5 Free and Low-Cost Ways To Entertain Your Family

Having Fun Doesn't Have to Break Your Budget

A night out on the town is fun and entertaining. Dinner, a round of golf or maybe a movie can make it a night to remember, but it can wreak havoc on the pocketbook. So why not look for cheaper alternatives? Ready to cure that cabin fever? Get out and spend quality time with the family. Here are a few options.

Engage In Indoor and Outdoor Games

It may sound old-fashioned or even a little cliché, but a good old family game night can be a cheap way to earn quality bonding time. With so many games lining store shelves, there’s something for every age group and skill level.

For competitive family fun, try a new game choice like “5 Second Rule: Just Spit it Out.” In this game, players have 5 seconds to answer the question on their card. The result is a scatter-brained cluster of answers. Can you name 3 popular dog breeds in 5 seconds or less? It’s a fast-paced game for ages 10 and up. For even more savings, see if the local public library lends out board games.

Outdoor games are always in style. Classics like croquet, badminton and even bocce ball allow you to remain competitive while you entertain family and guests who stop by. Games are a cheap way to keep everyone busy.

A Night In at the Movies

Staying in may not help with cabin fever, but to keep things affordable, a good movie can help pass the time. One option is to look into movie streaming services. New companies are popping up left and right, making them very competitive and eager for new business.

You may be intrigued by the free or low-cost introductory offers where you can watch unlimited movies for one low price. Hulu, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are just a few services that offer movies as well as original shows and series.

Attend Local Sporting Events

A good NHL hockey or pro football game can be thrilling, and going to a game once in a while is a real treat. However, cheaper events are not out of reach. See what’s happening nearby. Whether it’s through the local high school or a weeknight game at a nearby college field, you can enjoy the game, the food and all the feels at a fraction of the cost of a big-league event.

Arts and Crafts Festivals

Many arts and crafts festivals are held at certain times of the year like clockwork. Keep your eye out for all sorts of festivals including everything from antique fairs to craft beer tasting events and everything in between. Many offer free or low-cost admission and lots of yummy offerings from local restaurants and food trucks. Fairs are an inexpensive way to spend a day or even a weekend.

Check Out a Local Botanical Garden

Something that’s open almost all year round, depending on where you live, is the local botanical gardens. A prime time to visit one is during the blooming seasons during the spring and summer months. In addition, there are often events and activities happening year-round that draw plant lovers and families alike. These include holiday light displays, horticultural curating expositions and guided hikes. The best part is, it’s engaging entertainment that’s affordable and often educational.

Finding cheap entertainment can be as simple as staying in, or as exciting as going out and enjoying a festival or football game. No matter what the budget, make it stretch while still keeping everyone happy and entertained.

~Here’s to Your Financial Health

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