Embedded Files
"Entertainment is temporary happiness, but the real happiness is permanent entertainment."
BIRTHDAYS AND OTHER GATHERINGS:
BIRTHDAYS AND OTHER GATHERINGS:
7 Ways To Super-Size Your Kid's Birthday Party on a Small Budget
10 Bible Study Snacks to Serve a Crowd
Anniversary Party Ideas That Go Beyond Cake and Punch
Fun Retirement Party Ideas for the Office
Planning Party Platters for Pennies
43 Awesome Birthday Freebies and Discounts
Frugally Fun 50th Birthday Party Ideas
How to Throw a Birthday Party on a Budget
37 Fun and Fresh Adult Birthday Party Ideas - The Bash
10+ Inexpensive & Easy Birthday Party Ideas - Fabulessly Frugal
25 Frugal and Cheap Birthday Party Theme Ideas
19 Hilarious and Simple Party Games for Adults - The Spruce
Frugally Fun Kids' Birthday Party Games
40+ Places to Get Free Food on Your Birthday
100 Places That Will Give You Free Stuff on Your Birthday
24 Birthday Party Games That Won't Cost You a Dime
10 Great Ways to Save Money on Your Child's Birthday Party
HOLIDAYS/PARTIES/GATHERINGS IN GENERAL :
HOLIDAYS/PARTIES/GATHERINGS IN GENERAL :
How to Reduce Waste Over the Holidays
Choose Eco-Responsible Holiday Gifts
14 Free or Cheap Holiday Gift Ideas
The Most Popular Holiday Cocktail in Every U.S. State
The Most Popular Holiday Desserts in Each State, Mapped
Hosting a Festively Frugal Holiday Open House
13 Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress
8 Ways Social Media Can Reduce Holiday Spending
7 Apps To Help Early Holiday Shoppers Save Significantly
Options for Hosting a Holiday Dinner for Less
10 CHEAP OR FREE HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES
Ways To Pay Down Those Holiday Bills Quickly
Planning Party Platters for Pennies
Frugal Family Reunion Food and Fun
12 Tips for Avoiding the Holiday Debt Trap
5 Ways To Stash Some Holiday Cash
21 Healthy Holiday Snacks Everyone Will Enjoy
Hosting a Festively Frugal Holiday Open House
Holiday tipping guide : How much to tip
Sure-Fire Ways To Stick to Your Holiday Budget
4 Ways To Pay Off Holiday Debts
Inexpensive Old World Holiday Traditions
8 Frugal Family Holiday Traditions
Holiday Shopping Tips: How to Get a Head Start and Maximize Your Budget
100 Holiday Gift Ideas That Won’t Cost You a Penny
5 Non-Material Holiday Gift Ideas - Earth911
21 Free Things to Do During the Holidays
Our Holiday Budget Planner Will Help You Play Santa Without Going Broke
50 Simple Ways to Keep Holiday Spending on Budget & on Point
23 Holiday Items You Should Buy at Dollar Stores and save big!
Boycott Holiday Gift-Giving (and Other Less Extreme Ways We’d Curb Overspending) | HerMoney
What should you do when you cannot afford the holidays?
Cheap alternatives to gift exchange ideas
8 Easy Ways to Cut the Cost of Holiday Shopping | Money Talks News
70 Recipes That Use Leftover Ham
People You Should Tip for the Holidays
Inexpensive Tasty Ways To Use Up Holiday Ham
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING GOES WRONG:
As the holiday shopping season starts, be ready for any issues with online purchases, products, or services. Here’s a quick guide on how to resolve problems and where to file a consumer complaint.
First, contact the seller or customer service directly. Most issues can be resolved with the company.
If the issue isn't resolved, file a complaint with:
Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Suspect fraud? File a complaint here.
Econsumer.gov: For international purchases
QUOTES:
Controlling Holiday Expenses: My oldest sister recently shared how she controls expenses for the holidays since she buys for 12 grandkids. Each child gets a toy, pajamas, and a book. That's all. Thinking of the genius behind simplifying while controlling expenses, I'm adapting this to my immediate family. My kids are grown or almost grown, so they are a bit harder to buy for than little ones. My simplified list is something electronic, something to wear, and a online store gift card. I might do the same for my husband. Teresa in MO from Dollar Stretcher tips
Holiday Grocery Shopping: Short on money for holiday baking and cooking? Try this. Make December the time that you use up all the stuff you have in your pantry and freezer. Every meal that you make that way saves money that can be used to buy holiday ingredients. It's also a great way to clean out the pantry and freezer before things go out of date or get freezer burned. Sandy from Dollar Stretcher Tips
Holiday Chic Made Easy: After Christmas 5 or 6 years ago, I purchased black washable lined velvet pants on sale. Finding an inexpensive top to go with them each year is an easy task. Classy, shiny or even glitter have gotten me through the 3 or 4 parties and concerts my husband and I attend each year. I also decided that if this type of wardrobe does not fit the party, I likely do not need to be there! Karen
Save Now on Graduation Decorations: I have a tip for those with high school or college seniors. My son was a member of the class of 2020 and I knew I would need graduation party decorations. After New Years, I went to several stores and bought "2020" New Years items at clearance prices. I found napkins, cups, plates and banners in their school colors with "2020" on them and no reference to "Happy New Year." As you can imagine, I saved tons of money. When graduation rolled around, I bought a few items with diplomas and "Happy Graduation" on them, and I was all set! Jane from Dollar Stretcher Tips
Confessions of a Thrift Store Addict: I'm addicted to thrift stores, but I don't need any more stuff in my home. Now I only allow myself to buy things that I can use as Christmas and birthday gifts for my family. Often I can find great things for their hobbies or interests for just a few dollars. It allows me to shop without spending a lot on things I don't need. And, when the holidays come, I have most of my Christmas shopping already done! Susanna
The Holiday "Exchange" Party: Last November, I attended an "exchange" party with a large group of ladies. We all brought things that didn't fit or no longer wanted, such as books, clothing, jewelry, shoes, housewares, kids' toys, etc. We each brought a potluck dish. We ate, talked, enjoyed the company, and then "shopped." I now am the proud owner of a beautiful new bathrobe and a brand new Coach purse, plus I picked up some small holiday gifts I didn't have to buy. Everyone went home full and happy with their new things. The leftover items went to charity. AJ from Dollar Stretcher Tips
ROSH HASHANAH(sep)/HANUKKAH (Dec)
ROSH HASHANAH(sep)/HANUKKAH (Dec)
FALL
FALL
Here are some fun and festive things you can do during the fall season:
Outdoor Activities:
Go apple picking at an orchard.
Visit a pumpkin patch to pick out your favorite.
Hike or walk in a park to admire the fall foliage.
Have a picnic outdoors.
Go camping or have a bonfire in your backyard.
Go on a scenic drive to see the fall colors.
Play in a pile of leaves.
Indoor Activities:
Bake fall-themed treats like pumpkin pie or apple cider donuts.
Carve pumpkins or make jack-o-lanterns.
Decorate your home for Halloween or Thanksgiving.
Watch scary movies or read spooky stories.
Have a cozy night in with a warm drink and a good book.
Play board games or card games with family and friends.
Make homemade crafts like fall wreaths or leaf decorations.
Community Events:
Attend a local fall festival or fair.
Go to a haunted house or corn maze.
Volunteer at a local food bank or charity.
Participate in a community pumpkin carving contest.
Go to a Halloween parade or costume party.
15 Cheap Late Fall and Winter Dates
45 Free Family Activities for Fall | Happy Humble Home
33 WAYS TO USE YOUR SLOW COOKER THIS FALL
60+ Pumpkin Recipes to Delight Your Family All Fall Long (They’ll Want Seconds!)
