Hot cocoa (with some classy Christmas flicks)

Snuggle up with some hot chocolate and warm blankets and enjoy ABC Family’s 25 Days of Christmas specials, or take turns picking your favorite Christmas movies!  It’s a great, cheap-but-fun way to spend an evening with holiday cheer. Toss some jumbo marshmallows into that steamy drink for a bonus treat.

Ice skating

Did you know that some rinks have couples skating hours? Look up the ones closest to your town for the deets. Both you and your beau can go solo, or invite a bunch of other pairs to join. Snap pics and start a snow-themed scrapbook.

Volunteer at a soup kitchen or senior center

Everyone needs some love during the holiday season, so why not spread the cheer to people who might be lonely this time of year? Local soup kitchens always need help during their busiest days. And your local senior center might also need volunteers for special holiday dinners or gatherings. If nothing else, it’ll give ya more insight into your sweetie’s softer side.

Gingerbread house making

Make your own gingerbread house! Your local grocery store or Michaels should have simple kits that won’t set ya back a lot. Forgo the sweets packed inside for your favorite candies from the grocery store. It’ll make things more personal—and way more delish!

Do a drive by

No, not what you’re thinking! Most towns have a local Christmas display, or houses plastered in those bright shiny lights, so why not cruise past ’em? Can’t drive? Tip an older sib or cousin to quickly chauffeur you around. Add some friendly chatter by individually rating the views. Hey, it’s OK to have different opinions than your dude.