If you have ached to travel to that exciting vacation spot, attend the hottest concert in town, or hit the latest club but then remind yourself that ‘you can’t afford to have fun,’ we’re here to tell you that living a frugal life doesn’t mean leading a boring life! There are many ways to entertain yourself, your family, and your friends while on a budget.
Americans spend over $3,500 on entertainment a year. That’s a staggering statistic but it’s very much possible to enjoy a social life on a budget. So, if you’re looking to cut down on your entertainment expenses and save money, let’s explore some fun things to do with your loved ones that are totally free!
Visit a Zoo, Museum, or Aquarium
Most zoos, museums, and aquariums waive admission fees on special days. Of course, they might be relatively crowded on such days, but having fun with your family or friends without spending any money is worth it. Needless to say, the kids will have a fabulous time!
Go Camping
Some campgrounds charge a small fee, but you can also find free dispersed camping campsites, such as national forest land. There are some rules to follow, like maintaining a distance from developed campgrounds and water sources, but besides that, camping can be a great outdoor adventure.
Organize Games
Games are a great way to be entertained, irrespective of age. So break out a board game, deck of cards, puzzles, or video games. If you want something more outdoorsy, play basketball with your friends at the park or join a recreational sports league in your community, some of which are entirely free.
Arrange a Picnic
Select your favorite outdoor spot, pack your basket with items in your pantry, and relax outdoors. A little bit of research and an adventure spirit can help you discover hidden nature spots that kids will forever remember as great childhood memories!
Stargazing
If you have a tent and sleeping bag, grab a few friends or family and head to a camping site to rejuvenate in nature. There are few things that can top the sheer majesty of looking at stars on a clear night sky. It won’t cost you a cent, but it can prove to be a philosophical journey, especially when you consider how small you are in the context of the sprawling universe above you!
Take a Trip To The Farmers Market
Your local farmers market is a great place to find locally grown vegetables and fruits at a lower price than the grocery store. Plus, they usually have many free samples to try out, too. Pick a few items you wouldn’t usually purchase and challenge yourself to make something new. By doing so, you’re not only being thrifty by not dining out but also improving your cooking skills.
Go For a Walk
Take a buddy along for a walk while you casually chit-chat about your day. Walking is a good way to pass the time, have some fun, and get your body moving.
Take a Hike
There is so much to explore in the great outdoors, so check your city’s website for a list of hiking trails. So strap on some comfortable hiking shoes, pack a lunch and a water bottle, grab a few friends, and explore the wonders of nature!
Volunteer
Putting your efforts into lending a helping hand can be a priceless feeling of accomplishment. Invite your friends or family and encourage your children to volunteer. Of course, many people don’t consider volunteering to be a fun activity, but it can be. There could be countless organizations in your neighborhood that can use your help, so make sure to check volunteer websites or inquire at a local nonprofit for opportunities. In addition to lending your services, volunteering can serve as a means to make new friends and even develop new skills.
Host a Yard Sale
You may be surprised to see how many things you have lying around at your house that you have hardly ever used or just don’t use anymore. Setting up a yard sale won’t cost you anything at all – in fact, you are likely to make money. So get your family to help you gather unwanted clothes, electronic items, furniture, and anything else you don’t need but someone else could benefit from. Set up a few tables in your front yard and invite your friends and neighbors to shop. A yard sale serves multiple purposes: decluttering the house in an environmentally friendly way, getting your family involved in a fun activity, and making some money. So consider it a win-win!
Final Thoughts
Having fun with your friends and family doesn’t have to mean spending lavishly. It can also mean snuggling in sleeping bags under the night sky, watching movies or playing card games until midnight, and connecting over a simple picnic. Sometimes, these things can become far more valuable and memorable than anything you could pay for. So don’t stress about entertaining yourself and your family when trying to cut costs and save money when you have so many free options!
