Family nights are very important in keeping the unit together. It can be hard to find times and activities that work for everyone, but these evenings should be fun and anticipated. Family entertainment is a vital bonding experience and it doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Here are a few cheap options any family can do.
Dinner and a Movie 2.0
A common night out includes dinner and a movie. For a family of four, this simple evening can end up costing more than what seems reasonable. A family dinner out by itself will most likely cost more than $50 at a normal restaurant. The movie tickets will easily cost $40. With any popcorn or drinks at the theater, the total bill will be above $100 without any difficulty.
This night can be recreated for almost no cost, without sacrificing any of the entertainment. Instead of going to a restaurant, pack a dinner (maybe some sandwiches) and have a picnic! It will be far less expensive, probably healthier and most likely more enjoyable for your family than the alternative. It can be fun to try new parks or beaches each time you decide to picnic. Bring a Frisbee or a croquet set for some added entertainment.
Once it’s time for a movie, save your wallet by stopping by a Redbox or another DVD kiosk. Rentals are usually $1 per night. Put some popcorn in the microwave, turn the lights down, turn the volume up and it’s show time!
Game On!
Let the whole family help with dinner before a night of games. Buy a premade crust (like a Boboli), and have the kids help with the toppings. Get out plenty of options and make a family masterpiece or two. Split pizzas in half or quarters to vary the topping combinations.
After dinner, open up a board game! $20 will buy your family a new game, which you could go and pick out together or bring home as a surprise. If you already have a selection at your house, rotate who chooses the game every time you play.
Roughin’ It
Once winter comes to an end, a great way to melt away your family’s cabin fever is a small vacation. I know… even a simple weekend getaway can be cripplingly expensive. Unless, of course, you stay a night or two in the world’s oldest hotel: the great outdoors. A camping trip is easy, relaxing, inexpensive and tons of fun.
One quick Internet search will lead you to many camping options nearby. A site in a campground is often under $20, and a tent is a one-time investment that will last for years. Hopefully you already have one! Bring hot dogs and s’more makings for a feast in the wild. A big hike during the day and stories around a fire at night make for a great alternative to the usual Xbox-infused weekend.
A weekend of “roughing it” will bring your family closer and is sure to become a memorable, story-filled adventure. If you’re still not convinced, remember: One weekend of roughing it will probably cost less than the night at the movies mentioned earlier.
Entertain your family without spending a ton with these three ideas or with events of your own! Find the method of frugal family amusement that works for you and yours. Share ideas below!