36 Easy-to-Make Healthy Fall Recipes
45 Best Pumpkin Quotes and Puns to Give You a Good Laugh
5 Frugal Tips for Family Fun During the Fall Season
42 Easy Fall Casseroles - Best Casserole Recipes for Fall
50 Easy Fall Appetizer Recipes - Best Ideas for Autumn Appetizers
27 Fall Bread Recipes To Bake This Year
Our Best Fall Harvest Decorating Ideas for Your Home
These Understated Dried Flower Arrangements Are Perfect for Fall
5 Essential Fall Fruits That Aren't Apples
25 Apple and Cinnamon Recipes That Taste Like Fall
Free Printable Fall Scavenger Hunt for Kids
Plan a trip before the season is over and enjoy the beauty of nature around us: Looking for fun activities to do this fall? Explore national parks, historic landmarks, camping sites, and other recreational facilities.
HALLOWEEN
HALLOWEEN
Tips for a Healthier Halloween
Eat a balanced meal beforehand. Before heading out for trick-or-treating, have a balanced meal to help curb cravings and make it easier to resist overeating candy.
Stay hydrated. Sip on water before, during, and after Halloween festivities to avoid excessive snacking.
Focus on fun, not just food. Instead of centering the holiday around treats, engage in other traditions, like carving pumpkins or going on a spooky hayride.
The best places to celebrate Halloween in the US.
... and where to dine with ghosts across the country.
The most popular Halloween costumes the year you were born.
Explore the history of Halloween.
... and does Halloween candy expire?
Ranking every US state from most to least haunted.
Spooky stories from around the world you might not know.
Halloween Tricks That Treat Your Wallet Right
3 Ways To Turn Halloween Into a Giving Holiday
10 Unique Halloween Treats That Kids Love, But Rarely Get!
Halloween Tricks that Treat your Wallet Right
A Good Source of Last-minute Halloween Games
Classic Halloween Movies That Won't Keep You Up at Night
Our Favorite Family Halloween Movies Of All Time
25 Tips to Save Money on Halloween Decorations This Year
18 Easy Halloween Treats Kids Can Help Make
35 DIY Indoor Halloween Decoration Ideas That Are Cheap & Easy
25 Tips to Save Money on Halloween Decorations This Year
35 DIY Outdoor Halloween Decoration Ideas That Are Cheap & Easy
60+ Last-Minute Halloween Costumes You Still Have Time to Make
Cute Costume Alert! 98 DIY Halloween Dress-Up Ideas for Kids of All Ages
Things to Do on Halloween If You're Not Trick-or-Treating
32 Best Pumpkin Faces Ideas — Carved and Painted Pumpkin Faces
40 Best Superhero Costumes - DIY Superhero Halloween Costume Ideas
32 SPOOKTASTIC HALLOWEEN APPETIZERS
60+ Dog Halloween Costumes (This $10 Mask and Bandana Set Is the Easiest Costume Ever!)
17 Tips to Save Money on Cheap Halloween Candy for Trick-or-Treating
60 Best Last Minute Halloween Costumes You Can Throw Together Quickly
Have a Happy Halloween Without Scaring Your Budget | DaveRamsey.com
45 Easy Halloween Appetizers — Best Halloween Party Appetizer Recipes
53 Best Halloween Movies to Watch All October Long
39 Best Superhero Costumes You Can DIY or Buy in a Flash for Halloween
25 Best Dog and Owner Costumes for a More Pup-Friendly Halloween
65 Easy Halloween Costumes for Women
23 DIY Book Character Costumes for Halloween
26 Best Tween Halloween Costumes You Can Make Together
45 DIY Teen Halloween Costumes to Rock This Fall
28 Ways to Save on Cheap Halloween Costumes for Kids & Adults
QUOTES:
A Spooktacular Halloween Make-Up Trick: Try this if you want that green skin color for your Halloween costume. Add a couple of drops of green food coloring to a light shade of base make-up and mix them together. Apply it to any exposed skin. You'll make a realistic witch, vampire, or alien! Aimee from Dollar Stretcher Tips
A Cheap Gift Idea for Young Children: If you have a young child or grandchild who likes to play make-believe, shop the after-Halloween clearance sales for marked-down costumes and put them away for Christmas gifts. My son had a whole collection of costumes that he could play in for the next few years that we got on clearance. Whether you have a young princess, superhero or firefighter, you can get some really great deals to expand their dress-up collection. Andrea, Editor of Dollar Stretcher Tips
THANKSGIVING
THANKSGIVING
Here are some fun and festive things you can do for Thanksgiving:
Food and Drink:
Cook or bake traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie.
Have a potluck dinner with family and friends.
Enjoy a Thanksgiving meal at a restaurant.
Make festive cocktails or mocktails.
Activities:
Watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV.
Play board games or card games with family and friends.
Go for a walk or hike to enjoy the fall foliage.
Volunteer at a local food bank or shelter.
Watch football games.
Traditions:
Give thanks for your blessings.
Share stories and memories with loved ones.
Play Thanksgiving-themed games like charades or trivia.
Decorate your home for the holiday.
Mapped: America’s favorite Thanksgiving pie
Planning a Fabulous Family Reunion on a Shoestring Budget
Let's Talk Turkey: Choosing the Best Bird for Your Holiday Budget
Clark: Try Hard To Avoid Flying on These Days for Thanksgiving and Christmas
10 Ways to Use Thanksgiving Leftovers Under 420 Calories
Being Thankful for Having Less
Tips for Keeping Leftovers Delicious and Safe
How Long Leftovers Are Good For | Keep Leftovers
Easy Thanksgiving Breakfast Recipes
13 Easy Leftover Turkey Recipes
60 Thanksgiving Table Settings - Thanksgiving Tablescapes & Decoration Ideas
41 Funny Thanksgiving Quotes to Keep the Family Laughing
Free printable resources for Thanksgiving.
15 Unique Thanksgiving Tradition Ideas Your Family Will Adore
33 Fun Thanksgiving Activities, Games & Craft Ideas for the Kids
18 Thanksgiving Movies To Watch This Fall
7 Fun Things to Do on Black Friday Instead of Shopping
QUOTES:
Thanksgiving Leftover Plan: With Thanksgiving around the corner, I thought I would share what we do with leftovers. When we have potatoes, turkey, stuffing and veggies left over, we simply buy piecrusts. Unfold one sheet. Using only half of the full circle of dough, put your combination of turkey and leftovers in the middle and along the sides. Take the other empty half and fold over. Pinch the edges and you have a crescent shaped turkey pot pie. We simply freeze them on cookie sheets, and when frozen, we place them in a resealable bag. We can have Thanksgiving throughout the year simply by opening a can of gravy and baking our little pot pie. Makes short work of any leftovers and it's marvelous! Betty in NJ from Dollar Stretcher Tips
Thanksgiving Pie: A Tasty Way To Use Up Thanksgiving Leftovers: What do you do with Thanksgiving leftovers? After a day or two, everyone in my household is tired of turkey. I buy a couple of pre-made pie shells before Thanksgiving. After dinner, I cut up some turkey, string beans, and anything else that would go into a turkey pot pie. I add a can of cream of mushroom soup and use the second pie shell for the top. Here's the key. I put it in the freezer! When I'm busy with Christmas stuff in a couple of weeks, I can pull out a pot pie and heat it in the oven. Instant dinner! Bella from Dollar Stretcher Tips
CHRISTMAS
CHRISTMAS
Here are some tips that can help you prepare for the upcoming shopping season, and avoid overspending:
Set a budget, either for total Christmas shopping or for each month, and stick to it
Avoid impulsive purchases. With products already launched in August, there will be plenty of time to give also a second look to a product before buying. If you’re not sure about a purchase, it’s best to keep looking
Do your research. Check different shops and websites to find the best deals and similar products before you buy
If you’re searching through sales or discount bins, check the year on the product. Some decorations, especially for New Year’s, might still say “2022”. With some clever craftsmanship, buying last year’s decorations or products could be a good way to save money.
