Summer presents an ideal opportunity to enjoy quality time with kids and family, but it can also bring about costly outings. Fortunately, there are numerous budget-friendly ways to have fun during the summer, including free events, workshops, and activities.
Smart parents can make significant savings this summer by planning ahead. Consider engaging in various activities and following tips to cut costs without compromising on enjoyment.
Libraries are a goldmine of free activities. Far from just housing old books, modern libraries offer computer access, printing services, and host a variety of workshops and events suitable for different age groups. They also provide options to borrow DVDs, computer games, and board games.
If visiting a physical library is inconvenient, you can register for a free library card online to access free ebooks and audiobooks. Additionally, consider utilizing free trials of Kindle Unlimited, Readly, and BookBeat to give your kids access to a wide range of reading materials this summer.
Families with children eligible for free school meals during term-time can take advantage of the Holiday Activities and Food Programme to receive free childcare, meals, and activities during the holidays. Eligibility criteria may differ by location, so be sure to check your local authority website for specific details.
Transportation costs for family activities can add up quickly. If you haven’t already, consider obtaining a Family and Friends Railcard for significant savings on regular rail travel throughout the year. Alternatively, National Express is currently offering free travel for up to three under-15s per paying adult if you book online using the code KIDSFREE before September 30th.
During the holidays, feeding a family can become more expensive. Look out for special offers at restaurant and café chains to help reduce your food expenses. Many establishments, such as Bill’s Restaurants, TGI Fridays, IKEA, Morrisons, Asda cafes, and Brewers Fayre venues, offer deals that can help keep family dining costs within budget.
For entertainment, take advantage of summer deals for theme park entry. Lidl customers can claim a free thirty-day Day Out With The Kids pass through the Lidl Plus app to enjoy discounts of up to 45% at various theme parks. Additionally, check out National Rail’s Days Out Guide for up to 33% off at Merlin attractions by booking a voucher through the website.
Organize a Garden Cinema Night for a unique family experience. Set up a makeshift outdoor cinema with a projector, white bedsheet, and favorite snacks for a cozy movie night under the stars. Consider incorporating a drinks station and let everyone choose their preferred movie snacks for added enjoyment.
Engage in classic summer activities like a competitive game of rounders in the park. Gather friends and family for a fun tournament filled with picnics and outdoor games. For fitness enthusiasts, join free community activities like Joy Runs or Park Runs to stay active and have fun with your kids.
Attend sporting events like The Hundred for a blend of cricket action and live music entertainment. Tickets are reasonably priced, making it a great family-friendly outing. Take advantage of affordable cinema deals, such as £1 family-friendly screenings at Cineworld, to enjoy movies on a budget this summer.
Remember to consider cost-saving strategies when planning summer activities to make the most of your time with family. Additionally, keep grocery expenses in check by shopping at the most affordable supermarket in your area and utilizing loyalty card benefits.
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