We loved dates in our home :) They are a priority for sure!
Tim and I try for weekly dates, whether we are doing something together, skiing, skating, going for a walk, or going to town to get groceries and maybe a meal. We love dates. 
Our kids love when we go on dates too....probably for more than one reason! They have a blast being home without us and just being completely silly. It's often entertaining hearing some of the things that go on when we're out. We like to surprise them on a return time to keep them on their toes!
They also like that we go in dates because they love when we show love to each other, it helps them feel secure.
We have, in the past, had dates with the kids, one on one, but we were really loosing track and not being very consistent. We also noticed, as a separate issue, chores were being done less and less without constant, repetitive asking! So, combining these things together, we created a chore for dates system. The kids have certain chores, which are mandidory anyway, and when they do a set amount, they get dates with us. They have to do they chores without constant nagging....and they have to do them on the day scheduled for their 'points'. They have one set chore a day, Sundays are off, and a bonus chore to walk the dog each day.
Anyway, it's been a lot of fun having this one on one, or two on one date time with the kids. It's not an expensive time together, in fact,we set a $5 limit for their part of it. We've played games, had Tim Hortons dates, poutine, breakfasts, gone skating, and running. It's just been a lot of fun spending this time together, and having it as a reward for responsibility!
