Family Entertainment On A Budget

Good times don’t have to cost a lot of money.  There are so many options for families to have fun that are free or inexpensive, that it doesn’t make sense to spend a fortune for entertainment when you’re looking to save money everywhere else in your life.  Books, music and movies can all be had without breaking the bank.

Remember Family Night?

When is the last time you sat together with the family and played some games?  If you’re like most people, you’ve got a closet full of board games collecting dust.  Dig them out and enjoy a night of games and friendly competition.  Family favorites include Scrabble, Pictionary, Sorry and Trivial Pursuit – but play whatever you have and like!  If you don’t have any games or are tired of the ones you do have, borrow some from a friend or neighbor or better yet – invite friends over for a bigger game night.

If you’re lucky enough to own one or more of the various video gaming systems, don’t forget to make good use of them in family battles, too.  Often we have so many things to choose from right under our noses, we walk around wondering what to do!  Take a good look at what you’ve got and start putting those entertainment options to good use with the family.

Remember the Library?

Once people leave school, many have a tendency to forget about the library.  Libraries are more than just a place to research information for your thesis!  Libraries offer free internet access, DVDs and music you can borrow for free, and often a variety of programs on just about every topic under the sun.  Why pay to borrow movies from the video store when you can get them for free from the local library?  Not all libraries will have new releases (at least not while they’re new!) but the selection is often large enough to keep you watching for months until newer movies are added to the collection.

Public libraries are known for offering children’s programs and events, as well as community events that the entire family can participate in.  Check your library’s website or ask the librarian for a list of upcoming events and don’t be afraid to join in the fun.

Remember Community Organizations?

If you’re looking for a night on the “town”, don’t forget that many local churches, high schools and community centers put on theater and musical shows.  These shows are often offered with free admission, or for a small donation to help support the church, school or community center.  If you have the urge to act or sing, you may even be able to get involved!  Keep an eye out for fliers announcing events around town, or on your town’s website for the calendar of events.  These events are often overlooked or forgotten about, but can be a great way to spend an afternoon with the family.

Remember Your Local Venues?

Believe it or not, many museums and zoos and similar venues offer free or discounted admission days. Check with the websites of all your area attractions and keep an eye on their special events and offers.  You may be able to attend for free certain times of the year.

Remember the Park?

Don’t forget that spending an afternoon at the local park can be a ton of fun!  Pack a lunch, a frisbee or some sports equipment and enjoy the great outdoors.  If you like, you can go fishing, spend the day at a local beach or lake, or go for a hike.  These simple pleasures get forgotten or passed on in order to participate in more “exciting” entertainment – but coming back to the simple things in life can be very rewarding AND entertaining.