Congratulations you have your first date!

If you’ve ever thought … what should I talk about on a first date - we got you!

Much like a job interview, your goal with the first date is to give yourself the best chance to get hired. (As well as seeing if this is a place you’d like to come to work).

Being prepared with a few conversation topics and stories makes for a fun and enjoyable time for you and your date. And having ideas in your back pocket (whether literally is up to you) can ease some of your anxiety while helping you see if there’s a meaningful connection.

It goes without saying (but … it’s still worth saying) that research shows friendship is one of the keys to marital satisfaction. Even though this is your first date, you’ll want to see if that compatibility and friendship pillar is there. And having a fun conversation can be an easy way to see to uncover that pillar.

The goal of this article is to help you navigate the terrain of a first date with confidence and curiosity with over 100 fun first-date conversation starters!

Here are the 10 topics we’ll cover:

  1. interests and hobbies

  2. travel experiences

  3. personal passions and goals

  4. childhood and family

  5. favorite food and culinary experiences

  6. pop culture and entertainment

  7. dreams and aspirations

  8. shared experiences

  9. positive experiences and achievements

  10. Future plans and fun activities

1.) Interests and Hobbies: Discovering Common Ground

One of the best and easiest ways to spark an effortless first-date conversation is to discuss interests and hobbies.

Think:

  • favorite books

  • movies

  • music

  • literally any free time activity

You can quickly find common ground and ignite engaging discussions and shared experiences.

And you’ll want to share your own stories and passions so the date doesn’t feel like she’s getting interrogated. Bonus - self-disclosure is a great way to build rapport and intimacy.

BACK POCKET LIST OF FUN CONVERSATION STARTERS AROUND HOBBIES AND INTEREST

  1. "If your life had a theme song, what genre would it be, and why? Would it be an epic orchestral masterpiece or a catchy pop tune?"

  2. "If you were to enter a hobby Olympics, which hobby would earn you the gold medal and why?"

  3. "If your hobbies were a secret society, what would be the secret handshake or code word to gain entry?"

  4. "Let's say you're a superhero with a secret hobby identity. What would be your superhero name, and what hobby would you pursue to save the world?"

  5. "If you were the CEO of a hobbies and interests empire, what would be your flagship hobby and why would people flock to it?"

  6. "Imagine your hobbies had their own reality show. What would be the juiciest plot twist that keeps viewers hooked?"

  7. "Let's play a game called 'Hobby Confessions.' Share a guilty pleasure hobby that you secretly enjoy but rarely tell anyone about."

  8. "If your hobbies formed a band, what instrument would each hobby play, and what would their hit song be called?"

  9. "Let's say you wake up with the ability to master any hobby instantly. Which hobby would you choose, and how would you impress everyone with your newfound talent?"

  10. "If you were a character in a video game based on your favorite hobby, what would your special power or skill be, and how would you conquer the game's challenges?"

2.) Travel and Adventures: Unveiling Wanderlust

Talking about travel and adventures can evoke excitement and a sense of curiosity.

Sharing your sense of wanderlust also helps you understand each other's perspectives on exploration and discovery. You can talk about:

  • memorable trips

  • dream destinations

  • cultural experiences

And sharing travel experiences and planning hypothetical future trips together can build a connection based on shared experiences, aspirations, and a mutual desire for exploration.

Bonus - actually going on a trip together can strengthen your bond. According to a survey from the U.S. Travel Association, traveling couples rate their relationships as happier and healthier than couples who don’t. In fact, “couples in a romantic relationship report traveling together makes them significantly more likely to be satisfied in their relationships, communicate well with their partners, enjoy more romance, have a better sex life, spend quality time together and share common goals and desires.”

BACK POCKET LIST OF FUN CONVERSATION STARTERS AROUND TRAVELING

  1. "If you were a travel influencer, what would be your signature pose for all those envy-inducing Instagram photos?"

  2. "What's the most outrageous adventure you've had while traveling? Did it involve monkeys, a secret treasure map, or just a really spicy street food?"

  3. "If you could have a superpower solely for travel purposes, what would it be? Flying, teleportation, or the ability to speak every language after just one bite of local cuisine?"

  4. "Let's imagine you're the host of a travel show. What would be your catchphrase when you uncover hidden gems and breathtaking views?"

  5. "If you were to create your own travel cocktail, what ingredients would it have to capture the essence of your favorite destination?"

  6. "They say life is a journey, but what kind of traveler are you? Are you more like a meticulous itinerary planner or a spontaneous wanderer who follows the whispers of adventure?"

