How to Have a Fun Family Weekend on a Tight Budget

Times are tough right now and many of us are living pay check to pay check. Just because money is tight does not mean you can't have a fun weekend. Here's some ideas of some fun things you can do as a family without spending alot of money. What's even better is you will have made some great memories that last a lifetime.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Slurp!

   Take out those board or card games, give them a good dusting and actually play them with your kids. Let yourself be a kid again. You just might be amazed at how fun it is. When you're done playing games, go out for an ice-cream together.

2. 
    
   Walking Trail

   Does your city have walking or bike trails? Go to your city website and find out. Some might even be near a park. Pack a picnic. Go bike riding, roller blading or just walking in the trails then have your picnic in the park. Make a day of it.

3. If the weather's nice get the family together and wash the car. Be prepared to get wet. Don't be afraid to have a water fight...the kids will love it and you just might too.

4. 
    
   Pow Wow

   Take full advantage of what your city has to offer. Check your city and surrounding city websites for weekend events. You will be surprised at how many events the city puts on that are free. Eat a good meal before you go so you won't be tempted to eat a meal there. Try to have enough money to get everyone a snack. That way you won't feel deprived. Take bottled water and save money buying sodas.
   
   This is my families favorite. We have been to many weekend festivals and outdoor concerts. We hardly spent any money, but had loads of fun and made some great memories!

5. 
    
   Strolling Down Main Street

   Does your city or a city nearby have a quaint main street? If so, take a stroll down main street at dusk. Maybe theres an ice-cream or candy store that you could stop in and get a treat. Window shopping can be fun.

6. See if your city or surrounding cities have museums. Many times they are free to get in, or they will have discounts on certain days. Go to their website to find out.

7. 
    
   Bein' silly at the Farmer's Market

   Go to the Farmer's Market. If you will be buying produce at the grocery store anyway...why not go to the farmer's market instead. My kids love doing this.

8. 
    
   Ain't we a cute couple? haw haw!

   Check into orchards or farms in your area. Some of them open to the public on weekends and don't charge much to get in. They will have cool things to do while you are there like corn mazes, hay rides etc. There are usually some great photo opportunities too. Take a picnic lunch or plenty of healthy snacks and bottled water.

9. Don't forget to bring a camera everywhere you go. You are not only having fun, but you are making memories too. It's always great to have pictures to remember the places you've been.
   
   Have a fun family weekend!