There are dozens of cute dates you can go on in Calgary if you’re willing to spend a pretty penny. But if you’re looking to treat a new boo to a date and not worry about the rent this month, look no further.
BUY A PICNIC AT CROSSROADS MARKET
Yes, you can pack a picnic if you want. But going out and planning the picnic together is a great way to learn each other’s preferences and get quality food for great prices.
If you’re looking for inspo for your picnic, try grabbing produce from one of the many vendors at the front of the market. You’ll find great seasonal fruit and veg like cherries, berries and apples. Then hit up Wayne’s Bagels for astounding Montreal-style bagels. Or DIY your sandwiches by stopping by Say Cheese Fromagerie for artisan cheese in all kinds of styles and flavours. Stop by Paolini’s Sausage and Meats for some delish Hungarian sausage — it’s raw, but don’t worry, that’s in the plan. For dessert, stop by Cloud Nine Confection for some gourmet marshmallows.
And voila, a veritable feast that would put any saran-wrapped sandwich to shame.
BOOK A FIRE PIT AT INGLEWOOD BIRD SANCTUARY
You’re going to want to plan ahead for this one, because fire pit bookings can fill up fast in Calgary. Nobody wants their date interrupted because somebody else has a reservation. Booking is free, so there’s no reason not to. Don’t forget to pack skewers!
There are plenty of fire pits you can book across the city. One spot not too far from Crossroads is the fire pit at the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary.
Strike up the fire, play some tunes on your phone or Bluetooth speaker at a low volume for some ambience, and kick off the picnic to end all picnics. Get those sausages nice and smokey for the best sausage and cheese bagels you’ve ever had, then enjoy some summer-staple roasted marshmallows.
GO BIRDWATCHING
Birdwatching may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but you’re already at the bird sanctuary, so why not? Put out your fire, go for a walk and digest all that delicious food. There are plenty of birds to see at this time of year — from ducks and waterfowl to warblers, sparrows, and even hawks. Even if you and your date have no interest in the wildlife, the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is a gorgeous place to walk through, and a lovely way to cap off a cheapskates date.
