Family Entertainment

There are certainly ways of saving money at home when considering your family entertainment.

Basically family entertainment involves food/drink and/or venue and a combination of these.

Movies are always great fun but for a family can run into a bit of money. Remember in my first blog about budgeting, make sure you set aside money for entertainment. Having said that, try to be wise. One of the latest release movies every now and then is OK. Some people go to just about every one. Also, those of you will know with kids, it is the popcorn, chips, drinks etc. that cost an absolute fortune. First of all, make sure you take your own food with you. Exit straight away and herd children straight past popcorn stand. I know it is really mean when they make it smell so nice. If you do go to a movie and it is really stretching your budget (and you have kids) make sure they realise that this is a big deal and a special treat.


Another cheaper alternative is to wait for the DVD to come out. It doesn't seem very long anymore. Hire it, invite another family over, pool the cost of munchies and have a great night.

Going on family walks along walking trails costs nothing, keeps you fit and brings you closer as a family. Parks are another good one. Kicking/throwing a ball around, playing on the playground etc. is great fun and free. Take plenty of water to drink instead of fizzy - much better for everyone. Healthy snacks are also better and more filling than the junk we seem to take on picnics.

Dinner parties can be huge and if this is your thing congratulations. They are also expensive. Maybe cut back on the amount of food served (there's always heaps left over!) and don't try to outdo the friends you have over.

I guess really the most important thing with entertainment is to stick to your fortnightly/monthly (whatever you do) budget. That way you can have fun and there will be no need to stress when you realise that you have spent way too much money on entertaining and can't pay some of your other bills.

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