Fun things to do on a summer day in Eugene.

When I joined this newspaper at the beginning of my junior year, I never would have imagined that my most recurrent story over the next two years would fall under the Arts and Entertainment category, as a column suggesting date ideas.

Me? Really? A reporter who liked to focus on news? A high schooler who had never been on a date (and still has not)? It didn’t seem to be a likely position. It still doesn’t.

But I’ve grown to love writing in the Arts and Entertainment section over my time on the staff of The Axe. I think my experience writing for the section has given me versatility and peace of mind in a manner that I didn’t expect—and, most importantly, it has been fun to write. I greatly appreciate all the readership, too, that this column has received, and all of the lovely date suggestions that many people have presented to me. Thank you all for supporting me in my rather unqualified position. 

So, without further ado, here are my final date ideas. Enjoy, South!

Go Rock Climbing

I know, I know—I’ve included rock climbing in this column before. This time, however, I suggest that you do it outside. Rock climbing is not only great exercise, but also challenges you to be vulnerable in front of people you love—feeling all the more empowering once you’ve conquered a rock or route.

In Eugene, the most popular outdoor rock climbing area is located at The Columns in Skinner Butte Park, but there are many more if you venture out of town for a short trip. Wherever you choose to climb, you’re sure to have a wonderful (albeit challenging) time while exercising your body and relationship.

Go Fly a Kite

Stop letting the world fly by while you scroll endlessly on your phone, trapped in the deep, unemotional world of social media and the internet. Get outside with your partner and do something fun—take advantage of that chilling wind! If you have a kite, take it for a flight. Let your minds drift away together, floating along to the rhythm of each ebb and flow of the wind, then let rational thought gently set you back onto the ground as the kite, too, slowly falls down with you. The isolation that accompanies you in the middle of an empty field will spur lively conversation so that you and your partner can have the best time possible. 

Have a Backyard Picnic 

As spring turns to summer, it’s impossible not to suggest having a picnic date, and why not make it more personal? Plan a picnic in your backyard, setting up the necessary lights and blankets in order to make the aesthetic as special as possible. Cook dinner together in the comfort of your own home, and then take in the clear skies as you feast upon your creation. Maybe you’ll make a dessert, too, since you’ve got the whole evening to enjoy. If you eat until the sun goes down, turn out the lights and immerse yourself in the tranquility of stargazing with your loved one. Find your favorite constellations and share with one another your intergalactic thoughts and wonderings. When the night’s all over, you can be proud of your accomplishments in the kitchen and happy at the thought of sharing such an evening with someone you love so dearly.

Article by Basil Dracobly