45 Best Ideas for Celebrating Anniversaries That Go Beyond Dinner
Anniversaries are very special occasions, a time to celebrate love and commitment. We’ve got 45 ideas to make your next anniversary epic!
From romantic getaways to fun at home, there’s something for every couple.
Whether you’re looking for a fancy night out or a night in, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve got classic date ideas like candlelit dinners and picnics in the park, and unique experiences like cooking classes and wine tasting tours. We’ve also got budget friendly options for couples on a budget.
Fall in love all over again with these anniversary ideas.
From homemade gifts to romantic getaways to fun adventures, we’ve got everything you need to make your day special.
Quick Facts
Anniversaries can be as simple as at home activities or big adventures
Trying new things together can re-ignite the spark
Personalizing your anniversary plans makes it more meaningful
Rekindle the Flame with Getaways
Let’s face it, we all need a break from the daily routine to reconnect with our partner. A change of scenery can work wonders for any relationship, whether you’ve been together 2 years or 20!
Weekend Getaway Wonders
Who says you need a whole week to rekindle the spark? A weekend getaway can be just the ticket!
We’re talking cozy cabins in the woods, beachfront bungalows, or even a swanky city hotel.
Picture this: no kids, no chores, just you and your boo. Bliss, right?
Here are some ideas to make your mini-break magical:
Book a couples’ massage
Try a new restaurant each night
Sleep in (because when was the last time you did that?)
Take a sunset walk hand-in-hand
Remember, it’s not about where you go, but the memories you make together.
So put down those phones and focus on each other. Trust us, your relationship will thank you!
Bed and Breakfast Escapes
Okay, let’s talk about B&Bs. They’re like a warm hug for your relationship – cozy, intimate and full of charm. Plus, hello, breakfast in bed anyone?
Why we love B&Bs:
Personalized service (none of that cookie-cutter hotel stuff)
Unique, often historic properties
Meet other couples (double date, anyone?)
Home cooked breakfast
Pro tip: Look for B&Bs with special touches like in-room fireplaces or clawfoot tubs. Nothing says romance like a bubble bath for two!
And don’t forget to talk to your local hotel and hosts. They often have the inside scoop on local secrets. You might just find your new favourite spot!
Glamping and Camping: Nature’s Retreat
Nature lovers, this one’s for you! Whether you’re into roughing it or prefer “glamping” (that’s glamorous camping for the uninitiated), getting back to nature can be seriously romantic.
Camping perks:
Stargazing (hello, natural lighting!)
Campfire snuggles
No distractions from the outside world
Teamwork (nothing brings you closer than setting up a tent together)
If camping isn’t your thing, try glamping.
We’re talking comfy beds, real toilets and sometimes even air conditioning. It’s the best of both worlds!
Don’t forget to pack some outdoor fun.
Hiking, kayaking or even just a game of frisbee can create lasting memories and lots of laughs.
Explore a New City
Ready to get adventurous? Exploring a new city together is like hitting the refresh button on your relationship. Everything is new and exciting, just like when you first started dating!
Our city exploration tips:
Take a food tour (because nothing says love like sharing food)
Visit a museum (art can be romantic)
Try something new together (salsa class, anyone?)
Get lost on purpose (some of the best discoveries are by accident)
Remember, it’s not about checking off every tourist attraction.
It’s about making new memories together. So ditch the itinerary sometimes and just wander. You never know what hidden treasures you might find!
Celebration Station: Party and Event Ideas
Let’s get this party started! We have some awesome ideas to make your anniversary celebration unforgettable. From a party to romantic anniversary date ideas a night out, these fun options will have you and your partner feeling the love.
Party like a Rockstar
Who doesn’t love a party? Hosting an anniversary party is a great way to celebrate your love with friends and family. We’re talking balloons, cake, ice cream and loads of laughter!
Begin by choosing a theme that reflects your relationship. Maybe it’s a throwback to your wedding day or a nod to your favourite shared hobby. Send out cute invites and get creative with decorations.
For food, why not serve up some of your favourite dishes from over the years?
And don’t forget the music! Create a playlist of songs that tell your love story.
Games are a must too.
How about a couples’ trivia contest? Your guests will love learning fun facts about your relationship.
Night Out
Sometimes the best way to celebrate is just the two of you painting the town red!
Start with a fancy dinner at that restaurant you’ve been wanting to try. Get dressed up and take some cute selfies to remember the night.
After dinner, why not head to a cool rooftop bar for a drink with a view?
Or if you’re feeling brave, try something new together. Axe throwing, anyone?
Finish the night with a romantic walk around the city.
Hold hands, steal kisses and reminisce about your favourite memories together.
Remember, it’s all about doing something different.
Get out of your routine and make some new memories!
