Holiday Savings

Your pocketbook may be feeling a little lighter this month, as you shop for holiday gifts for friends and family, but don't let your lack of funds slow down your dating calendar. There are a ton of, dare we say, cheap options for dates over the winter months. Here are few ideas to inspire Vancouver singles on a holiday budget:

1. Robson Square Ice Rink:

Skating is a great idea for a date. Lots of people, small space, plenty of post-skating activities in the area and it only costs $3. If you bring your own skates it's free! The rink is super small, which gives the date a more intimate vibe. It also means less pressure if you're not the greatest skater. If you are a pro, you may want to hide your skills.

2. Bike Lights

Try a different spin on the vehicular Christmas light tour. Bundle up, throw some dollar store Christmas lights on your bikes and tour the cities brightest light displays. Finish with the giant tree at English Bay. You can grab a hot chocolate at the Davie and Denman Starbucks and walk down to the beach for a quiet end to the evening.

3. Downtown Shopping

Two birds with one stone - suggest a shopping date. Even if you hate shopping, having someone else along to help you pick out gifts for your family is always a plus. Share a few laughs over joke gifts and bond over family Christmas stories.

4. Hike to Hollyburn Lodge

Take a winter walk through the forest to Hollyburn Lodge on Cypress Mountain. The fully licensed lodge has live music on the weekends and long tables for meeting new friends. Spend the walk getting to know each other, before entering the lodge; the noise level can be a little high on the weekends. Make sure to bring a headlamp or a small flashlight. If you do have a few more dollars to spare, try the Chocolate Fondue Tours offered by the Cypress Mountain Nordic Area.

5. Art Gallery Tuesdays

Admission to the Vancouver Art Gallery is 'by donation' on Tuesday nights after 5pm. Show your sophisticated side and take a stroll through the VAG. Winter exhibits include the Korean textile based artist Kimsooja and the multi-media artist Antoni Muntadas.

6. German Christmas

The German Christmas market is a great spot to take in some classic holiday cheer. Entry tickets are only $3 during the weekdays and $6 on the weekend and evenings. Try some sausage and Glühwein and wander the craft tables. Take a ride on the carousel for only $3 and show your date the kid inside you.