This post started with me wanting to take a glass-blowing class. I thought I’d make a pretty vase, or maybe a shimmery bowl. Ok, really I thought I’d be the next to create a venetian-glass-meets-Metro-Detroit masterpiece. At six hundred dollars a session I’m not even allowed to be in the viewing room. Really, I’m not allowed even a mere chance of the possible drive-by whilst a class is in session. I can’t even afford the protective goggles. Sheesh!! All those phrases about living life to the fullest and hakuna matata never saw the ins and outs of my checkbook. Or shall I say the infrequent ins and the roadrunner outs of said checkbook. Yes, I want to have good memories with friends and sweet dates with Mr. Wonderful but destitute dreamers we remain.
Going out is expensive! Mr. W may disagree with me because, well, he is Mr. Wonderful and doesn’t often let me pay for nights out, but still, I don’t like watching Hamiltons or Jacksons getting dropped for a fun time.
There are plenty of ways to find a variety of very affordable ways to avoid yet another night of prime-time tv.
1) Check your local city website, or those in the surrounding area. Downtowns are always advertising events for the public and often times they are FREE! The disclaimer being that it could turn out to be lame, but if you go with a “have-fun-at-it” attitude, then no harm done!
2) Another place to check out for a variety of options is your local library. You may need to vamp up the search to find a larger book repository, but libraries are constantly trying to get patrons in their doors and often their biggest promotional activities are on lots of different subjects one is sure to perk your ears up.
3) A great place for concerts, speakers, and family fun events is your church or a church nearby your house. The things happening there often times FREE or very inexpensive. There is usually childcare on site and refreshments or a full meal scheduled as well so the whole night could be taken care of for mere Lincolns (who bytheway, is our favorite Prez because of the denominations he represents). These are also great opportunities to go incognito to check out a new place of worship because the community events are open to one and all, therefore the people pour in and you can go virtually unnoticed if you so choose!!
4) Look into places that you like to frequent and see what deals they offer for regulars. Are you an avid cinema go-er? Consider making date night Wednesdays or another week night, usually they offer discounted tickets and they may toss in some free popcorn! Are you a sports fan? Many arenas advertise cheap seats in certain sections or various days a month. Get added to the email list of your number one hangout choice and you’ll be sure to catch the best deals for your fun-time budget. 
5) Instead of going out to dinner and an activity, consider doing the activity and appetizers, grab a coffee, or split dessert.
6) If you love the arts but can’t afford tickets to the Chicago Symphony fret not. Consider attending concerts, plays or art exhibits done at your local college or even high school. Yes, perhaps the music isn’t quite Bruckner’s Ninth Symphony, but not only are you supporting your local institutions but you can sharpen your listening ears and play critic (as long as it’s all in good fun!!).
Hopefully the tips and tricks above will help alleviate the stressors of nights on the town. Enjoy the freedom to still partake in your hobbies and passions without the destruction on your wallet.
