When Should We Meet? (Date Start Times)

It seems that most dates happen in the early evening hours.  We get home from work, we get ready to go out, we go out to eat at a good dinner “hour,” and then we move one to some activity.  But is that really the best way to do it during the first few dates with someone?  Going out in the evening can be a risky experience in many places and situations.  Not to mention how difficult it can be in families to find babysitters that are willing to spend their weekend, or even their weeknight evenings taking care of a few kids.  When you are able to find someone, are you truly able to trust them and spend the evening relaxed, without fear that “something will go wrong?”

I've divided the day into nine different “times.”  Some of them may be subjective, and the pros and cons will likely overlap in a few places.

Evening (6:00-8:00 PM)

This is likely the most typical start time for a date.  It’s late enough to give you time to prep and primp as needed after a typical day of work, yet early enough that you won’t be sorry if you skipped a meal.  

These hours are obviously reserved for dinner followed by some sort of event.  Often the two are combined as in the case of company parties, weddings, or other similar events.  Granted, you probably shouldn't be taking someone you just met to such activities.  They may be fine for solid relationships, but don’t make a habit of it.

The reason why this is such the typical setting for dates is because of the romance that it offers.  If you find the right seat, you might find yourself admiring an enchanting sunset while you dine.  Something that you shouldn't be worried about so early in a relationship.

Night (8:00-11:00 PM)

The stars come out, city lights come on and the hour of “party” begins.  This is the territory where most dates end.  And for those dates that start at this hour, you’re typically not looking for any lasting relationships.  All bad ingredients when looking to make first impressions.  But when is it okay?

Actually, there are many instances.  High population social activities are often great ways to loosen up and have a good time.  I mean this from any level of a relationship. The key is that you and your partner are not alone.  Dancing is by far the best example. If you know how, you know that you can go on for hours.  If you don’t, and you are willing to learn, most dancing events have a means to get some minor lessons.

Late Night (11:00 PM-2:00 AM)

You might wonder what starts at such an hour.  Way too late for food, you’re left solely with whatever activity it is that you have planned.  Of course, if you plan to stay in, there are plenty of quiet, intimate moments to be had. Movies you don’t intend to finish, but provide good cuddling. Local resorts or condos with pools and hot tubs.  The problem is that they are all for intimate settings. Which is fine if the relationship allows.

For first timers, you’ll need to make sure you’re with a group, no matter what you do.  No one wants to go somewhere alone at night.  But campfires are a great way to get to know someone and enjoy good company.

After Hours (2:00-5:00 AM)

One of my favorite activities started around this time.  We hiked a local peak during the full moon just in time to see the sun come up at the top.  With the right crowd, you could even do the same on a first time date. (But don’t bet on it).

The beauty of this hour is silence.  The rest of the world has gone to sleep and peace abounds.  Obviously you won’t find any businesses ready to entertain you, but if you have an appreciation for the outdoors (even in a city), you might find something else you never knew existed.

Early Morning (5:00-8:00 AM)

If you plan to have an all day adventure, it is best to start here. Amusement parks first comes to mind, but you might also spend a day fishing, or boating.  Or maybe you just want to start the day with a casual breakfast date. Perhaps a simple coffee coupled with a short walk.

If you’re not comfortable starting earlier, this is still a good time to catch a quiet morning sunrise.  And if you've never made a point to watch the sun rise, you should seriously consider it.

Morning (8:00-11:00 AM)

For first dates, this would likely be the most awkward time to start. However, there are plenty of great activities centered around service that happen during these hours. Find a local special needs organization or some other service community and show up ready to work.

Midday (11:00 AM-1:00 PM)

There is nothing more “low-key” than a lunch date. You can easily take a break during work to meet up somewhere and share a meal or even a drink.  Since the entire corporate world will be joining you, there is no need to worry about a scary situation.  It is public, it is short, it is precise. The best first date in my opinion.

And for those who are well established, I’m sure you can imagine some other fun things to do during your lunch break.

Afternoon (1:00-4:00 PM)

The warmest part of the day. Great during fall and spring, miserable during summer if you don’t have an escape. During this time of year though, you will find hundreds of things to do. Most public places are bustling around this time of day. Street performers in the parks and grade school shows are happening all over. Not to mention it is a great time to walk through the zoo.

Early Evening (4:00-6:00 PM)

This is what I would call the “Tourist’s” hour.  If you want to check out some local tourist stops (and you should if you never have), this is the best time.  Granted, if you are planning on a location that will keep you occupied for a day, then that should start in the morning.  For smaller things like landmarks, this is the best.  It gives you time to check out a few things before taking a break for dinner, then getting back out to see some more or moving on to something else.

This would likely be the second most popular date time since it still allows the date to bleed on into the night, or end early enough to still allow for other engagements.