How to have a cheap, fun weekend with your family

For a family to go to the movies can be so expensive. Here are some ideas how to have fun and save money.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. The public library is often overlooked. Did you know that you can not only check out books, but videos and CDs and audio tapes. Many have book reading times for children and they are free. Usually the library has a calendar of events that you can pick up when you are there.
2. Book stores also have book reading times for children and also author readings and signings, book discussion groups and music. Give your children $5.00 each or have them bring their allowance so they can purchase a book.
3. Theater groups and children's theater groups have quality shows for low ticket prices. College theater can be a wonderful outing for the whole family, especially when they are held on campus during the summer in an outdoor pavilion. Try searching for children's performing arts in your town.
4. Also, college art departments feature all kinds of performances from symphony orchestras and jazz ensembles to ballet and art festivals. Check your nearest college website to see when they are coming up. Try searching performing arts in your town.
5. Your local community symphonies have wonderful amateur and professional guest soloists and sometimes perform in a nearby park. Bring a homemade picnic lunch and enjoy.
6. Museums offer a day a month where the admission is free.
7. Your town's local chamber of commerce hosts carnivals and festivals several times a year. Check on their website to find out when they will be.
8. Film students and film makers occasionally have showings of their films. Check the film commission website in your town to find out when and where.
9. The YMCA often gets over looked and if you haven't been for while you ought to check it out. They offer family activities, such as weight training, swimming and more and if you have a very small child that is too young for these activities they offer affordable child care. This is a great way for you to be able to spend one on one time with your older child.

Tips & Warnings

• Most of the information on when the performances or activities are scheduled can be found on an organization's website.
• Have a calendar ready when you are going to the websites so that you can put it directly on your calendar when the event will be. You can fill several months of free to inexpensive activities for your family in a couple of hours on the computer.