Budget Summer Fun Ideas
Sticking to your budget can be difficult when the weather is nice but luckily there are plenty of great cheap (and even free) summer fun ideas out there. Here are just a few:
- Go to the park. The park is always a great place to go when the weather is nice and most parks are free. If you want to head to the closest National Park you may want to check the National Park Holiday Schedule before departing.
- Go fishing or find another outdoor hobby to take part in. Many other outdoor activities are fun and fairly cheap as well. If you already have the equipment, fishing is a great and cheap way to spend the afternoon.
- Scout free events. When you are trying to find ideas for budget summer fun free events are the best. Throughout the summer there will be free concerts and other events that you can head to without breaking the bank.
- Cheap/free movie days. The summertime is also a popular time for theaters (and some parks) to host free (or cheap) movie days/nights. For instance, a local theater may offer $5 movie tickets on Tuesdays throughout the summer.
- Take a day trip. Summer is when a lot of people take vacations but if you are trying to stick to a budget a vacation may be out of the question. If you are close to the beach or the mountains (or another day-drive destination) plan a getaway for the day. It’s cheaper than a vacation but you still get to travel.
- Make stuff from scratch. Making stuff from scratch is usually cheaper than buying it already made. Throughout the summer try different recipes. It’ll be fun to try new things and you’ll save money by making everything homemade. Â
- Play with chalk! Although it sounds rather childish, chalk can be a lot of fun. Head to the nearest sidewalk, park or playground and create your own chalk masterpiece. It is a great way to have budget summer fun.
- Water balloon fight. Like the chalk, this may seem childish but a water balloon fight with some of your friends can be great. Best of all, a water balloon fight isn’t a very expensive activity.
- Potluck cookout. Plan a potluck cookout here and there throughout the summer. Have your friends bring some food (sides, etc).
- Keep an eye out for deals. Groupon and Living Social have amazing deals throughout the summer. Be sure to keep an eye out for deals on events, dining experiences and activities near you.
- Hit happy hour. Most bars have a happy hour and some have extended happy hours through the summer. If you’re planning on going out for a drink try to make it during a time where there’s a discount or stick to the specials.
- Take advantage of the things in your community. Public libraries, museums, recreation centers and other public establishments will offer free (or cheap) activities throughout the summer. You may want to turn to these places to find budget summer fun in your town.
- Make frozen treats. Instead of buying popsicles and ice cream why not make your own? You can have fun making the yummy snack, save money and still enjoy a cool treat on a summer day.
- Learn a new skill. The summer time is a great time to take classes as well. Many places will offer discounted dance lessons, cooking classes, etc. during the summer.
- Volunteer. Lastly, if you are really itching for something to do but don’t want to spend any cash, volunteer. You can not only make a difference in your community but you may also make some lasting friendships along the way (and it’s way better than sitting at home).
These are just 15 budget summer fun ideas. There are tons more so if you have a budget summer fun idea you’d like us to add to the list, let us know!Â
Photo: DoSavannah
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Amanda Blankenship is a full-time stay-at-home mom. Her family recently welcomed their second child, a baby boy, into the world. She loves writing about various topics, including politics and personal finance. In her spare time, Amanda loves to play with her kids, make food from scratch, crochet, and read.