarkt opens on November 23 and brings with it so much beautiful holiday joy. This market is filled with all the sights, smells, tastes, and traditions of the holiday season. Delight in traditional German foods such as raclette, bratwursts, and pastries. Purchase a mug of Gluhwein in this year’s keepsake mug as a souvenir of your time at this magical market. Shop the vendors, spend some time ice skating, and listen to live music. The Carmel Christkindlmarkt has been rated the Best Holiday Market 3 years in a row now by USA Today.
Host an Intimate Dinner Party with Friends
If staying in is more your speed, try hosting a dinner party with a few other couples to celebrate this season of gratitude. November has become known for Friendsgiving, a time to spend with those friends you love celebrating the friendships that feel like family.
You and your date can host a traditional Thanksgiving-style dinner, a pitch-in meal, or even a themed event such as a board party or dip party. For a board party, everyone brings a board of foods much like a charcuterie board but with other options such as a dessert board, appetizer board, or even a cocktail mixing board. If you love dips, host a dip party! This idea is simple with everyone just bringing a different dip to share. Round out your evening with a signature cocktail, a fun playlist, and some group games.
Get a Jump Start on Your Holiday Shopping
Various Locations
As soon as the trick-or-treaters have had their fun on Halloween night, the retail world shifts gears to Christmas mode. Starting in early November, you’ll find local boutiques and stores hosting holiday open house events, giving shoppers a first glimpse of all the sparkly, giftable goodies available for purchase. Some events even include complimentary snacks and beverages or entertainment, adding to the festive atmosphere. Have fun selecting items to give to loved ones and keep an eye on the things your partner seems drawn to so you can sneak back and snag them later.
Looking for a few places to start? Sullivan’s Hardware, home to the Sullivan’s Express, will host a Holiday Kick-off at the Keystone and Allisonville locations on November 1-3. On November 8-10, quaint, walkable downtown Franklin challenges visitors to fill a punch card by visiting local shops and restaurants for a chance to win prizes. Later in the month, Carmel encourages guests to support Small Business Saturday (Nov. 30) by offering swag and giveaways when they shop at participating businesses in the central districts.
Breathe in the Fresh Air with a Hike
Find a new state park to explore. Hiking during fall is such a fun experience. The trails are covered in beautiful fall colors, the air is crisp, and the sun will still warm you up.
Before you head to the park, stop by your local coffee shop and pick up your favorite lattes, hot chocolates, or teas. Be sure to purchase a few pastries to fuel you as well.
Bring along a pair of binoculars to do some bird watching, a journal to sketch your findings, and a pack of hand warmers to put in the pockets of your coat to keep you warm and toasty.
Snuggle and Stargaze by a Bonfire
It may be cold but a fire can keep you warm. Bundle up and build a bonfire to enjoy with your date. A raging fire can make being outside on a late fall evening quite lovely. Bring along the fixings for smores. Add in some different types of chocolate to make some new combinations.
Download an app or bring along a guide to help you identify which constellations are in the night sky. Enjoy some hot beverages and snuggle up by the warmth of the fire. If you need access to a fire pit, there are several parks, farms, and wineries in Central Indiana that will rent you a spot to toast your s’mores.
Escape to a Cabin in the Woods
The next two months are a whirlwind of scheduled activities: parties, holidays, and family events. You may be tired just thinking about it. If you can manage it, take one weekend off and plan a weekend away at a cabin in the woods. Plan out your meals and bring along all the food you will need for the weekend. Pack games, firewood, the ingredients for your favorite cocktails, and your coziest fall attire. Use the weekend to unplug and truly be in the presence of your significant other. It is a great opportunity to connect and enjoy a simple weekend without the pull of needing to be doing all the things.
Marvel at a Beautiful Tree Lighting Ceremony
Various locations
The end of November is filled with tree-lighting ceremonies and events all across Central Indiana. These events are so great for a date night. Pick out a location close to you or one you have always been curious about. Make reservations for a new-to-you restaurant. Afterward, get bundled up and enjoy the excitement as the lighting of the tree signals the start of the Christmas season. Sip on some coffee to stay warm, take pictures with the beautifully lit tree, and sneak a kiss under the mistletoe!
Cheer on the Indianapolis Colts
500 S. Capitol Ave, Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Colts will be back in town on November 10th for their game against the Buffalo Bills. The game starts at 1 pm but the excitement and electric energy begins way before that. Park in one of the nearby lots and plan out a fun tailgating morning. Bring along your favorite party food and drinks. Make your way over to Touchdown Town before kickoff to listen to great music, play games, and grab food from the food trucks.
Plan a Night Out on the Town at Bottleworks
850 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis
The Bottleworks District in downtown Indianapolis brought Mass Ave to life when it opened. The area is now filled with all sorts of entertainment to keep you busy all night long. Some of the city’s highest rated restaurants are in this area including The Fountain Room and Modita. If you are looking for a more casual bite, head into the Garage where you can find a large variety of food stalls selling food from all over the world.
An upscale bar is located inside the Garage making great drinks and is perfect for people watching, listening to live music, and soaking in conversation with your date. Play a variety of games including duckpin bowling, patio pong, and pinball at Pins Mechanical. Head over to the movie theater to see the latest blockbuster movies. You can even stay overnight at the Bottleworks Hotel {<– BOOK IT} which is unbelievably beautiful.
November marks the end of fall activities and the beginning of winter fun. Take advantage of these 10 fun date ideas in November to get out of the house and make memories with your love. These date night ideas are sure to bring romance and create chances for you to enjoy each other’s company. We love to see all of your adventures. Tag us on your date nights on Instagram at @indywithkids and the hashtag #IndyWITHOUTkids.
Let one of these restaurants near you handle the Thanksgiving feast this year.
Get ready to make holiday memories with your family in Central Indiana!