  7. "Imagine you're writing a travel guidebook with your personal touch. What would be the 'must-see' recommendation in your favorite city?"

  8. "If you were a travel-themed superhero, what would your cape look like, and what kind of misadventures would you save fellow travelers from?"

  9. "Do you have any special talents or skills that come in handy during your travels? Maybe you're an expert haggler or a pro at finding the best local street food."

  10. "If you could turn any everyday activity into an extreme sport, what would it be, and how would you conquer it on your next adrenaline-fueled travel expedition?"

3.) Personal Passions and Goals: Unveiling Aspirations

A first date might seem too early for long DMCs (deep and meaningful conversations), but scratching the surface of personal passions and aspirations can set the stage for deeper connections.

Think:

  • career ambitions

  • personal development pursuits

  • causes/projects you're passionate about

Providing a glimpse into your values and aspirations can encourage your date to share her own dreams, which can foster a sense of mutual understanding and will also reveal her values, motivations, and ambitions.

If your aspirations line up, that’s a great long-term sign! In an article about dating and shared similarities on Mind Body Green, "Many people are drawn to those who share similar values, interests, and life goals," Shannon Smith, dating expert at Plenty of Fish.

And on the contrary to opposites attracting, having different thoughts on important topics can potentially drive partners apart.

BACK POCKET LIST OF FUN CONVERSATION STARTERS AROUND PERSONAL PASSIONS

  1. "So, besides saving the world and mastering the art of eating pizza, what are some of your passions and life goals?"

  2. "If your life had a movie title, what would it be? And what would be the plot twist that leads you to your ultimate goal?"

  3. "If you had a passion meter, what would be the highest setting for the things you absolutely love doing?"

  4. "Imagine you're a superhero with a special power that represents your biggest passion. What would your power be, and how would you use it to make the world a better place?"

  5. "If you had the chance to spend a day with your ultimate role model, what would you ask them or learn from them?"

  6. "Let's play a game of 'Life Goals Roulette'—spin the wheel and tell me about the life goal it lands on. Ready?"

  7. "If you were a motivational speaker, what catchphrase or motto would you use to inspire others to chase their dreams?"

  8. "Imagine your life as a series of chapters. What's the title of the current chapter, and what exciting plot twist do you envision for the next one?"

  9. "If you were a contestant on a reality show that tested your biggest passion, what challenges would you hope to conquer and emerge victorious?"

  10. "Let's say you have a magic wand that can make any dream come true. What would you use it for, and why?"

4.) Childhood and Family: Nurturing Connection through Memories

Discussing childhood memories, family traditions, and funny anecdotes from the past enables you to explore each other's backgrounds and values.

Sharing nostalgic experiences can foster empathy and strengthen the emotional bond between you.

Discussing one's upbringing and family background can help individuals understand each other's values, cultural influences, and perspectives on relationships and family life.

This Psychology Today article on the benefits of relieving memories looked at a study that showed “that those who intentionally recall and savor positive memories experience a greater enjoyment of life. Nostalgia, it turns out, has the power to boost self-esteem, amplify positive emotions, and even act as a buffer against negative thoughts.”

BACK POCKET LIST OF FUN CONVERSATION STARTERS AROUND CHILDHOOD MEMORIES

  1. "What's the most memorable childhood prank or mischievous adventure you pulled off?"

  2. "If your childhood had a tagline like a blockbuster movie, what would it be? 'Adventure, laughs, and a snack-time obsession!'"

  3. "We all have that embarrassing family photo. Care to share a hilarious moment captured in one of your family's iconic snapshots?"

  4. "Do you have any quirky or unique ones that you continue to uphold, like synchronized dancing at Thanksgiving or a secret handshake before opening presents?"

  5. "If your family were a sitcom, what would be the catchy theme song and the wacky catchphrase that always gets a laugh?"

  6. "Did you have any unusual childhood obsessions or collections that you were so passionate about, it could've landed you in the Guinness World Records?"

  7. "If your family had a secret recipe that could win over anyone's taste buds, what would be the secret ingredient that makes it extra special?"

  8. "Tell me about a time when you and your family embarked on an unforgettable adventure. Did it involve a quest for hidden treasure or a spontaneous road trip that turned into an epic story?"

  9. "Imagine your childhood as a superhero origin story. What was the defining moment or hilarious incident that led to your powers of wit and charm?"

  10. "Share a funny family story that always brings a smile to your face. We all need a good laugh, and I'm here for it!"