Consider buying secondhand or pre-loved items as gifts. Consumers find these gifts to be meaningful and the market is expanding. Handmade gifts are also appreciated by loved ones.
Enjoy! Remember that shopping, if associated with buying presents for others, usually brings consumers joy and happiness.
1) RECIPES
1) RECIPES
Get Ahead of the Holidays: Freezing Cookies and Cookie Dough
The best recipes for Christmas on Pinterest
Christmas Recipes - Holiday Recipes | Taste of Home
Christmas Recipes : Food Network | Food Network
Christmas Recipes from allrecipes.com
NYT Cooking - Christmas Recipes
2) SAVE MONEY
2) SAVE MONEY
A list of tips and ways to save that can help you plan a fun and fulfilling holiday that doesn’t break the bank!
7 Apps To Help Early Holiday Shoppers Save Significantly
Why You’re Still Paying for Last Christmas (and What To Do About It)
A Merry Christmas Without Cash
What We Can Learn From Scrooge's Christmas List
25 Tips to Save Money This Christmas
Is It Beginning to Look Like a Cash-Strapped Christmas
3-6-9 Debt-Free Christmas Savings Plan with FREE Printable: How To Bank $900 Extra For Christmas
15 Ways to Save Money for Christmas
BOOK: Hundred Dollar Holiday (the case for a more joyful Christmas) www.amazon.com/Hundred-Dollar-Holiday-Joyful-Christmas/dp/068485595X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=X3C827EJO0LC&keywords=hundred+dollar+holiday&qid=1705339894&s=books&sprefix=hundred+dollar+holiday%2Cstripbooks%2C114&sr=1-1
3) FLYING/OR NOT
3) FLYING/OR NOT
Clark: Try Hard To Avoid Flying on These Days for Thanksgiving and Christmas
A Merry Christmas From a Distance
4) GIFTS/GIVING
4) GIFTS/GIVING
’Tis the season of taking for scammers
A New Dog for Christmas? Carefully Consider the Costs
What to know about holiday gift returns
14 Free or Cheap Holiday Gift Ideas
15 DIY Christmas Gifts for Every Budget
Free or Cheap Ways To Repurpose Old Greeting Cards
The Cheapest Places To Print Photos Online
Secret Santa: How to Give Like No One Else
Christmas Gifts for Kids: How Much Is Too Much?
When Santa Can't Afford Your Child's Wish List (Frugal Tips & Ideas)
Helping the Less Fortunate at Christmas.
A Guide To Giving Free Christmas Gifts | ChooseFI
75 DIY Christmas Ornaments - Best Homemade Christmas Tree Ornament
85 DIY Christmas Gifts That'll Mean so Much to Your Friends and Family
QUOTES:
A Year of Gifts: One year, after a year of terrible financial hardship, I couldn't afford to spend very much on Christmas for my two daughters. I overcame the problem by printing out the following year's calendar, and in the middle of each month, I printed a gift voucher. One month, it was for a clothing item. Another month, it was a trip to the movies (their choice of which movie). One month was for a new book. I repeated some vouchers for subsequent months but came up with 12 gift vouchers. The kids received a dozen presents, and we could spread the cost over a full year. It turned out to be an inexpensive Christmas that both my daughters enjoyed. Vic from Dollar Stretcher Tips
5) DECORATIONS/ORNAMENTS/CRAFTS
5) DECORATIONS/ORNAMENTS/CRAFTS
Free or Cheap Ways To Repurpose Old Greeting Cards
How To Run Outside Extension Cords Safely and Inexpensively
How To Avoid Overloaded Electric This Christmas
Get Your Money's Worth When Buying a Christmas Tree
Faux or Real Fir? Keeping Christmas Tree Costs in Check
6 Tips to Save on Buying a Christmas Tree
12 DIY Christmas Mailbox Decor Ideas - Add a Swag and Bow to Your Mailbox
100+ Best-Ever Christmas Decorating Ideas
How to Make a Wreath in Any Style
6) ACTIVITIES/TRADITIONS
6) ACTIVITIES/TRADITIONS
93 Fun Things to Do on Christmas Day
The Most Popular Christmas Cookies in All 50 States
Here are 5 things to avoid this year
10 Cheap or Free Fun Activities
A Merry Christmas Without Cash
10 Truly Free Christmas Activities
8 Frugal Family Holiday Traditions
Inexpensive Old World Holiday Traditions
Merry Christmas! 10 Original Santa Jokes for You
34 Funny Christmas Movies to Keep You Laughing All the Way!
40 Best Family Christmas Games - Activities & Games for Holiday Groups of Kids & Adults
How to Avoid a Transactional Christmas - Handful of Thoughts
60 Best Christmas Movies For Kids - Family Christmas Films for the Holidays
12 days of Christmas family activities
QUOTES:
Even Santa Should Have a Budget: Instead of telling your children the real expensive gifts come from Santa, tell them they come from Mom and Dad. Many children will not get the most expensive or the hottest new toy and they shouldn't feel less loved by the Jolly Old Elf or that they weren't good enough. Let "Santa" give your child something really special, especially for them, but something simple, a stuffed animal with a big bow, a book, an item that looks like it could come from Santa's workshop. Better yet a letter from the big man himself telling them how proud he is and how he understands things have been difficult and point out one or two things you were especially proud of. This is something you can save for when they are adults. A heartfelt letter is always appropriate and will bring back great memories when your children have children. My dad did this a year before he passed away for my youngest sister, who was 6 at the time, and it is something she still cherishes to this day. He wrote it and mom embellished it with colorful curly ques and glitter, rolled it up, and put it in a cardboard tube she decoupaged with a bow. I wish he had thought to do one for each girl even though I was 21 at the time. Sandy from Dollar Stretcher Tips
Goodwill, Good Holiday Deals: Goodwill Industries, and similar thrift stores, have for years been the go-to place for frugal Halloween costumes and decor. But did you know they also have "pre-owned" and "pre-loved" winter holiday items?
XMAS TREES: This year, we're told Christmas trees will be in short supply. If you don't have an artificial tree in your attic, go thrifting for one. Artificial Christmas trees are sold by the dozens at our local Goodwill stores. Sometimes the built-in lights no longer work, but that problem is easily solved with a string of lights of your own. They also sell regular artificial trees. Don't have any tree lights? The store probably has clear and multicolored strings of lights along with ornaments, wreaths, tree skirts, holders for live Christmas trees and yard decorations, too. And if you really luck out, you might even find a rare but highly sought after vintage aluminum tree. If you're wanting those UGLY holiday sweaters, look no farther than your thrift stores! People (those probably lacking a sense of humor) receive them as gifts, can't stand 'em, and donate them faster than you can say "bah, humbug!". You can get the silly look for a bargain price! (My Jewish roommate even found an ugly Hanukkah sweater; she laughed and said "why should Christians have all the fun?") There are tons of candles, regular and holiday. Some have never been burned. Those that have could possibly be melted to make new candles. I've found ceramic, glass and metal containers that can hold the melted wax and thus be transformed into holiday candles. Holiday dishes, placemats and tablecloths are also featured. So if the supply chain foul-up has played Grinch in your holiday preparations, thrift stores may save the day! Lynn B.