Live Music Nights
There’s something special about live music. Whether you’re into rock, jazz or classical, we’ve got you covered!
Check out local venues for upcoming shows.
Maybe there’s a band you both love or try something totally new and exciting.
For a super romantic feel, look for outdoor concerts in parks or gardens.
Pack a picnic, bring a blanket and snuggle up under the stars while enjoying some music.
If you’re feeling fancy, see if there’s an orchestra or opera in town.
Dress up and make a whole evening of it.
Don’t forget smaller venues too!
Intimate coffee shop gigs or jazz clubs can be super romantic and fun.
Dinner and Laughter at a Comedy Club
Who says romance can’t be funny? A night at a comedy club is perfect for couples who love to laugh together.
Dinner at the club or grab a bite nearby.
Many comedy clubs offer food and drink packages so you can eat and drink while you watch.
Get there early to get good seats.
Front row if you’re feeling brave or tucked away in a quiet corner if you prefer to avoid the spotlight.
Prepare for belly laughs as comedians poke fun at relationships and everyday life.
You might even get some new material for your own relationship!
After the show, chat about your favourite bits. Nothing brings couples closer than shared laughter!
Special Experiences to Share
Let’s make our anniversaries more exciting with some unforgettable experiences! We’ve got some amazing ideas to make your special day truly one of a kind. Get ready to make memories that will have you smiling for years to come!
Up, Up and Away with Hot Air Balloon Adventures
Who’s ready to celebrate in the sky? A hot air balloon ride is the ultimate way to take your love to new heights!
Imagine this: you and your sweetheart, floating above the world, sipping champagne as the sun rises. Romantic right?
We love how intimate and special these are.
It’s just the two of you (and the pilot, of course) up there in your own little bubble. The views are stunning and it’s not your average date night!
Don’t forget to take some pics for the ‘gram.
Your friends will be so jealous when they see you living your best life up in the clouds!
Eat Al Fresco
Let’s take our anniversary dinner outdoors! Eating al fresco is so much fun.
We’re talking park picnics, beachside barbecues or even a fancy meal on your own back patio.
There’s something special about eating under the stars or surrounded by nature.
It’s like the food tastes better and the conversation flows more easily. Plus you can get creative with your setup – fairy lights, cozy blankets and a playlist of your favourite tunes.
Go big or go home?
Why not hire a private chef to cook a gourmet meal in your own backyard? It’s like having your own outdoor restaurant!
The Thrill of Skydiving
Adrenaline junkies unite!
If you want to really get your hearts racing why not try skydiving for your first wedding anniversary? Taking the leap together!
We know it sounds crazy but trust us it’s an amazing rush.
You’ll be screaming (in a good way!) as you freefall then float peacefully as your parachute opens. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions you’ll never forget.
The best bit? You’ll have a sick story to tell at your wedding cake next anniversary. Plus the photos and videos will be insane. Just imagine the looks on your friends’ faces when you show them your skydiving selfies!
Craft and Creativity: Paint and Sip Class
For a more chill but still super fun experience at painting class why not try a paint and sip class? It’s the perfect mix of creativity and relaxation – with a splash of wine of course!
You don’t have to be Picasso to enjoy this. In fact the less artistic talent you have the funnier it can be!
You’ll get guided by a pro and a local photographer and by the end of the night you’ll each have your own piece of art to take home.
The best bit? You can laugh at each other’s artistic skills while sipping on your favourite drink.
It’s a great way to let go and tap into your creative side. Who knows you might discover a hidden talent!
Romantic Gestures and Mementos
Keeping the love alive is all about those special moments and keepsakes. We’ve got some sweet ideas to help you celebrate your love and create lasting memories together.
Create a Time Capsule Together
Let’s get nostalgic, lovebirds! Creating a time capsule is like writing a love letter to your future selves. How awesome is that?
Start with a cute box or container. Fill it with:
Photos of your favourite moments
Ticket stubs from dates
Love notes to each other
A playlist of your current faves
Don’t forget to include some predictions about where you’ll be in 5 or 10 years. It’s like a fun game with your future selves!
Set a date to open it and get ready for all the feels when you do. Trust us it’s gonna be cute!
Treasure Memories with a Photo Shoot
Imagine this: you and your boo, looking rad, telling your love story. Sounds good right?
Book a pro photographer or get a friend with a good eye.
Choose a spot that means something to you both. Maybe it’s where you first met or your favourite amusement park together.
Outfit ideas:
Matching silly outfits
Dressy and glamorous
Totally relaxed and cosy
Don’t forget to bring props that tell your story. Your first gift to each other, maybe? Or that silly hat from your first holiday?
The best bit? You’ll have beautiful photos to look back on for years to come. Relationship goals!
