Cut your entertainment budget without sacrificing fun

Family fun doesn't have to be expensive.

This Grandma knows how to have fun on a budget. Looking to cut costs without cutting the entertainment? Tired of budget scrimping and saving with no entertainment rewards? Want to find entertainment venues that save money and provide fun for the whole family? Here are some fabulous ways to cut your entertainment budget without sacrificing the fun.

Movies

*Next time you rent a Redbox movie, share it with friends, family and neighbors. Last one to watch returns it.
*Cancel the cable. Watch Netflix and Hulu through your X-box.
*You can also share your Netflix log-in with others. Split the meager cost and save a bundle on entertainment.
*Have a gathering and watch movies together. You can socialize and save money at the same time.
*Most movie theaters allow employees unlimited free movies during off peak times. Some even allow for one or two guest passes per visit.
*Rather than watching first run movies in theaters, wait for them to come to second run theaters or DVD. It's the same movie, no matter when you watch it.

Passes, memberships etc.

*Buying a State Parks pass cuts the entertainment budget. See some of the most beautiful areas of the state without paying admission fees every time you visit. Be sure to visit enough times a year that the cost is worthwhile. Camping, swimming and hiking are just a few of the offerings of state parks.
*Entertainment venues, restaurants, book stores and more, all give out free membership cards for discounts. Cut the budget by taking advantage of these free offers.
*Restaurants often have punch cards. Buy so many meals and get the next free. Is there a better budget cut than free?

Free days

Many cities offer a certain amount of free days per year at such entertainment venues as museums. Usually these require a state ID. Take advantage of these days to cut the entertainment budget. Arrive early. These free day events are often crowded.

Off peak rates

Travel during the week, rather than on the weekend. Rates are lower and the trip will be every bit as fun. Travel to warm weather countries or states in the winter. Reduced rates for off season travel cut the entertainment budget nearly in half. If you'd rather travel in season, purchase tickets well in advance.

Tents, campers, cars and cabins

Why pay for a hotel when camping is a fraction of the cost? Why fly when driving 4 people costs the same as flying one? Road trips are a blast! Plus, you see more sights on the way to your destination. If you like roughing it, go for economical tent camping. Try a camper or cabin if you prefer a little more comfort.

Bring back board games, jigsaw puzzles and other old time entertainment.

Many of the things our parents and grandparents did for entertainment were completely free. They were also tons of fun. So, why not turn off the phones and TV's for a while? Socialize with your family members and friends. Get to know them on a more personal level by playing games together. Who knows? You might get more than a night's entertainment out of this deal.