A Unique Gift Exchange: Are you already dreading the office gift exchange where someone chooses a gift and unwraps it and then the next person can either take that first gift or choose another? Sometimes tempers get ruffled if a particularly choice item gets snatched away. And it can take forever. Some offices just draw names, which is fine but can be boring. Perhaps you are facing having to buy a lot of family gifts on a very tight budget. Again, you could just draw names, but you wish it didn't seem to emphasize just how strapped you are. Try this alternative. Draw names as usual, but the gift must match the recipient's initials. For instance, Dave Bridges gets Dark Beer, Dog Biscuits, or a Detective Book. Cheryl Pruitt gets Cheese Puffs, Cherry Pie, or a Cotton Pullover. You can see how there is "wiggle room" for any budget. Is that a six-pack of beer, a case, or just one bottle? Is that cotton pullover a funny t-shirt or a hand-knit sweater? To make things even more fun, the gifts should be wrapped but have no gift tags. Each person chooses a gift to unwrap and then everyone tries to guess the intended recipient. Some gifts aren't that easy to work out. My daughter-in-law's office uses this method, and we have happily transferred it to our family holiday gatherings to great merriment. I passed the idea on to my sister in another part of the country, where she has spread it to her women's social group. Everyone enjoys this type of gift exchange. No matter the cost limitation, your creativity can come up with something "letter-perfect." Carol P. from Dollar Stretcher Tips
Making New Holiday Traditions: We decided to change our Christmas tradition. We buy gifts for the children, but instead of exchanging gifts with the adults, each family contributes money to a fund that we then donate to a local charity. We vote on the charity each year and we love knowing we are helping our community and not adding to the glut of "things" that Christmas can bring. Renee from Dollar Stretcher Tips
My Two Cents: How We Can Contribute: When one is really low on cash and having a hard time making ends meet, particularly around the holiday season, it is hard to get into the holiday spirit or giving spirit when you have nothing to give. Giving makes us all feel good. For our family, we don't have the extra cash to do much giving this year to local charities, but we have found a way to do this anyway. Others have stuff they want to give away but have no outlet to do so. We found a group that's giving bikes to kids for the holidays. Our family can fix up the bikes and get them in good shape to donate. We advertised in local media that we will take bikes, fix them up, and then donate them to others for the holidays. We have received several bikes from others who didn't have an outlet to donate them. In short, people have stuff they want to donate but have no outlet to donate. You can be the middle man from the person who wants to get rid of the stuff and the people who need it the most. You can feel good about giving and helping and everyone wins in the end. Whitney from Dollar Stretcher Tips
A Different Kind of Savings Plan: Every payday, I buy a gift card from a grocery store. I just put them away, and when the holiday grocery shopping comes around, I use the gift cards to purchase the extra goodies and baking supplies, etc., that always hit my wallet hard. It hardly seems noticeable out of my grocery budget throughout the year, and I don't feel guilty if I want to buy extra eggnog, chocolates, etc! They have also come in handy a few times throughout the year when I needed to fund a birthday party. It's a good feeling knowing that I always have them for backup during lean paydays if need be. Teresa from Dollar Stretcher Tips
Reduce the Toy Clutter This Christmas: Every year at this time, I try to get my kids to purge some of their toys to make room for what Santa and grandparents will bless us with. After watching Rudolph, I told my kids to go to their rooms and find any "misfit" toys. I got a huge gift bag (dollar store) and we placed all the toys into the bag. On Christmas Eve, we leave a note for Santa with his cookies, asking him to take these misfit toys to children who will love them as much as we had. The next morning there is a Thank You from Santa for the kids and an empty gift bag. Sometimes during the night, the items are put in a trash bag or box to be taken to Goodwill or Salvation Army. Kim from Dollar Strecher Tips
After-Christmas Sales Savings: Here is something to think about with the after holiday sales. As a teacher, I buy everything that's red — and save it for Valentine's Day. Even candy canes, when put together, make hearts! The green? Why, St.Patrick's Day of course. Staci
NEW YEAR'S
NEW YEAR'S
Ways To Pay Down Those Holiday Bills Quickly
9 Reasons Your Financial Resolutions Are Failing
Frugal Ways To Ring In the New Year
30 Fun New Year's Eve Party Ideas for Food, Games & Decorations
4 Ways To Pay Off Holiday Debts
10 Kid-Friendly New Year's Eve Ideas - Saving Dollars and Sense
20 Best New Year's Eve Party Ideas in 2022- Fun New Year's Eve Party Themes
8 Money Challenges For The New Year!
QUOTES:
My New Year's Financial Fast: I don't do New Year's resolutions, but I begin a financial fast each year on January 1st. Except for things I absolutely cannot control (like utilities, gas for my car so I can work, perishable groceries), I refuse to spend money for as long as I can. Usually, I can go between 15 and 20 days. I use the money I save to pay the Christmas bills that always come due in January. My family used to complain, but in the last few years, they've joined in. Liz from Dollar Stretcher Tips
WINTER :
WINTER :
Here’s a list of fun winter activities to enjoy this season, whether indoors or outdoors:
Outdoor Winter Activities
Outdoor Winter Activities
Sledding – Hit the local hills for some high-speed fun.
Ice Skating – Visit a nearby rink or frozen pond.
Snowshoeing – Explore trails blanketed with snow.
Building a Snowman – Don't forget the carrot nose!
Skiing or Snowboarding – Hit the slopes for some adventure.
Snowball Fight – Channel your inner kid with a playful snowball battle.
Winter Hiking – Enjoy the beauty of frosty landscapes.
Ice Fishing – Bundle up and try your luck on frozen lakes.
Making Snow Angels – Lie in the snow and create art with your body.
Dog Sledding – Try this unique and thrilling activity if it’s available near you.
Winter Photography – Capture the beauty of snowy landscapes.
Hot Cocoa by a Bonfire – Warm up and relax outdoors with a fire and treats.
Cross-Country Skiing – Glide through serene, snowy trails.
Winter Camping – Brave the cold for a unique overnight adventure.
Stargazing – Winter skies are often clearer; bundle up and enjoy!
Indoor Winter Activities
Indoor Winter Activities
Baking Winter Treats – Make cookies, pies, or gingerbread houses.
Crafting – Try knitting, crocheting, or making DIY holiday decorations.
Movie Marathon – Pick a cozy theme or holiday classics.
Board Games or Puzzles – Gather friends or family for some friendly competition.
Reading by the Fire – Dive into a book with a warm drink in hand.
Building a Blanket Fort – Perfect for kids or kids-at-heart.
Indoor Ice Skating Rinks – Stay warm while enjoying the activity.
DIY Hot Cocoa Bar – Experiment with toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, or peppermint sticks.
Virtual Tours – Explore museums or landmarks from the warmth of your home.
At-Home Spa Day – Pamper yourself with facials and warm baths.
Cooking Winter Comfort Foods – Experiment with soups, stews, and casseroles.
Learning a New Hobby – Winter is a great time to pick up something new.
Yoga or Meditation – Focus on mindfulness and relaxation.
Family-Friendly Winter Fun
Family-Friendly Winter Fun
Holiday Light Displays – Visit neighborhoods or parks with festive decorations.
Winter Festivals – Check out local events for ice sculptures and seasonal markets.
Polar Plunge – If you're feeling brave, join a charity event and take a dip in icy water.
Making Ornaments – Create keepsakes for the holidays.
Winter Scavenger Hunt – Make a list of items to find outdoors (e.g., pinecones, icicles).
Indoor Playgrounds – Let kids burn off energy in a fun indoor setting.
