You can have fun, even on a budget

A budget is often broken because of one category: entertainment.

Our budget for entertainment expenses is often the hardest to reduce: Who doesn't want to have fun with friends and family?

But you can have fun AND stick to your budget with just a bit of planning. Just a little time doing some quick internet searches or perusing the coming events section of your local newspaper can help you find lots of activities that are free or inexpensive:

• Free or reduced admission days at local attractions like zoos, museums and aquariums can help your family to experience a fun and educational day with little expense
• Cities, towns and suburbs often have free concerts, petting zoos, balloon artists, and other fun activities as part of their annual summer festivals or fairs

And if you don’t feel inclined to do the googling yourself ahead of time, you can subscribe to e-newsletters produced by local publications, arts councils, municipalities or state tourism boards. Then you’ll receive alerts about upcoming events, so when you’re looking for a way for your family to spend a free Saturday, you’ll have options at your fingertips.