In the years we’ve gone to Burning Man we’ve done some pretty memorable things together on the Playa.
The one thing that Jessica talks the most about though… was the year I planned a Date Night at Burning Man for us.
That simple gesture meant so much to her and had a significant impact on her Burn that year.
After seeing how much it meant to her, Date Night will be something we do every year we return to Black Rock City.
Here’s what you should know to plan your Date Night at Burning Man
But, First! Just in case you needed one…
..here are 5 reasons you SHOULD do Date Night at Burning Man
1.) Black Rock City offers so one of a kind experiences. Whatever you end up doing on your Date Night will be something you CAN’T do anywhere else on the planet.
2.) Your Date Night on the Playa will be a memory that you and your partner hold onto for the rest of your relationship. It might end up your favorite memory from the Burn!
3.) With all the ‘over-hyped’ sexuality and scantily clad bodies roaming in the dust, it is easy for you and/or your partner to feel a little insecure. Nothing will show your partner how much they mean to you and reinforce a strong relationship better than setting aside some time to spend together.
4.) Planning a Date Night at Burning Man for you and your partner is in line with the Ten Principles – Gifting and Participation in particular.
5.) Finally… It’s FUN!
Your Date in the Dust
Put your partner first!
Like any date, it is essential to impress your partner by doing something that shows how well you know them. Think about all the things they love to do and the moments you remember seeing them happiest.
Is there something they haven’t stopped talking about they want to see on the Playa?
Maybe it’s an art piece that caught their attention, or an art car they want to snag a ride on, or even a musical artist they are excited to see. Pay attention and listen!
What are their interests or hobbies?
Black Rock City has a beautifully diverse population. If you look hard enough, you will find even the most obscure interests represented there.
What do they like to do for fun?
There is no shortage of fun to be had on the Playa. Help them get back in touch with that inner child. Reigniting a youthful spirit does wonders for a relationship.
What do they like to eat?
It would make for a fun surprise to show them you found their favorite food on the Playa.
Scout it out!
Before going on your date, it is critical to explore the city solo. See what new things are there. Use it as a time to brainstorm and come up with some ideas. The city changes every year, and having a good lay of the land will make for a smooth date and impress your partner.
This is an excellent time to figure out if there are any time-sensitive activities you want to do on your date. Most camps do have schedules for their events. If you plan to make one them, then you best know when they are!
If there is a camp, you know your partner ‘must-see’ try and introduce yourself to the camp beforehand and let them know your plans to come back with your partner for a stop on your Date Night. Who knows, maybe they will offer to do something to make it EXTRA memorable for you!
The ultimate goal here is to work out the general plan and course of events for your date. Your partner will love feeling like you have it all planned out for them. Nothing can ruin a date faster than floundering and fumbling over what to do or where to go next.
Plan to do more then you think you’ll have time to do. This way, you’ll always have something more to do and be prepared with plenty of plan B’s if needed.
Ask your partner out!
You mustn’t skip this step. If you’ve been together for a while, it’s likely been ages since you’ve asked your partner out on a date. Tap back into those days when asking someone out put butterflies in your stomach. It’s fun for you, and it will be meaningful to them.
After they’ve accepted, sort out the best day for them. Then, set a time to go. In my experience, set a time at least one hour before you want to leave. There is no need to make your date rush and start your evening off in a stressful way.
Once you have a day and time set, let your friends and campmates know that you’ve reserved that time to spend together. This is just a courtesy to your friends and fellow campers. That way, when you two disappear together, you don’t have people wondering where you are and possibly out looking for you.
Bring something special for your date
Although your date together will be a magical gift all in itself, going above and beyond to bring something special is always an excellent addition.
Long after Burning Man is over, your partner will have your gift to remind them of the beautiful evening you two spent together on the Playa.
Date Night at the Burn Ideas
⇒ Watch a fight at the Thunder Dome ⇐
⇒ Take a ride on an art car ⇐
⇒ Visit the Buffer Zone ⇐
⇒ Play a game of Slutt Putt ⇐
⇒ Find a high spot to view the evening lights of the Playa ⇐
⇒ Visit one of the many evening lounges ⇐
⇒ Dance in the dust to some deep Playa beats ⇐
⇒ Take a class together ⇐
⇒ Find your partner’s favorite food on the Playa ⇐
⇒ Try something new together ⇐
⇒ Watch the sunrise with a bottle of champagne ⇐
⇒ Have a playa picnic ⇐
⇒ Go on an art tour together ⇐
⇒ Create a scavenger hunt ⇐
The above list is but a small collection of ideas. The potential for what you can do together is as limitless as what is possible on the Playa. Be creative, have fun, and show them how much they mean to you!
A Bit of Burning Man Couples Advice
The discussion of couples, partners, husbands, and wives at Burning Man always seems to turn to one of caution, doubt, or reservation. Virgin burners are always concerned with relationship survival while in Black Rock City.
In reality, if you have a weak relationship going into the Burn, it can get worse and maybe be the end. Perhaps for the better… for both of you.
However, if you have a (healthy) relationship built on trust, openness, support, honesty, and love, there is no reason to be worried about attending Burning Man with your partner. If anything, the experience will only strengthen your relationship and give you countless opportunities to share extraordinary experiences together! What a beautiful thing!
With that said, there are a few things to help avoid unnecessary conflicts with your partner while on the Playa.
First and foremost, people tend to get cranky when they are dehydrated, hungry, sunburnt, and/or sleep-deprived. Looking out for the wellness of your partner will stave off any conflicts born purely out of physical discomforts. Trust me!
Secondly, be patient and kind as a default. If you see them struggling with something, don’t just watch – step in and help before they get frustrated. Aim to be their hero as often as possible. This should go without saying, but it is an important reminder.
Lastly, be open with each other. Create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment to share your thoughts and feelings. Burning Man is a setting ripe for awakenings and revelations. Don’t be afraid to express them and above all be prepared to listen to theirs as well.
May Your Light Burn Brightly Together!
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