Plan your winter fun today!! Fun family activities for the winter break. Looking for ways to make the most of winter break? Whether you're in the mood for indoor or outdoor adventure, Recreation.gov has tons of family-friendly activities waiting for you:
🎨 Indoor fun: Explore museums, art galleries, and cultural sites—perfect for a cold winter day!
⛷️ Outdoor exploration: Hit the slopes, try snowshoeing, or enjoy scenic winter hikes at national parks.
🏛️ Historic sites and monuments: Learn about America’s history with tours around the country.
Frugal Ways To Beat the Winter Blahs
Free Technology for Teachers: Fun Activities for Snowy Days
HOW TO BUILD A BEAUTIFUL CHARCUTERIE BOARD
100 Fun Winter Activities For Your Family's Bucket List - Saving Dollars & Sense
9 Frugal Winter Activities to Keep Kids Busy During Holiday Break
VALENTINE'S DAY
VALENTINE'S DAY
A Valentine’s Weekend Away Without Overspending: Expert Money-Saving Tips
7 Common Valentine’s Day Scams To Watch Out For
Looking for love? Watch out for scammers
10 Cheap (or Free) Date Night Ideas
45 Cheap Date Ideas You'll Actually Want to Go On
21 Romantic Dinner Ideas for Two to Make for Valentine's Day
47 DIY Valentine's Gifts for Every Person in Your Life
Cheap Valentine’s Day Gifts from Dollar Stores and More
7 Romantic Valentine's Day Dinners from Chef John
25 Best Things to Do on Valentine's Day With Your Special Someone
Listen to 164R | What are the 5 Love Languages on Apple Podcasts
30 Best Things to Do on Valentine's Day - Fun Valentine's Day Date Ideas
THE BEST VALENTINE’S DATE IDEAS ON A $25-$150 BUDGET
70 Best Valentine's Day Crafts - DIY Valentine's Day Gifts to Craft
65 Best Valentine's Day Dinner Ideas - Easy, Romantic Dinner Recipes for Valentine's Day
7 Cheap Date Ideas Out On The Town (Because They Can't All Be At-Home Date Nights) ChooseFI
Free (and Almost-Free) Ways To Romance Your Mate During Tough Times
QUOTES:
Everyday "Love" Reminder: We have a great frugal idea for holidays like Valentine's Day or Mother's Day. I got tired of my husband wasting so much money on overpriced flowers that die within a few days. So one year, I asked him to please buy me a rosebush instead. So, I receive a rosebush every Valentine's and Mother's Day. After five years, we have a lovely little rose garden that keeps giving beautiful blooms. They are much cheaper than an overpriced bouquet and last forever with the proper care. Yvette from Dollar Stretcher Tips
Hubby and I are (finally!) able to start a monthly date-night again - kids are getting old enough to hang out for an hour or two and fend for themselves. I had seen these cool date night themed boxes around, but our budget is causing us to "think outside the box" a bit. I got an empty copy paper box with lid from work. Each month, $40 goes into the Date Crate, and we'll take turns using the funds to put together a date experience...I'm hoping the readers can help us with some themes that would please my better-half (imagine a younger version of Red Green). Ideas so far:
Cheesy 80's movie from Ebay plus snacks
Fancy dessert plus a list of married-folks questions to keep getting to know each other
S'mores kit and pre-selected music mix from YouTube
Cribbage board and deck of cards, plus a trip to a local coffee joint
Trip to nursery and planting something in the yard, together
Keep on Stretching those Dollars!
Andrea from Dollar Stretcher
SUPER BOWL (feb):
SUPER BOWL (feb):
The Big Game Savings Challenge! Are you watching the big game on Sunday night alongside 200 million other Americans (estimated) and need a quick, fun way to boost your savings account?
The Most Popular Super Bowl Dips in Each State According to Google
20 Recipes for the Super Bowl for Two People
Win with These Popular Recipes
50 Easy Snacks for the Super Bowl
80 Ultimate Super Bowl Recipes
20 Best Super Bowl Party Games - Fun Ideas for Football Party Games
🏈 Easy Bites & Appetizers for the Big Game 🏈
44 Football Food Recipes Made for Game Day
Our Best Tailgating Recipes to Enjoy on Game Day
24 Game-Day Appetizers for Your Watch Party
The Best Snacks to Serve on Game Day
Make-Ahead Game-Day Recipes for Serious Fans
ST PATRICK'S DAY (mar):
ST PATRICK'S DAY (mar):
The Sweetest St. Patrick's Day Desserts
Make Irish Soda Bread in Under an Hour
Amazon Has So Many Affordable St. Patrick's Day Decorations
How to Cook Corned Beef Four Ways
THE ULTIMATE CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE
15 Ways to Do Corned Beef Hash
17 Fun Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day This Year
How to Cook Corned Beef for a Classic Irish American Dinner
Who Was St. Patrick, and Why Do We Celebrate Him?
5 Exciting Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Home
10 Deliciously Simple Irish Recipes
Why Leprechauns Are Associated with
St. Patrick’s Day
Stay Safe with These St. Patrick's Day Masks
How to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at Home This Year
St. Patrick's Day Crafts to Make with Kids
18 Green Drinks for St. Patrick's Day
St. Patrick's Day Quotes to Celebrate the Luck of the Irish
Try Chef John's Best St Patrick's Day Dishes | Allrecipes
CARNIVAL/MARDI GRAS (MAR):
CARNIVAL/MARDI GRAS (MAR):
25 FAT TUESDAY RECIPES FOR YOUR MARDI GRAS MENU
15 Decadent Desserts for Your Mardi Gras Celebration
The History of Mardi Gras and New Orleans
Fat Tuesday Recipes to Let the Good Times Roll
Traditional Mardi Gras Menu for Your Holiday Feast
Traditional King Cake for Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras Recipes to Celebrate Carnival Season
What Is Mardi Gras and Why Do We Celebrate?
EASTER:
EASTER:
To celebrate Easter, consider traditional activities like decorating eggs, having an Easter brunch, and an egg hunt, or explore community events like Easter parades or bunny festivals, and don't forget to bake some Easter treats.
Here's a breakdown of ideas:
Traditional Activities:
Decorating Easter Eggs: This classic activity is a fun way to get creative and festive.
Easter Brunch: Enjoy a special meal with family and friends, featuring breakfast and lunch favorites.
Easter Egg Hunt: Hide eggs around the yard or house and let kids (and adults) have fun searching for them.
Bake Easter Treats: Prepare delicious treats like hot cross buns, Easter cakes, or chocolate eggs.
Make Easter Baskets: Create personalized baskets filled with treats, toys, and Easter-themed items.
Community Events:
Easter Parades: Many cities host Easter parades featuring colorful floats, costumes, and bonnets.
Bunny Festivals: Some communities organize bunny festivals with games, crafts, and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny.
Other Fun Activities:
Easter Crafts: Engage in creative activities like making Easter bonnets, decorating eggs, or crafting Easter-themed decorations.
Scavenger Hunt: Create a scavenger hunt with Easter-themed clues leading to a special prize.
Easter-Themed Games: Play Easter-themed games like Easter bingo or trivia.
Read Easter Books: Enjoy reading Easter-themed books with children.
Go to a Church Service: Many churches hold special Easter services to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.
Enjoy the Spring Weather: Take advantage of the nice weather by having a picnic, visiting a park, or going for a hike.
