Cheap Summer Fun

Are summer prices getting you down? Don't despair. There are plenty of cheap things to do during these hot days.

1. Join a DVD Club

   Companies such as Blockbuster have great club programs where you can rent an older movie for free while renting a new one. Also for every four you rent , you get a pick of a fifth free one. This is a great way of catching up on the ones you missed or old favorites.

2. Outdoor Movie Nights

   Almost every town has their own version of a ”drive in” Sometimes there's a small fee of maybe a dollar admission. Bring a blanket, mosquito repellent and a cooler of snacks and drinks.

3. Have One Day a Week as Sprinkler Day

   This is great for those without a pool Have the neighborhood kids over for some good old fashioned fun. It's safer than a pool and twice as much fun. Plus you don't have to drive to a beach. Set up your own.

4. Visit the Dollar Store

   This is a great place for pinwheels, and soakers. It's also a penny saver for snacks such a s popcorn, candy and pretzels. Another good thing about dollar stores is that you can buy some neat stuff like hair accessories, bath products and nail products. Dollar stores are also great for providing a back yard barbecue with plates utensils and even plates and placemats.

5. Read

   Every town has a library . Get acquainted or reacquainted with yours. There are some great classics out there like Mark Twain's Huckleberry Finn or George Eliot's Middlemarch. Want lighter fare. Go to your second hand bookstore and pick up secondhand mysteries and romances Also check into Borders and Barnes and Noble Book Clubs. This is where you receive all sorts o f neat coupons for books and magazines.

6. Nature Walk

   Instead of heading to someplace exotic, try the woods or parks near your home. There are bound to be unusual plants or even species that will catch your eye. Plus it's a good way if exercising and getting fresh air.

7. Make Your Own Ice

   Even this summer staple is expensive to buy. However you can beat the heat and the cost by making your own. You can make heart healthy juice pops or some fun combos like cream soda and milk or chocolate milk ice. Take Advantage of Sidewalk Sales
   Every town and store has there to clear out the summer line. This is a great time to buy another bathing suit or pair of shorts The prices are usually drastically reduced so you'll be getting good quality at a good price.

8. Have Backyard Barbecues with the Neighbors

   This is cheaper than having one big block party (which requires a license from your town) Let everyone bring one dish so the cost doesn't fall entirely on you. It's a great way of catching up on gossip as well as just kicking back and enjoying good company.

9. Eat at Fast Food Restaurants

   You don't have to go wild for burgers and fries, A lot of places have healthy salads and sandwiches at low prices. It beats eating at a larger chain restaurant that will cost you at least fifteen bucks for just grilled meat with a side. Look into every places dollar menus for even tasty snacks.

This summer don't despair over the high price of everything. There are plenty of cheap things to do . Most of them are not only free but they're fun too.