Budget-Friendly Date Ideas in Tri-Cities: Live Music, Comedy, Wine Tasting, and More

TRI-CITIES, WA — Looking for a memorable date night in the Tri-Cities without breaking the bank? From live music and comedy shows to wine tastings and local festivals, the region offers affordable ways to enjoy quality time with a partner. Known for its blend of vibrant arts, scenic wineries, and strong community traditions, the Tri-Cities area is filled with opportunities that balance fun and affordability. Here’s a weekend guide that shows how you can plan great dates — whether your budget is $10, $25, or $50.

Free and Under $10: The Sounds of Local Music

The Tri-Cities has long been home to a thriving live music culture, with its many restaurants, bars, and small venues doubling as stages for local talent. That tradition continues every weekend with options that won’t cost you a dime.

Since reopening under new ownership, the only LGBTQ+ nightclub in the area Out and About is now includes Azúcar at Out and About, featuring multiple dance floors and regular drag shows.

Emerald of Siam in Richland: This historic Thai restaurant is also a cornerstone of the local jazz and blues scene. On Saturday, the Three Rivers Saxtette takes the stage for a free dinner show from 5–8 p.m. Pairing world flavors with live jazz has made this spot a favorite for both casual nights out and first dates.
Café con Arte in Pasco: Hosting open mic nights every Saturday at 6 p.m., this artsy café provides a welcoming stage for emerging local voices. With no cover charge, it’s a date night that lets you sip coffee while hearing everything from poetry to acoustic covers.
Tapp’d in West Richland: The Shades will perform this Saturday at 7 p.m. with no cover. The laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for couples looking for an easygoing night.
Sports Page in Kennewick: For a more energetic vibe, The Van Dels and Noltē hit the stage at 9:30 p.m. No tickets needed — just show up ready to dance.

If you’re willing to spend just $5, you can also catch NightHawks at Branding Iron in Kennewick, a spot known for its country music nights and approachable local crowd.

Aeribeth Nelson and her boyfriend, Nathan Brower, share bites of a loaded chicken burrito Tuesday at the Benton Franklin County Fair & Rodeo’s opening day in Kennewick.

Comedy and Music Under $25

The area also shines when it comes to mid-range entertainment. For under $25, you can trade the quiet café atmosphere for big laughs and show-stopping performances.

Jokers Comedy Club in Richland: A long-running hub for stand-up in the Tri-Cities, Jokers hosts comics every Friday and Saturday night. This week, comedians Key Lewis and Sean Porter headline. Advance tickets cost just $10.87.
Art Without Borders in Pasco: On Saturday, The Unknowns will perform their mix of vintage jazz, blues, and soul on the Garden Stage. Tickets are $10, with food and drinks available on-site — a budget-conscious night that still feels sophisticated.
Azúcar at Out and About in Pasco: The area’s only LGBTQ+ nightclub offers high-energy drag shows and themed dance nights. This Saturday’s End of Summer ApocaLips Drag Show kicks off at 9 p.m. with tickets priced at $10. The event, hosted by Tatiana Rexia with guest Iluna Luna, is an inclusive, lively way to celebrate community.

$50 Experiences: Fairs, Festivals, and More

If you’re open to spending closer to $50 for a date, the Tri-Cities has seasonal experiences that offer more than just a show — they deliver memories.

The Benton Franklin Fair & Rodeo, dubbed “The Best Week of Summer,” runs through Saturday night. Tickets are $15 at the box office or $17 online, and they include general admission to concerts on the ICCU Stage. This weekend features nostalgic throwbacks with Smash Mouth and Sir Mix-A-Lot on Friday, followed by Latin favorites Banda Carnaval on Saturday. Beyond the music, fairgrounds come alive with rides, carnival games, and quirky attractions like camel rides and caricature artists. It’s an all-in-one outing that blends music, food, and festival fun.

Wine Tasting in Prosser: A Romantic Twist

This white wine flight at Martinez and Martinez Winery features five wines from 2022 and 2023.

For couples craving something slower-paced, the Tri-Cities wine culture is an essential part of the local experience. Just a short drive to Prosser’s Vintners Village, you’ll find tasting rooms offering flights for under $25 per person.

The region’s wine history stretches back to the 1970s, when Columbia Valley vineyards began gaining attention for producing world-class varietals. Today, Prosser and Red Mountain are renowned for bold reds and crisp whites. At Vintners Village, you can sample multiple wineries within walking distance, turning your evening into a progressive tasting adventure. For many couples, sharing a flight under the Eastern Washington sunset feels as romantic as any fine-dining experience.

Annual Events to Keep on Your Radar

Beyond the weekend, the Tri-Cities calendar is packed with annual events that make for budget-friendly outings year-round:

Water Follies Hydroplane Races and Air Show (July) — Pairing river excitement with aerial stunts, this festival is a local tradition.
Tri-Cities Wine Festival (November) — One of the oldest wine events in Washington, showcasing hundreds of wines at approachable ticket prices.
Summer Concert Series at Clover Island and Howard Amon Park — Free or low-cost concerts that highlight both touring acts and local talent.

These staples add variety to date planning, ensuring that couples have something new to look forward to every season.

Affordable Fun With Lasting Memories

From the rhythms of local jazz at the Emerald of Siam to the laughter spilling out of Jokers Comedy Club, the Tri-Cities proves that date nights don’t have to be expensive to be memorable. Add in the region’s deep wine culture and its lineup of annual fairs and festivals, and it’s clear the area offers something for every couple.

Whether you’re sticking to a tight $10 budget, splurging on a $50 festival night, or enjoying the romantic charm of Prosser’s wineries, Tri-Cities date nights showcase the best of community, culture, and creativity. For more coverage of local arts, music, and nightlife, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.