6 ways to celebrate Easter indoors with family
10 Easter event ideas to bring to your community this year
Unlocking Easter magic creative celebration ideas
Easter ideas for table decoration
7 Easter themed events and activities your community could run
11 Easter celebrations and traditions around the world
40 Best Easter Activities That Will Make Your Entire Family Hoppy (from the Pioneer Women)
24 EASTER BREAD & CAKE RECIPES
Fun Easter Treats And Easter Snacks For Kids
20 Delicious Spring And Easter Sweet Treats
15 Overnight Brunch Recipes for Easter
Lots more Ideas for celebrating Jesus and the Resurrection here.
70 Recipes That Use Leftover Ham
PASSOVER (apr):
PASSOVER (apr):
Passover is celebrated with a special Seder meal, abstaining from leavened foods (hametz) and eating matzah, while remembering the story of the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt through prayers, songs, and symbolic foods.
Here's a more detailed look at how Passover is celebrated:
Key Elements of Passover:
The Seder: This is the centerpiece of Passover, a festive meal that takes place on the first night (and in some families also on the second night) of the holiday.
The Seder recounts the story of the Exodus, using a series of foods, wine, prayers, and songs to tell the tale.
The Seder plate holds symbolic foods like a roasted shank bone, egg, bitter herbs, and charoset, each representing a different aspect of the Exodus.
Matzah: During Passover, people abstain from eating bread products and instead eat matzah, a cracker-like bread substitute, which symbolizes the bread that didn't have time to rise when the Israelites fled Egypt.
Avoiding Hametz: Passover is a time of abstaining from all leavened foods (hametz), which includes bread, cakes, and other foods made with flour that has been allowed to rise.
Passover Foods: Besides matzah, other foods are traditionally eaten during Passover, such as roasted lamb, charoset, and various other dishes that are free of hametz.
Synagogue Services: People attend synagogue services to hear readings from the Torah and to participate in prayers and songs that commemorate the Exodus.
Giving to Charity: On Passover, as on many other Jewish holidays, giving to those less fortunate is built into the holiday traditions.
No Work: Special prohibitions restrict work at the beginning and end of the celebration.
Singing "Dayenu": A familiar part of the Passover Seder, an infernally catchy song, a reminder to feel gratitude for what has been given.
Finding the Afikoman: Often, children are rewarded for finding it ( the afikoman ) with gifts of their choosing. [12, 15]
Passover Traditions:
Cleaning the House: Some people take the opportunity to deep-clean the house and remove all traces of hametz.
Watching Passover Movies: Some families watch movies together that tell the story of Passover, such as "The Ten Commandments" or "The Prince of Egypt".
Making Passover-Friendly Pizza: Some families enjoy making matzo pizza, a Passover-friendly twist on a classic dish.
Chocolate Matzo Toffee: Matzo toffee—made with matzo, butter, brown sugar, and chocolate—is quick and easy and can be made ahead.
[1] https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/what-is-passover-and-how-is-it-celebrated
[2] https://www.britannica.com/topic/Passover
[3] https://www.legalprofessionalsinc.org/traditional-foods-of-passover-and-easter/
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passover_Seder
[5] https://reformjudaism.org/jewish-holidays/passover/passover-customs-and-rituals
[7] https://pjlibrary.org/beyond-books/pjblog/march-2017/passover-101
[9] https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/rules-for-passover/
[10] https://www.oxo.com/blog/cooking-and-baking/passover-charoset-recipe
[11] https://birthrightisrael.foundation/blog/beyond-the-apple-a-fruity-and-fragrant-mizrahi-charoset/
[13] https://cl.pinterest.com/pin/191403052908458437/
[14] https://issuu.com/congregationagudathisrael/docs/the_voice_pesach_5784
[15] https://torah.org/interest/afikoman/
[16] https://pjcc.org/jewish-life/jewish-holidays-explained/passover/
[17] https://wydaily.com/latest/local/2021/03/22/five-things-you-need-to-know-celebrating-passover/
[18] https://www.washingtonpost.com/food/2024/04/15/how-to-make-matzoh-pizza-passover/
[19] https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/22/dining/passover-matzo-pizza.html
EARTH DAY 9 (apr)
EARTH DAY 9 (apr)
To celebrate Earth day, consider participating in a local cleanup, planting trees or native plants, attending an Earth Day event, or simply making a conscious effort to reduce your carbon footprint and conserve resources.
Here are some specific ways to celebrate Earth Day in Los Angeles and beyond:
Community & Action:
Organize or Participate in a Community Clean-up: Many cities and organizations host clean-up events, offering a chance to make a tangible difference in your local environment.
Attend Local Earth Day Events: Check for festivals, workshops, or educational events in your area, often featuring environmental organizations and activities.
Volunteer for an Environmental Organization: Many organizations need help with various projects, from tree planting to habitat restoration.
Support Local Businesses with Sustainable Practices: Choose businesses that prioritize eco-friendly practices, such as using reusable containers or reducing waste.
Spread the Word: Share information about Earth Day and environmental issues on social media or with friends and family.
Home & Lifestyle:
Plant a Tree or Native Plants: Trees and native plants help absorb carbon dioxide and provide habitat for wildlife.
Start Composting: Composting food scraps and yard waste reduces landfill waste and creates rich soil for your garden.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Make a conscious effort to reduce your consumption, reuse items whenever possible, and recycle properly.
Conserve Water: Take shorter showers, fix leaky faucets, and water your lawn efficiently.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Walk, bike, or use public transportation instead of driving, and choose energy-efficient appliances.
Switch to Renewable Energy: Consider switching to a renewable energy provider or installing solar panels.
Eat Sustainable Food: Choose locally sourced, seasonal, and plant-based meals to reduce your environmental impact.
Make a Nature Art Project: Show your dedication to the planet by creating nature-themed art.
Go for a Hike in the Woods: Spend time in nature and appreciate the beauty of our planet.
Swap Out Your Plastic Products: Replace single-use plastic items with reusable alternatives.
More ways on how to celebrate Earth Day
Earth day activities on a budget
5 tips to celebrate Earth Day at kindergartens and schools
10 ways to celebrate Earth Day every day
Earth Day Adventures: Six Family-Friendly Activities to Connect with Nature - Earth911
Unique Earth Day Traditions To Start as a Family
Family Movies for Earth Day and Every Day
Earth Day Network Wants to Reduce Your Foodprint
8 Interactive Ways to Teach Children About Earth Day
MEMORIAL DAY (may):
MEMORIAL DAY (may):
What Was Memorial Day Originally Called?
Poems of war and remembrance.
The history of the Medal of Honor.
Red, White, and Blue Desserts for Memorial Day and July 4th
Short Lessons About Memorial Day
How to Display the American Flag 🇺🇸
65 Easy Memorial Day Recipes - Best Food Ideas for Your Memorial Day Party
Memorial Day Weekend : How to make the perfect cheeseburger
40 Patriotic Quotes to Honor the USA on Memorial Day
20 Memorial Day Activities to Plan for Your Family
46 Memorial Day Desserts for a Sweet Addition to Your Holiday Weekend
30 Memorial Day Songs to Put on Your Patriotic Playlist
The Best Military Movies and Shows Streaming Right Now ...
42 Best Memorial Day Movies of 2024 — War Movies to Watch...
5 best war movies you should watch on Memorial Day
MOTHER'S DAY (may):
MOTHER'S DAY (may):
21 Marvelously Inexpensive Mother's Day Gifts
50 Easy Mother's Day Crafts to Make With Your Kids
40 Things to Do with Your Mom on Mother's Day (Even if You're Apart!)
86 DIY Mother's Day Gifts for a Thoughtful Present From the Heart
Mother's Day Breakfasts That Will Make You Mom's Favorite
85 DIY Mother's Day Crafts - Easy Homemade Gifts for Mother's Day
52 Easy Mother's Day Crafts for Kids - Preschool Mothers Day Craft Ideas
74 Best Breakfast in Bed Ideas and Recipes for Mother's Day - Mother's Day Breakfast in Bed Recipes
SPRING (MAR):
SPRING (MAR):
Spaghetti Trees and the History of April Fools' Day
Why Do We Celebrate April Fool's Day?
