Low-Budget Weekend: Budget-Friendly Family Activities
Getting out and about with the family during the weekend is a good way to refresh, rejuvenate, and reconnect after a busy week of work and school. Michigan State University stresses the importance of family time, citing benefits like closer relationships with the kids and a stronger family system. But getting out there can be expensive. A family movie can set you back fifty bucks or more, and a trip to the zoo is even costlier. Happily, there are plenty of budget-friendly activities around town if you know where to look.
State and University Museums
State and university museums are usually far less expensive than the local children’s museum or other private museum, and they’re often free. You can explore historical artifacts and art and science exhibits, and many of these museums feature traveling exhibitions of world-class quality.
High School Productions
High school drama and music departments put on excellent productions, the culmination of weeks of hard work by talented students and staff alike. The public is invited to these plays and concerts, and they work hard to keep costs down or make them free to ensure everyone can afford to go. High school sports are also exciting, and sporting events, too, are reasonably priced.
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The Local Park
Pack up a picnic lunch and some activities for the kids and head to the local park for some fun in the sun. Bring along a Frisbee or soccer ball and get active while you’re at it. Some parks have nature and hiking trails, and if you’re lucky enough to live near a larger park with a lake and boat rentals, you can spend the day paddling in the water for a nominal fee.
Patio Time
In the evening, relax on the patio with a cocktail or a glass of iced tea while the kids play amongst themselves in the yard. Do the New York Times crossword on your mobile device to unwind, or download the new Coloring Book for Me & Mandala on Google Play and spend some time in quiet meditation coloring gorgeous mandalas with 25 color palettes.
Community Events
Check your community calendar for free and low-cost events around town. There’s always an arts festival or free concert or cultural celebration going on, and you can find university- and government-sponsored educational activities for the kids. Check for local parades, zombie walks, park celebrations, and other community events.
Cook Out
Whether you invite another family over or keep it low-key with just the household, throwing a barbecue is a great way to spend family time together. Grill a mess of burgers and dogs, or celebrate a successful week with some steaks or seafood. Use paper plates to reduce the clean-up time, and dine al fresco on the patio for a little something different.
Spending time with your family doesn’t have to be limited when you’re on a budget. Keep an eye and ear out for things going on around town, and if nothing’s happening, hole up at home with some board games or other special family activities. The most important thing is spending quality time together.