5.) Favorite Food and Culinary Experiences: Savoring Common Tastes

Talking about favorite cuisines, restaurants, or recipes can lead to delightful conversations about cultural diversity, personal tastes, and shared culinary experiences. This subtopic creates opportunities to plan future food adventures together.

Food has a way of bringing people together, and sharing favorite cuisines, restaurants, or recipes can create a sense of connection.

Conversations about culinary experiences and preferences can lead to shared enjoyment, cultural exploration, and the opportunity to plan future dining experiences together.

Bonus, sharing food can build and show that we care about the person we’re sharing with. According to Omri Gillath, professor of psychology at the University of Kansas. “Think about the psychological aspect of comfort food. When people are feeling down, when they're upset, when they're stressed, food is a source of comfort. We think in part this is because of the connection between food and love. If you think about breastfeeding, babies are getting both the food and the nutrition they need, and the warmth and love from their mom, this creates a strong connection between food and love.”

BACK POCKET LIST OF FUN CONVERSATION STARTERS AROUND FAVORITE FOODS

  1. "If your life had a menu, what would be the must-try dish that perfectly represents you?"

  2. "If you were a judge on a cooking show, what snarky comment or catchphrase would you use to critique contestants' culinary creations?"

  3. "Let's play a game called 'Food Fantasy.' If you could have any meal, prepared by any chef in history, what would be your dream dining experience?"

  4. "What's your favorite guilty pleasure food that you secretly indulge in, even if it defies all culinary logic?"

  5. "If your taste buds had their own talk show, which celebrity chef would be the guest star, and what burning questions would they answer about your food preferences?"

  6. "Share a memorable food-related disaster or kitchen mishap that turned into a hilarious dining experience. Did a recipe go terribly wrong, or did you attempt a daring cooking experiment?"

  7. "If your favorite restaurant had a superfan club, what would be the initiation ritual and the top-secret handshake to gain entry?"

  8. "Imagine you're hosting a celebrity potluck dinner. Which three famous personalities, alive or fictional, would you invite, and what dish would you request each of them to bring?"

  9. "We all have that one comfort food that instantly transports us to a state of pure bliss. What's your ultimate comfort food, and what makes it so irresistible?"

  10. "If you were a food critic, what witty one-liner or clever pun would you use to sum up your dining experience at a restaurant?"

6.) Pop Culture and Entertainment: Light-Hearted Conversations

Pop culture and entertainment serve as common reference points and can be excellent conversation and light-hearted starters.

Exploring each other's interests in entertainment helps you uncover shared preferences and gauge compatibility. Think:

  • current movies

  • TV shows

  • music

  • trends in pop culture

  • celebrities

However, a chat on pop culture doesn’t have to be just fluff and surface-level. Psychology Today shared in this pop culture article “Pop culture has a significant impact in shaping the contemporary landscape of relationships. It introduces new possibilities, expands the definition of love and connection, and sparks conversations about inclusivity, representation, and equality in relationships.

BACK POCKET LIST OF FUN CONVERSATION STARTERS AROUND POP CULTURE

  1. "If your life were a blockbuster movie, what genre would it be, and who would play the lead role?"

  2. "If you were a contestant on a game show about your favorite TV show, what would be your secret strategy to win big?"

  3. "Share a guilty pleasure movie or TV show that you secretly enjoy, even if it defies all critical acclaim. We won't judge... well, maybe just a little."

  4. "Imagine you're a talk show host and could interview any musician or band, dead or alive. Who would be your dream guest, and what burning question would you ask them?"

  5. "If your life had a soundtrack, what would be the iconic theme song that plays during your most epic moments?"

  6. "Tell me about a pop culture trend or phenomenon that you just didn't understand or couldn't get on board with. What made it so puzzling or bizarre?"

  7. "Imagine you're in a music video for your favorite song. What would be the jaw-dropping dance move or scene-stealing moment that earns you a VMA nomination?"

  8. "If you could step into the world of any TV show or movie, which one would you choose, and why would you want to be part of that fictional universe?"

  9. "Share a memorable concert experience or live performance that left you in awe or had a surprising twist. Did a stage dive go wrong, or did you end up sitting next to your favorite celebrity?"

  10. "What would be your hilariously scathing review of a popular film that everyone else seems to adore?"

7.) Dreams and Aspirations: Envisioning Futures

Discussing dreams and aspirations can be a fun way to illuminate your shared ambitions, life values, and compatibility.

Think:

  • future plans

  • experiences one hopes to have

  • the ideal lifestyle can help individuals understand each other's

In addition to having a fun conversation, it can also give a peek if you two will be compatible longterm.