Activities for Your Spring Bucket List
18 Outdoor Activities for the Spring Season
The Ultimate Guide to Free Springtime Activities
7 Frugal ways to Save Money this Spring
7 Tips to Save Money on Easter
5 Easy Ways to Save Money in April
Have a free printable with a list of Spring Activities for the whole family. You can download it HERE.
QUOTES:
"The Walk About: We started taking walks this spring but found circling the block so boring. When we changed to "destination walking" we found a wonderful way of sharing our day and accomplishing an errand or two. We also found it fun to follow bike trails. Try taking a destination walk or try following a bike path! Dena from Dollar Stretcher Tips"
FATHER'S DAY:
FATHER'S DAY:
20 Sweet Father's Day Quotes to Write in Your Dad's Card
11 Fathers Day Menu Ideas With Recipes
21 Easy Father’s Day Breakfast Ideas And Recipes
26 DIY Father's Day Gift Baskets - Homemade Ideas for Gift Baskets for Dad
65 DIY Father's Day Gifts for the Guy Who Has Everything
39 Father-Son Quotes to Make Dad Smile on Father's Day
25 Easy-as-Pie Father's Day Crafts the Kids Can Make for Dad
35 Best Father's Day Songs to Listen to With Your Dad
40 Best Father's Day Breakfast Ideas to Cook Him a Delicious Feast
20 Best Father's Day Activities to Spend Some Quality Time Together
The 40 Best Movies About Dads to Watch on Father's Day
60 Best Dad Jokes Guaranteed to Make You Giggle
Chef John's Best Father's Day Recipes | Allrecipes
30+ Best Father's Day Bible Verses — Best Bible Verses About Fathers
35 Best Father's Day Brunch Recipes - Menu Ideas for Father's Day Brunch
4th of JULY:
4th of JULY:
Why Barbecue Is Traditionally Eaten On Fourth Of July
27 PATRIOTIC PARTY PICKS: RED, WHITE & BLUE RECIPES
Top 10 Ways to Celebrate the 4th of July
Financial Advice From America's Founding Fathers
22 Red, White, and Blue Desserts for a Patriotic Celebration
30 4th of July Party Ideas You Can DIY
22 Best 4th of July Wreaths - How to Make a Fourth of July Wreath
20 Quotes About Freedom - Truthful Sayings of Independence
80 Best 4th of July Captions for Every Patriotic Photo You Post on Instagram
38 4th of July Desserts to Show off Your Patriotic Pride
18 4th of July Activities to Keep the Family Entertained All Day
41 4th of July Crafts to Get in the Holiday Spirit
7 Five-Course 4th of July Menus to Please Every Palate at Your Cookout
25 4th of July Appetizers Fit to Feed a Crowd
90+ of Our Favorite Grilling Recipes for Backyard Barbecues and Beyond
70 BBQ Side Dishes for the Most Mouthwatering Additions to Your Backyard Menus
American Flag Etiquette: Here's How to Properly Display the American Flag
Best Side Dishes for Your 4th of July Cookout
25 4th of July Cake Recipes to Cap off Your Holiday Barbecue
39 4th of July Desserts to Show off Your Patriotic Pride
The Best 4th of July Songs for the Perfect Holiday Soundtrack
47 Movies To Watch This July 4th Weekend
Tips and Products to Help Your Dog Handle the Fireworks This Fourth of July
LABOR DAY (sept):
LABOR DAY (sept):
32 Labor Day Appetizers + 5-Star Taco Salad
20 Best Labor Day Recipes to Serve at Your Annual Cookout
Labor Day weekend tips:
Just because summer is coming to a close doesn’t mean water safety isn’t a top priority. Are you and your family prepared for the weekend? Use help from experts to stay safe and have fun with whatever you do.
Beach safety : Are you heading to a new beach near you or a family favorite? Check the water quality and health advisories from EPA.gov before you go.
Food safety: Hosting or attending a cookout? Get food safety tips, understand signs of food poisoning, and track the latest recalls at FoodSafety.gov.
Road trip safety : Review summer driving safety tips from NHTSA.gov. Go through vehicle checks, have the right equipment before you go, and plan your route!
SUMMER (JUNE):
SUMMER (JUNE):
100 Free Summer Activities for People of All Ages
Family-Friendly Online Safety Tips for Summer Vacations
Improve your health and stay physically active this summer
15 Cheap Vacation Ideas for the Whole Family
Is your family ready for a fun swim season? Safety is the key.
Recreation.gov: Need summer plans? You don't need to spend a lot of money to enjoy this spring and summer season. There are hundreds of parks and lakes offering tours, camping, hiking, fishing, and so much more across the country. Recreation.gov makes it easy to find campsite tours, a park that fits your budget and hobbies and other activities. Learn about the activities available, date and time of operations, price, and if you need a permit to visit.
5 Budget-Friendly Summer Activities To Do With Your Kids
7 Marvelous Ways To Save Money on Summer Vacation
7 Ways To Have Summer Fun On A Budget
14 Free or Dirt-Cheap Summer Activities for Kids
Where to Find Free (or Cheap) Summer Activities
24 Summer Bucket List Ideas - Things To Do Before Summer Ends
HOW TO MAKE THE ULTIMATE FRUIT TRAY
Host Your Own Family Olympics With These Summer Lawn Games
15 Summer Grilling Menus You'll Eat All Season Long
25 Easy Camping Breakfast Recipes - Best Campfire Breakfast Ideas
5 Entertaining and Educational Summer Vacation Ideas Perfect for Kids
71 Ways to Save Money This Summer
Kids out of school? Here’s the easiest way to schedule their summer days
Best Ways To Save Money In The Summer
6 Brilliant Ideas to Create Your Own DIY Backyard Waterpark
6 Fun Summer Activities for Free-Range Kids
Back to Nature: A Summer Camp Experience for Children
CNN: Summer is not completely canceled. Here are 100 things we can do with or without kids. (this was created during COVID times but still has many ideas you can put to good use!!)
If a taxpayer is sending a child to summer camp, the cost may count toward the Child and Dependent Care Credit.
QUOTES:
Water Party: Here's something that my husband and I are planning to do sometime this summer. We're inviting our extended family's children to a water party. We will be purchasing an inexpensive inflatable pool and will invite all the kids to bring their water guns, put on their swimsuits, and come prepared to have fun in the sun. Then we will have a fix-your-own-ice cream-sundae bar set up in the shade. When the kids get all sticky, they can just jump back in the pool or we can hose them down. The adults will enjoy this as well. Vivian G. from Dollar Stretcher
Free Camping: I travel every summer. To eliminate utilities, rent or payments, I volunteer as a campground host at state and national parks. I get a free campsite with full hook-up and use of laundry facilities; some even have cable and wi-fi. It's a win-win situation. I have been doing it for years. Terry from Dollar Stretcher Tips
KIDS (AUG):
KIDS (AUG):
LOW COST OR NO COST ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS:
101 free things to do with kids (Rachel came up with these favorite free ideas during coronavirus) https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/things-to-do-with-kids
We Buried Treasure in the Australian Outback 7 Years Ago
15 No-Bake Cookies to Make With Your Kids
Build your kids' money skills while they're home from school.
