The first date is usually the most difficult to plan, largely because you may not have any idea what your prospective partner’s interests are.  There is always dinner and a movie to fall back on, but let’s face it; it’s been done to death.  Of course you could always wine and dine her with a picnic in the park, or wow her with concert tickets.  And then, of course, there’s extreme dating (which involves scaring the pants off a girl you hardly know by taking her skydiving or bungee jumping on your first outing as a couple).  But wouldn’t you rather do something that is both fun and relaxing?  Something that is bound to appeal to just about anyone?  Something that is neither expensive nor pretentious and will tell your date a little bit about who you are as a person?  Then you should definitely consider your local farmers market as a great get-to-know-you date spot.  Here are a few reasons why.

1. Inexpensive.  You could certainly shell out beaucoup bucks on a fancy five-star restaurant, but do you really want to do that when she might end up thinking you’re some kind of snob and do her darndest to rack up the bill (only to avoid your calls later on)?  You’re better off spending your time browsing handmade trinkets and art while you sup on some pastries from a nearby sugar shack, sip some imported Guatemalan coffee from a cart, and pop seasonal berries into your mouths during any silences (just be sure to bring an assortment of small currency).
2. Built in conversation.  There are so many booths to peruse and interesting vendors to talk to that you’re bound to develop some inside jokes before your next date.  You can go deep and flash a little intellect by discussing the merits of supporting local farms or simply debate the pros and cons of purchasing huckleberry jam versus apple-pear.  Either way, it’s better than, “So, great weather we’re having…how ‘bout them Bears?”
3. Non-toxic food.  One of the best reasons to visit a farmers market is to partake of the fresh, organic produce.  Whether you’re on the prowl for salad fixings or looking to take home a ripe melon, you’re going to find an assortment of fruits and veggies that have been grown without the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers.  Is it a turn-on that you think about your health and the health of the planet?  According to the Magic 8 Ball, it is decidedly so!
4. Opportunity for romance.  If you took a girl to dinner, you’d pick up the bill.  If you took her to a carnival, you might win her a prize.  But what could be more romantic that taking her to the farmers market, perusing bouquets of beautiful wildflowers, and picking out a bunch for her to take home.  Aww!  You may find out years down the road that she pressed one in a book after experiencing the best first date of her life.
5. No pressure.  Staring at your date across a dimly-lit table, trying to carry on a conversation with a person you barely know can be pretty nerve-wracking.  At the farmers market, there are plenty of distractions to fill any potential awkward silences and you’ll often find a local band playing for tips.  So take her for a whirl right there in the middle of the crowded market (most girls like a little spontaneity, as well as a man who can dance) and let the magic happen.  Since this date is super casual, you almost can’t mess it up.

Leon Harris is a writer for The Pickup Artist where you can find great tips and advice on dating.