Looking to break out of your routine and try something new with your partner? Exploring a hobby together is a fun way to create shared interests and become even closer! Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, getting creative, or giving back to the community, there’s something for every couple to explore this year.

Here are 10 hobby ideas to inspire you and keep the spark alive all year long!

1. Book Club for Two

Turn reading into a shared experience by starting your own mini book club! Choose a book that interests both of you, whether it’s an exciting thriller, a heartwarming romance or a motivational nonfiction. 

Set aside time to discuss your thoughts, favourite moments, and even debate about the characters. It’s a relaxing way to bond while sparking meaningful conversations.

2. Outdoor or Landscape Photography

Grab a camera or even just your phones and head outdoors to explore our country’s stunning landscapes. From majestic mountains to serene lakes, you’ll find endless opportunities to capture beautiful shots together. 

Photography can allow you both to slow down and appreciate the little details around you. Plus, you’ll create a gallery of memories that you can look back on for years to come!

3. Learn to Cook

Whether it’s picking out a cookbook together and choosing a different recipe to make each week, or choosing a “secret ingredient” and making up a recipe on the fly, you will learn a necessary skill while making it fun and bringing the two of you closer. Pick a different cuisine each week, like Italian, Thai or even classic Canadian comfort food! 

Not only will you learn new skills, but cooking together can also be a fun way to problem-solve and laugh through all the kitchen mishaps. Best of all, you get to enjoy a (hopefully) delicious meal at the end of your efforts!

4. Skiing or Snowboarding

Embrace Canada’s snowy winters by hitting the slopes together. Whether you’re beginners learning the basics or seasoned pros, these sports offer a mix of excitement and exercise with resorts spread out throughout the whole country. 

Spend the day gliding through fresh powder and cozying up together afterward with hot chocolate. It’s a great way to stay active during the colder months while enjoying Canada’s breathtaking winter scenery!

5. Gardening Together

Transform your outdoor space (or even your balcony) into a beautiful garden filled with plants, flowers or vegetables. Gardening can not only be relaxing but also a wonderful way to work on a long-term project as a team. 

You can grow fresh ingredients for your meals or just enjoy the beauty of blooming flowers. If space is limited, try indoor projects like growing herbs or building a terrarium!

6. Pottery and Ceramics

Tap into your creative sides by signing up for a pottery or ceramics course together. Don’t take it too seriously, your creations don’t have to be perfect! Half the fun is in the process (and laughing at your potentially wonky creations)! 

Plus, you’ll have unique handmade keepsakes to remind you of the experience and physical markers to track your progress together.

7. Hiking or Running

Get outside and move together by exploring hiking trails or starting a running routine. Hiking lets you connect with nature while enjoying each other’s company, and running could give you both the chance to set and achieve fitness goals as a team. 

It’s a healthy and motivating way to spend time together, and you could even join a running club, getting closer to each other while forming new connections and relationships!

8. Volunteering Together

Make a difference while spending quality time together by volunteering in your community. Whether it’s helping out at a food bank, participating in park clean-ups or supporting local animal shelters, there’s bound to be a charity or non-profit in your city that would aline with both of your values.

Volunteering could not only strengthen your relationship but also leave you feeling fulfilled and connected to your community. You’ll create meaningful memories while giving back to those in need!

9. Rock Climbing (Indoor or Outdoor)

Challenge yourselves physically and mentally by trying rock climbing. Indoor climbing gyms are a great place to start, with guided lessons and plenty of routes for beginners.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take your skills outdoors to one of the many scenic climbing spots across the country. Working together to navigate climbs and support each other could build trust and communication — plus, it’s a great workout!

10. Thrifting, DIY Projects and Flipping Furniture

Channel your inner DIY pros by thrifting unique finds and turning them into something even more special. Hit up local thrift stores, flea markets or garage sales to find items you can repurpose or flip.

From painting furniture to creating home décor, these projects let you combine creativity and teamwork and rely on each other’s strong suits to create something beautiful!

Looking to learn more with your partner this year? Check out these workshops you could do in Calgary!