This article on why relationships fail shares that having different life goals is a common reason why couples fail. “If you find that someone you're dating or someone you've been with for a while has vastly different relationship desires or life goals than you do, your relationship may begin to fall apart. If one of you wants kids and the other absolutely does not, or one of you wants to live as a digital nomad and the other wants to remain in his childhood neighborhood until they are old and gray, this isn’t a fit. A better match might be out there for you.”

BACK POCKET LIST OF FUN CONVERSATION STARTERS AROUND DREAMS AND ASPIRATIONS

  1. "If you could have any superpower to make your dreams come true, what would it be, and how would you use it?"

  2. "If you were given a time machine, but it only worked for 24 hours, what era or moment in history would you visit to fulfill a lifelong dream or experience?"

  3. "Share a hilarious or bizarre item that's currently on your bucket list. Skydiving with a pet penguin, perhaps?"

  4. "Imagine you're the protagonist in a best-selling novel about achieving your dreams. What would be the dramatic plot twist that leads you to your ultimate success?"

  5. "If you were granted three wishes, but they could only be used for your personal aspirations, what would those wishes be, and how would they bring you closer to your dreams?"

  6. "Let's play a game called 'Dreams Galore.' Rapid-fire style—tell me three of your biggest dreams, and I'll give you my spontaneous analysis of your future stardom."

  7. "If you could collaborate with any influential figure or role model on a project related to your dreams, who would it be, and what would you create together?"

  8. "Describe the ideal version of your life 10 years from now in just three words. Go!"

  9. "If you were to write a self-help book titled 'Unleashing Your Inner Dreamer,' what would be the first piece of advice you'd give to readers eager to chase their dreams?"

  10. "Tell me about a pivotal moment or realization that ignited your desire to pursue your dreams. Did it involve a magical epiphany, a motivational speech, or just a really good cup of coffee?"

8.) Shared Experiences: Nostalgia and Common Ground

Reminiscing about these shared experiences helps create a sense of familiarity and connection.

Think:

  • shared experiences (such as attending the same school)

  • participating in similar activities

  • growing up in the same area

This article on shared reality and close relationships, explores how a shared sense of reality and common life experiences plays an important in making and keeping connections. Essentially, it helps explain “what makes new acquaintances feel like they “click” when they first meet, and also why romantic couples and close friends feel like they share a common mind.”

BACK POCKET LIST OF FUN CONVERSATION STARTERS AROUND NOSTALGIA

  1. "Did we attend the same school, or was it just a case of parallel universes colliding?"

  2. "If our lives were a cheesy '90s sitcom set in our hometown, what would be our wacky catchphrase and the running joke that everyone remembers?"

  3. "Share a hilarious or embarrassing memory from our shared school days. Did you ever pull off a legendary senior prank or get caught in a ridiculous cafeteria food fight?"

  4. "Imagine we were childhood rivals in the same sports team or activity. What hilarious moment or unexpected victory would be the highlight of our intense rivalry?"

  5. "Did we both grow up in the same neighborhood? What iconic landmark or hidden gem defines our hometown, and what quirky fact should everyone know about it?"

  6. "If we were part of the same club or organization, what was our notorious reputation? Were we the cool kids in the drama club, the mathletes with swagger, or the rebel poets who broke all the rules?"

  7. "Tell me about a memorable event or tradition from our shared community that brings a smile to your face. Was it a quirky parade, a legendary festival, or just a yearly gathering of eccentric locals?"

  8. "If our lives were a reality show set in our hometown, what would be the shocking plot twist that keeps viewers glued to their screens?"

  9. "Did we have any celebrity sightings or encounters in our hometown? Share a funny or unexpected story of bumping into fame while grabbing a slice of pizza or browsing through a bookstore."

  10. "What's the ultimate insider tip or hidden gem from our shared community that you'd recommend to anyone visiting?"

9.) Positive Experiences and Achievements: Celebrating Milestones

Celebrating big moments and achievements can foster a positive and supportive vibe.

Think:

  • personal milestones

  • professional accomplishments

  • moments of personal growth

  • wins that brought joy

Sharing these positive experiences can create a connection built on mutual admiration and encouragement and provide a bit of insight into each other's personal growth and values.

Even though it’s a first date, showing you’re able to let your guard down is one of the first steps to growing intimacy together.

