You don’t need to cut out entertainment completely in order to live a frugal life. Below are some very inexpensive frugal ways to save money and still have frugal fun.

If you live in a city, just try walking around. In New York, check out impromptu concerts by street musicians or just sit in the park. You’d be amazed how much fun you can have!

Instead of eating out or going to bars with friends, host a potluck at home or just have friends over for a munchies night. It’s much cozier and costs less than everyone going out to eat.

For movies, go to matinees or the two dollar movie (a number of communities have them). You can also always rent movies.

Cut some of the cable. When times are tough, the cable needs to get going. It can get so expensive! If you do need it for the reception, get basic and then rent movies. Buying a great DVD player and renting movies is cheaper than cable in the long run. If you rent rooms in your home, keep the cable — it’s a perk for your tenants that are worth paying for.

Take your kids to the bookstore and hang out.

Find free community shows, like Shakespeare in the park or fireworks.

Take the kids on the subway trip — as far as you can and go explore. In New York, take the train to Coney Island.

In the summer, there is always a local food festival or street fair, usually several Check the local section of your newspaper.

Get your kids involved in a community group, like a theater. They develop skills, make friends and have fun.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, October 14th, 2008 at 11:07 am in Column.