Who says that fun, family activities have to be expensive? Put on your frugal glasses and let’s take a look at some fun ideas that your family might like to try.

1.  CHECK OUT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY

Here are a few of the fun things my local library currently offers: Movie Nights, Lego Club for Kids, Foreign Language classes, Computer Classes, Game Nights, Book Clubs, Crafts, Story time for toddlers and preschoolers, and a reading program in the summer time where kids can earn prizes for their reading accomplishments. And did I mention that all of these things are FREE?

So if you haven’t checked out your local library yet, I would highly recommend you head on down there and check things out. Or if you’re limited on time, Google your local library and see what kind of fun is in store for you and your family. You’ll be glad you did!

2. BOWLING, ANYONE?

Call your local bowling alley and ask if they have any special discounts. Our local bowling alley offers $1 bowling, and $1 shoes on specific days during the week. Make it a family affair and have some fun!

3. CHECK OUT YOUR LOCAL CHILDREN`S MUSEUM

If you have a children’s museum in your area, call and ask if they have any discounted times for kids to come in. For example, the children’s museum in my area offers FREE admission the first Friday of every month from 5 to 8pm. Considering the admission price is usually $4+ per person, this is a significant savings for a family of any size!

4. HOST A MOVIE NIGHT!

Invite your family and friends over for a movie marathon. Pick up a couple of Redbox movies ($1 each), add some popcorn and other yummy snacks, and wa~laa! Cheap entertainment and lots of fun.

5. PLUG INTO YOUR LOCAL CHURCH

Find out what kind of fun events are on your church’s calendar. My local church has a wonderful Children`s Ministry Director, and they just recently hosted an All Night Party for local middle schoolers. They also have monthly Movie Nights, a Back to School Carnival, a Pumpkin Patch, and other fun events throughout the year. Most of the events are FREE and everyone is invited!

6. GO TAKE A HIKE!

Google some hiking trails in your local area, pack a snack, and enjoy some family time outside. This can be a fun, family activity during any time of the year. Encourage your kids to observe the wildlife in their natural habitats. And don’t forget your camera!

7. ARE YOU CRAFTY?

Check out your local Michael’s store and you will find they have a wonderful variety of FREE events for the kiddo’s each month. Go to Michael’s and check out their calendar of events. Michael’s also offers a number of classes (for a fee) including cake decorating, jewelry making, art, crocheting, knitting, scrapbooking, and more.

8. INTRODUCE YOUR KIDS TO WOODWORKING! 

Go here and you will find the FREE Build and Grow clinics offered at the Lowe’s in your area on Saturday mornings. Your kids will make a wooden project from start to finish. They will also receive a free apron, goggles, a project themed patch, and a certification of merit upon completion of their project. Sign up your kids online to attend the class, and be ready to have some fun!