In this Australian article on creating intimacy, they share “Intimacy in a relationship is a feeling of being close, and emotionally connected and supported. It means being able to share a whole range of thoughts, feelings and experiences that we have as human beings. It involves being open and talking through your thoughts and emotions, letting your guard down (being vulnerable), and showing someone else how you feel and what your hopes and dreams are.”

BACK POCKET LIST OF FUN CONVERSATION STARTERS AROUND POSITIVE EXPERIENCES

  1. "Share a standout moment or accomplishment that made you feel like the superstar of your own movie."

  2. "If your life were a highlight reel, what would be the top three jaw-dropping moments or achievements that deserve a slow-motion replay and a standing ovation?"

  3. "Tell me about a time when you faced a challenge head-on and came out victorious, like a superhero with a dazzling cape and killer dance moves. Was there a specific theme song playing in the background?"

  4. "If you were a recipient of a 'Golden Achievement Award,' what would be your acceptance speech, complete with the heartfelt thank yous and a few cheeky jokes to keep the audience entertained?"

  5. "Let's play a game called 'Proud and Peculiar.' Share a unique or unexpected accomplishment that you're proud of, even if it's a little quirky or unconventional."

  6. "Describe a moment or milestone in your life that left you feeling like you had unlocked a hidden level of awesomeness. Did it involve reaching a personal goal, learning a new skill, or crossing something off your bucket list?"

  7. "If your achievements were trading cards, which three accomplishments would be the rarest and most sought after by collectors worldwide?"

  8. "Tell me about a positive experience or achievement that unexpectedly changed your life's trajectory, like a plot twist that took your story in a thrilling new direction."

  9. "Imagine your life as a bestselling book. What would be the catchy title that encapsulates your journey of triumphs and personal growth?"

  10. "What's the next milestone or achievement you're aiming for, and how are you planning to make it a show-stopping success?"

10.) Future Plans and Fun Activities: Excitement for What Lies Ahead

Discussing future plans and fun activities allows you to explore shared interests and create anticipation for shared experiences.

Brainstorming ideas and expressing enthusiasm for upcoming adventures fosters a sense of togetherness.

In addition to a fun conversation, this can also be the ideal time to plan the second date!

Dating expert, Erica Leigh Gordon, recommends The Momentum Theory, “It’s best to actually plan the next date at the end of your current date. Keep in mind that the second date should not take place more than two weeks after the first date. If the first date went exceptionally well, the best thing you can do is lock in a second date soon after. The following dates should all be spaced as close together as possible.”

BACK POCKET LIST OF FUN CONVERSATION STARTERS AROUND FUTURE PLANS

  1. "What's the grand plan that will make headlines and leave us all in awe?"

  2. "If your life had a GPS navigation system, what would be the destination you're currently heading towards, and what adventurous detours do you plan to take along the way?"

  3. "Let's play a game called 'Funventures Ahead.' Share a future activity or adventure that you're itching to try, even if it's as wild as bungee jumping into a volcano or discovering the secret to time travel."

  4. "Imagine you're the CEO of a company dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences. What would be your flagship activity or event that everyone would be lining up to participate in?"

  5. "If you could collaborate with any celebrity or influencer on a fun project, who would be your dream partner, and what would you create together that would break the internet?"

  6. "Share a quirky or unconventional hobby that you're planning to pick up in the near future. Will it be extreme knitting, interpretive dance in the rain, or perhaps underwater basket weaving?"

  7. "Let's talk about the next big trend you predict will take the world by storm. Will it involve robot butlers, holographic concerts, or an epic comeback of disco fashion?"

  8. "If you were to organize the ultimate themed party, what would be the theme, and what outrageous costumes or activities would be a must for a night of unforgettable fun?"

  9. "Tell me about a future goal or milestone that's equal parts exciting and terrifying. What makes it so challenging, and how do you plan to conquer it with flair?"

  10. "What would be your 'Fun Manifesto'—a set of rules and principles to live by for a life filled with laughter, adventure, and epic memories?"

Conclusion

Navigating a first-date conversation can be fun - when armed with fun questions.

By discussing interesting topics and shining the spotlight on your date rather than yourself, you’ll be seen as a wonderful conversationalist.

And these questions can build rapport, uncover compatibility, and establish a strong foundation for potential future connections.

As an added bonus, you’ll learn if you’re not a good fit. Couples who have similar interests and think alike tend to have healthier relationships.

Remember to actively listen, show genuine interest, and allow the conversation to flow naturally, and you’ll have a memorable first date. Which could be the first of many.

If you'd like to improve your dating profile description and attract more dates, check out how to get Date Verified and date more often.

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