Writing Love Letters
We know texting is easy but there’s something super romantic about putting pen to paper. It’s time to get poetic and write some love letters!
Here’s the deal:
Find a comfy spot
Grab some nice paper and your favourite pen
Spill your guts
Don’t worry if you’re not Shakespeare. Just be real and tell your partner what they mean to you. Share your favourite memories, inside jokes and dreams for the future.
Exchange letters over a candlelit dinner or leave them as surprises. It’s like getting a hug in written form. Plus you’ll have these sweet words to read whenever you need a boost.
Create a Love Scrapbook
Get ready to get crafty! Creating a scrapbook is like making a highlight reel of your relationship.
Gather up:
Photos from your adventures
Movie tickets and concert stubs
Cute notes you’ve saved
Pressed flowers from special dates
Now go wild!
Use stickers, washi tape and cute captions to make each page pop. Don’t forget to leave some blank pages for future memories.
Working on this together is half the fun. You’ll laugh, reminisce and probably discover some moments you’d forgotten about. It’s a great way to see how far you’ve come and get excited for what’s to come!
Flavours of Love: Food and Drink Adventures
Food and drink can add some excitement to any anniversary date. We have some yummy ideas to make your special day even more delicious and fun.
Private Chef for an Intimate Dinner
Want to feel like a king/queen without leaving the house? Hire a private chef! They’ll cook up a fancy meal just for you two. No cooking, no cleaning up – just pure romance.
We love how bespoke this is.
You can choose your favourite dishes or try something new and adventurous. The chef might even share some cool cooking tips.
Imagine this: candles lit, music playing and a pro in your kitchen. It’s like having your own mini restaurant at home. And you can wear your PJs!
Cooking Skills with a Cooking Class
Ready to turn up the heat in the kitchen? A cooking class is a great way to learn and connect. You’ll learn new skills and have a blast doing it.
We’ve tried this and it’s so much fun!
You might make pasta from scratch or learn to roll sushi. The best bit? You get to eat what you make.
Some classes let you choose the menu. Italian, Thai, vegan – whatever you fancy. It’s a great chance to try something you’ve always wanted to make.
Sip and Savour: Wine Tasting Date
Cheers to another year together! A wine tasting can be super romantic and educational. You’ll learn about different wines and find new favourites.
We’ve found many places offer fun themes for their tastings.
You might try wines from a specific country or compare reds and whites.
Don’t worry if you’re not wine experts. The staff are usually super friendly and happy to explain everything. It’s all about having fun and trying new things together.
Mix It Up with a Mixology Class
Shake things up with a mixology class! You’ll learn to make fancy cocktails like the pros. It’s a great way to bring the bar experience home.
We love how creative you can be with cocktails.
You’ll learn about different spirits, mixers and garnishes. And you get to drink your homework!
These classes are usually pretty relaxed and fun. You might even pick up some party tricks to impress your friends. Just remember to drink responsibly and have a safe way home.
Fun Activities
We love celebrating anniversaries with a bit of excitement and giggles. Let’s check out some cool activities to make your special day unforgettable.
Laughter at a Comedy Show
Nothing brings couples together like shared laughter. A comedy show is a great way to spend your anniversary evening. We recommend checking out local comedy clubs or even bigger venues for touring comedians.
Look for shows that match your sense of humour.
Improv shows can be a hoot, with unexpected twists and audience participation. Stand-up comedy is more traditional with polished jokes and funny stories.
Pro tip: Get there early to get good seats.
Front row seats might put you in the comedians’ crosshairs so choose wisely if you’re shy!
Don’t forget to grab a drink and some snacks.
Many comedy clubs offer special packages for couples including reserved seating and drink deals.
Strike! A Night at the Bowling Alley
For a fun and retro date night we can’t recommend bowling enough. It’s casual, competitive and perfect for couples who love a bit of friendly competition.
Most bowling alleys offer milestone year anniversary packages with:
Reserved lanes
Shoe rentals
Food and drink specials
Glow-in-the-dark bowling for extra fun
We love how bowling lets you chat, laugh and play without the pressure of a formal dinner.
It’s a great way to relive your early dating days or try something new together.
Don’t worry if you’re not pros – bumpers are always an option! The important thing is to have fun and cheer each other on.
Hit the High Notes with Karaoke
Karaoke night is a great way to celebrate your love through music. Choose your favourite love songs and sing them out loud. It’s all about having fun, not being perfect!
Here’s why we love karaoke for anniversaries:
You can sing to each other
It’s a chance to be silly and let loose
The crowd’s energy is contagious
You might discover hidden talents
Many karaoke spots offer private rooms if you’re feeling shy. Or join the main stage for a more lively atmosphere. Either way you’re in for a night of musical memories.
