Josh Elledge - Chief Executive Angel
After the holidays, there is always kind of a let down from the whirlwind of activities. Boredom seems to set in quickly, especially for children. And after all that holiday spending, the budget for going and doing might be a bit slim. But take heart ““ there is affordable family fun to be had, even during the cold months.
(1) Watch the deal sites: Sites like Groupon and Living Social are full of steals on activities during winter. Establishments offer good discounts to entice people to brave the cold and visit.
(2) Volunteer: Organizations who rely heavily on volunteer help are especially grateful when people show up to help during the colder months. Walk dogs or play with kittens at the local animal shelter, help serve a meal at the local mission, help the PTA coordinator with the latest project”¦ there are endless opportunities ““ and always one that fits your family's interests.
(3) Family game or movie night: If you don't already do this, or if your family night has gotten stale”¦ try adding a new dynamic. Some suggestions: A game champion trophy that only changes hands if the champion is defeated; Themed movie nights that match the movie; Only eat foods that are one specific color, such as green; Hiding a specific item from week to week, with the finder getting to make a decision such as picking the movie, or the first game played.
(4) Family-made meal night: In this, the meal is divided up, with each family member responsible for one part. One person makes some kind of appetizer, one person the main dish, someone else a side dish or bread, someone else a dessert. Then you put it all together. Small children can do things like making simple appetizers, or setting out the glasses and beverages. The goal is to do as much of your part as you can without help.
(5) Check the local community calendar: You might be surprised at how many local events are taking place all around you, and are free or very low cost. Community groups that go to the time and expense of putting together an event are hoping families will show up. So use your city's webpage, news outlets, and even Facebook pages to find out about events. Get on email lists or into online groups that will let you know when things are going on. You can find things like gallery openings, new museum exhibits, community fund-raiser auctions, historical landmark preservation outreaches, pet days, children's theater, heritage days, and more.
(6) Go to a zoo or aquarium: Not all zoos close during the winter months ““ and most aquariums are open year-round. Watch for discounts, family days, and special events to bring the cost down.
(7) Visit your local library: Check their event calendar for special days and events, especially for small children.
(8) Go to the home improvement store: Lowe's and Home Depot both host Kids' Days. They give away small projects, like bird houses, for free. They even have the hand tools there to make the projects in-store. Extend the fun by purchasing a sample size can of paint to personalize your project at home.
(9) Try ice skating: Public skating parks (rinks) usually offers admission that is very family friendly. Don't have skates? Some even lend them for free.
(10) See a basketball or hockey game: Lower league teams, like city teams, usually have special rates and giveaway days. Or, check the local high school schedule and cheer on your favorite school.
(11) Catch a flick on the cheap: Celebration Cinemas have locations that participate in Sunday night cheap movies, Early Matinee discounts for showings before 1 p.m., and special engagement offers. Goodrich Quality Theatres offer an easy and free movie-goer card that yields free concession items and can save you up to 40% on their already low admission.
(12) Take in a museum: Some museums can add up for a whole family, but in many cities there are ones that are free, or donation-only. You can also check for free days from larger museums by visiting their website.
(13) Camp indoors: Complete with setting up a tent (if you can), using your sleeping bags, and making s'mores (either in a fireplace or over the stove). Make it as close to really camping as you can. Tell stories, sing songs, and pretend you're outside on a warm summer's night.
