What Dating Looked Like in the 1940s

Dating in past eras wasn’t the same as it is today. The limits of technology meant that many couples went and did things on their dates, active sports or dancing. There were also stricter social customs at the time, making asking a girl out a more serious question than it might be today. Take a look back at what dating was like in the 1940s with us.

Going on a date could be casual or more formal, but in general etiquette erred on the side of formality to avoid hurting other’s people’s feelings and to maintain a harmonious relationship that one’s family would approve of.

Because of the Second World War many relationships were put on hold until members of the armed forces could (hopefully) return home. However a huge number of couples jumped the gun, preferring to marry while they still had a chance. At the same time the 1940s was the first decade where teens were given more independence and could date more freely. There was both more freedom with dating and fewer chances to do so.

Telephones were not as common at home, so many people found partners at work, school, or church. Regular meetings at these familiar places meant using the phone wasn’t strictly necessary to ask someone out or to maintain a relationship.

Roller skating was one popular activity for dates for young people. The crowded rinks meant that a couple was never alone for too long. Unchaperoned dates were rarer for young people back then as it was seen as too risky.

Along the same line ice skating was a fond date nite activity…as long as you knew how to skate!

There were plenty of formal events to take one’s girl to back then, too.

Dinner at a diner was always an option as well.

By far one of the most popular activities for a date was to go dancing.

For a date during the day going to a baseball game was a popular outing.

Or if the weather was nice you could head to a park for a picnic or to watch the sunset.

The beach was an ideal outing for a date. And, it was not uncommon for couples to go on double dates, too.

For the older crowd a nice beer hall was a date night spot beloved by many.

And, we can’t forget the all-time favorite: the movies!