Don’t forget to take some pics of your rockstar moments!
A Night of Trivia and Games
For the competitive couples out there a trivia night is a great anniversary activity. Team up against other couples or challenge each other in a game of wits.
We love how trivia nights combine:
Learning new things together
Friendly competition
Socialising with other couples
Drinking and snacking
Look for themed trivia nights that match your interests.
Movie buffs, history nerds or pop culture fans – there’s something for everyone!
If pub trivia isn’t your thing, consider a board game café.
These spots offer hundreds of games to choose from, perfect for a quiet, fun night in.
Staycation: At Home
Who says you have to leave the house to have an amazing anniversary? We’ve got some cool ideas for a romantic staycation that’ll make your special day unforgettable!
Breakfast in Bed
Let’s start your wedding anniversary off with a classic – breakfast in bed! We’re talking fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon and fresh fruit. Don’t forget the coffee or mimosas!
Prep the night before to make it easier. Set up a cute tray with flowers and a love letter.
Want to go the extra mile? Learn how to make heart-shaped eggs or pancakes. It’s easier than you think!
Remember it’s all about the little things. Use your best china, add a small vase of flowers or a tiny gift. The effort you put in will make your partner feel so special.
Spa Day at Home
Time to turn your house into a spa! Start by setting the mood with scented candles and soft music. Put on your fluffy robes and get ready for some serious pampering.
Give each other massages with scented oils.
Don’t know how? No worries! There are heaps of YouTube tutorials to help you out. Follow up with face masks and a long soak in the bath.
To make it extra special try making your own bath bombs or scrubs. It’s fun, easy and adds a personal touch.
Finish off your spa day with some yoga or meditation to feel totally calm.
Recreate Your Favourite Date
Can’t get to your favourite restaurant? Bring it home! Recreate the menu of your most memorable date. It doesn’t have to be perfect – the effort is what counts!
Set the table like they do at the restaurant. Use your best plates, cloth napkins and candles. Don’t forget to dress up like you’re going out!
For extra fun take turns being the waiter. Use silly accents and be all fancy. It’s a great way to add some laughs to your special night.
Movie Night Under the Stars
Who needs a drive-in when you can have a movie night under the stars at home? Set up a cozy spot in your backyard or on your balcony. Grab blankets, pillows and string up some fairy lights for a magical atmosphere.
Choose a romantic movie or rewatch the first film you saw together. Don’t forget the movie snacks! Popcorn, candy and maybe some bubbly to toast your love.
Can’t go outside? No worries! Build a blanket fort in your living room. It’s just as fun and super romantic. Cuddle up, press play and enjoy your own private cinema!
Get Adventurous Together
Let’s shake things up on our anniversaries with some adventure! We’ve got some cool ideas to get our hearts racing and create some amazing memories together. From nature walks to stargazing we’re about to get up to some seriously fun stuff.
Go Trekking and Connect
Who’s up for some fresh air and quality time? Trekking is perfect for couples who want to challenge themselves and connect. We can choose a trail to suit our fitness level – from easy nature walks to more intense mountain climbs.
Pack snacks, water and comfy shoes. Don’t forget a camera to capture those views!
As we trek we’ll have plenty of time to chat, laugh and reconnect away from our daily distractions.
Pro tip: Plan a picnic at the summit or a scenic spot along the way. Nothing says romance like eating sandwiches with a view!
Wild Animals at the Zoo
Time to be kids again and visit the zoo! It’s a fun way to learn about animals and support conservation. We can hold hands while watching penguins or lions.
Many zoos offer couple packages or night tours. How cool would it be to see nocturnal animals in action? We might even get to feed some friendly animals.
Don’t rush through the exhibits. Take time to read about each animal and share fun facts with each other. It’s like a mini-adventure trip around the world without leaving our city!
Stargazing
Get ready for a dreamy night under the stars! Stargazing is super romantic and free. We just need to find a dark spot away from city lights.
Bring blankets, hot chocolate and maybe some snacks. Download a stargazing app to help identify constellations. It’s like a cosmic scavenger hunt!
We can take turns spotting shooting stars and making wishes. Or why not re-create our first date by stargazing in the same spot? It’s a romantic way to look back on our journey together.
Visit the Botanic Gardens
Botanic gardens are like nature’s art galleries. We’ll be surrounded by beautiful flowers, unusual plants and peacefulness.
Perfect for couples who love beauty and calm.
Some gardens have themed areas. We can visit a Japanese zen garden or a tropical rainforest.
Some even have butterfly houses – how cool is that?
Let’s see who can find the most unusual plant or the most beautiful flower.
We can take photos to remember our faves or even take old photos to get ideas for our own garden at home.
