What Night is Date Night?

For the most part, the first dates I've gone on have taken place on any day other than a Friday or Saturday. Not because of any rule that I'd chosen to follow, but rather because they felt more casual and with less pressure should things not click as anticipated. Still, I thought I was in the minority with this idea, and had never had someone specifically say to me, "Can we not do this on Saturday night?"

So I was interested to read the Sun Herald's recent piece regarding the shifting of date night, especially with the 20- and 30-something crowds, stating there is:

...a changing dating scene where singles save weekends for buddies and bar-hopping...

because,

... dates during the week -- common for the first few dates of a relationship -- are casual, free of anticipatory jitters and offer an easy out if the date doesn't go well.

I wholeheartedly agree. It makes sense to me: I want a first date to be a relatively short period of time to get to know someone enough to see if a second date is in question. A weekday date therefore - such as lunch or live music after work - would be perfect.

How about you? Do you have a first date rule or preference when it comes to what night is date night?