Complete List of Free Educational Resources for Kids Who are Home Due to School Closings
Family Date Night Challenge: 30 Days of Indoor Activities for Families
Cheap Indoor and Outdoor Party Games for Kids | ParentMap
Best or cheap things to do with your kids
Entertainment for kids: www.starfall.com for beginning readers, www.kidsdinos.com for kids that love dinosaurs, www.coloring.com for aspiring artists, www.kidsastronomy.com for future astronauts, www.sikids.com which is the kid’s version of sports illustrated online
International Childrens Digital Library is an engine search created by librarians with hundreds of topics that can be searched alphabetically. Full of kid-friendly information useful for homework.
7 Affordable Alternatives to Expensive Kids' Extracurricular Activities
A bored jar for teenagers.... | The Diary of a Frugal Family
15 Recommended Preschool and Kindergarten Resources | Money Saving Mom
Online activities for kids: 40 free & cheap ways to keep kids entertained - Clark Deals
Free, fun educational app for young kids | Khan Academy Kids
YouTube Arts & Crafts Channels, Videos & Playlists for Kids
45 Easy Dinner Ideas For Kids - Quick Kid Friendly Dinner Recipes
15 Best Plants for Kids That Are Safe to Grow - Easy Flowers for Kids to Plant
Educational Documentaries | Netflix - YouTube
6 Tips for Gardening with Kids
Educating Children in the Spirit of Simple Living
The 13 Best Board Games That Teach Kids Financial Literacy (And Are Actually Fun)
HOBBIES/AFFORDABLE LUXURIES (sept):
HOBBIES/AFFORDABLE LUXURIES (sept):
Look for free entertainment. The library is a great source of free entertainment. Libraries provide access to thousands of free books, DVDs and music. Additionally, you can find tons of entertainment online including free movies, free games, free music, free audiobooks and free e-books. Bookmark each of these links so that you’ll always have a list of free (and legal) resources to check out online during your downtime.
Find libraries and archives : Local public libraries not only lend books. They help children learn to read, and adults learn English or find a job. Federal libraries gather and preserve special collections.
MURDLE: Daily mystery puzzles by G. T. Karber: If you would like to solve more mysteries, join the Detective Club, a secret sleuthing society. Solve mysteries with your fellow gumshoes!
100 Deep Questions to Ask Your Friends
145 fun questions for couples to ask at any point to deepen their relationship
10 Frugal Fun Things To Do In Your Hometown
11 Frugal Hobbies for a Tight Budget
Volunteer Your Way to Some Free Fun
7 Tips for Buying a Musical Instrument for Less
Planning a Budget-Friendly Family Vacation
Try these tips to save money when buying a musical instrument.
Small Things That Can Make Your Life Brighter
Affordable Little Luxuries for the Tightest Budget
How to Find Free Events and Free Things to Do
How to Have an Affordable and Safe Staycation Even with the Pandemic
When You Can't Keep Up with Expensive Friends
7 Hobbies That Help You Live Longer
Use apps such as the Groupon app and The Entertainment Book to find free and cheap things to do in your area.
11 Frugal Hobbies for a Tight Budget
Affordable Treats to Counteract the Stress of Tough Times
103 Things to Do on a Money-Free Weekend - The Simple Dollar
7 Amazing Staycation Ideas for Any Budget - Clark Howard
Frugal Entertainment Options - The Frugal Engineers
59 Things To Do Instead of Watching TV So That You Can Take Your Life Back
6 Easy Tips for Entertaining on a Budget
These family-friendly games can make social isolation bearable and maybe even fun
19 immersive museum exhibits you can visit from your couch
25 Ideas to Keep Entertained at Home (Even If You're Quarantined)
Small Splurges That Won't Break Your Budget
39 Fun Things to Do at Home During a Quarantine - Frugal Rules
Small Splurges That Won't Break Your Budget
7 Totally Free Ways to Be Happier Today
10 Easy Hiking Snacks and Backpacking Food To Make
34 Easy Mug Cake Recipes - Mug Desserts to Make in the Microwave
10 Frugal Fun Things to Do In Your Hometown
100 fun-filled activities that don’t cost a dime.
101 Fun things to do with no money
Listen to How to Have a Low-Cost Adventure in the Midst of a Financial Depression from Radical Personal Finance on Apple Podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-personal-finance/id896153632?i=1000472225850
The best board games to play with your quarantined housemates
Tour Disneyland, Disney World and more for free with Google Street View.
Free living room pub quiz every Tuesday night at 7 pm (UK).
Play League of Legends free from your home.
Sign up for PBS KIDS free daily newsletter for free games, videos and projects for kids.
Free coloring pages, from American Gothic to van Gogh's The Bedroom from the Art Institute of Chicago.
Sign up for Scholastics free, learn from home projects fo kids.
Play Fortnite: Battle Royale for free.
Audible has a huge library of free children's books.
Watch performances free from The Met.
A list of free movies and shows from HBO to Roku is here
This site will let you drive through the world's biggest cities
Art & History Tours
Free behind the scenes tours of exhibits and classes with the American Museum of Natural History. More here.
Tour Google's Arts & Culture Collection for free.
Free, virtual tours of history's grandest castles, from Windsor to Catherine Palace in Russia.
Nature Tours
See Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tour.
Watch the San Diego Zoo's free, live webcams.
Up to 32 free, virtual national part tours, from Arches National Park to Denali and more.
Monterey Bay Aquarium is living streaming for free.
Explore the Taj Mahal for free.
PODCAST:
FI Frugal Hobbies | Chris Terrell
QUOTES:
Free Music Lessons: I always wanted to learn to play the piano but didn't have the time or money for lessons. So I did an online search for sites that taught piano. I found a lot of sites and apps that have free tutorials and sheet music for you to practice. My favorite is HoffmanAcademy.com. They have both videos and lessons. I'm learning at my own pace and this old piano is finally making music again! Jarrett from Dollar Stretcher Tips
A Fun Way To Save on Puzzles: I created a puzzle club with a group of friends — we're all retired. I invited several friends over for dessert and coffee and asked everyone to bring one 500- to 1000-piece puzzle that they had at home. I had everyone write their name on their puzzle box and I made a list of everyone's name and puzzle. Then we stood in a circle and everyone passed their puzzle to the person to their left and I wrote down who had which puzzle. Then, everyone went home with a new puzzle to work on without spending any additional money. Every few weeks, we get together for coffee and dessert (with the puzzles) and pass them on to the next person. If someone isn't quite finished with one, I have extras that I throw into the rotation. When we take a finished puzzle apart, we put the edge pieces into a plastic bag so the next person doesn't have to sort them! We also leave notes in the boxes to one another about any missing pieces. Once we've all had a chance with each puzzle, we'll start the process over with new puzzles. Dot from Dollar Stretcher Tips
Ladies Night for Less: My girlfriends and I used to go out to a fancy restaurant each month, but now most of us are watching our dollars, so we take turns hosting a dinner. We all chip in $20 and the hostess makes a salad bar. It's just like what we would find at a fancy dinner! And we even have enough to buy two nice dessert choices or a dessert and a bottle or box of wine! Sometimes, we play a board game or watch a favorite movie.
Helen from Dollar Stretcher Tips
Enjoy the Theater for Free: We enjoy going to the theater and I believe supporting the arts is important. We subscribe to a major theater in the city and a smaller community theater nearby. That's all we can afford.But I volunteer as an usher at four other theaters both in the city and outside, including a small non-profit movie house. It is a great way to see free theater and help support the arts. It's not hard. You just arrive about an hour before the show and stuff playbills. Most theaters encourage spouses to volunteer together, so it can be a night out. It's a huge money saver! Kristin from Dollar Stretcher Tips
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