Discover the frugal side of fun with these ten activities that take little or no cash.
Browse the local mega bookstore, making note of interesting titles and later either checking them out of the public library or buying them online as used books or purchasing them at a used book store. While visiting the library, don't forget to check out a video or a book for reading aloud to the family.
Hold a “ceilidh” (pronounced kay-lee): For those not familiar with this Scottish term, it's a gathering where a family or a community sings songs, plays music, and recites poetry. Everyone adds to the festivities.
Take a picnic to a local scenic viewpoint or neighborhood park. While there, walk around the jogging trail or play a quick game of tennis.
Browse yard sales, flea markets, and consignment stores. Leave your wallet at home, or before you leave the house, set a budget for the activity.
Attend open-air festivals and small town street parties. Budget for homemade goodies. During the month of September, for example, Czech, Greek, and Mexican-Americans are all hosting activities within 20 miles of my house. A jazz festival is also held Labor Day Weekend.
Visit local geological outcroppings or anthropological sites. Often these sites are free-of-charge, although sometimes visitors may need to pay a small fee.
Watch a home improvement project demonstration at the local building supply chain store.
After calling first, drop in on relatives. Take along some homemade goodies to share.
Ship the kids to the next door neighbors and plan a dinner “al fresco” complete with candles and wine, mood music, and dancing for you and your spouse. Volunteer to take care of the neighbor's kids in the near future.
Attend a poetry reading or music recital held on a local college campus. Usually, notices of these events appear in the local paper and are free and open to the general public.
