by Leigh Goessl

Created on: May 22, 2009   Last Updated: September 11, 2009

At a time where most everyone is looking to scale back on expenses, entertainment is usually one of the first things to go since it is often categorized in the luxury category and is not as a necessity, such as shelter, some utilities or food.

While theoretically entertainment is not a necessity, it is good to be able to unwind, laugh and relax. If a person neglects these things, they have a higher probability of being unhappy, stressed out or may become ill.

Down time is important for everyone, but with the costs of entertainment continuously increasing, this is an expense many people don't want, or can't afford, to absorb.

The good news is there are many great ways to indulge in entertainment without breaking the bank. Fun doesn't have to equate to expensive if you look for alternative ways to find entertainment.

Here are a few tips that may help trim back on an entertainment budget:

*Movies

Going to the movie theatre is expensive. In most regions of the US a movie ticket costs $8-$10 per person. Instead of paying top price for these tickets for movies you want to see as soon as they are released, try and catch the matinee instead; this will save you a few bucks.

If you don't mind waiting a while after a new release to see a film, there are many budget movie theatres cropping up which show movies at a substantial discount on their tickets. The catch to these are the movies are typically shown a couple of months after the initial release and the regular movie theatres are no longer showing them. In the US you can pay anywhere from $1-$5 for these kinds of tickets, which is a significant savings.

Another option is to forego the movies altogether and rent DVDs. Invite your date over, pop some popcorn or make a nice dessert to share and enjoy a film together. If your plans normally include going out with groups of friends, invite everyone over and make a party out of it.

Plan a picnic dinner on a blanket and pop in a great family friendly DVD for dinner and a movie for the whole family. If you don't want to cook, order a pizza! This is still cheaper than going out for dinner and a flick.

*Specials/Coupons

For places such as restaurants, theme parks, miniature golf, bowling and other like activities, keep an eye out for specials or coupons. Some places offer weekly specials while others provide special savings through coupons.

Additionally many of these establishments ask for email or mailing addresses and routinely send out special notices of savings for regular customers to take advantage of. Keep an eye out for these and base your entertainment plans around the times you can get savings.

*Look for Free or Low Cost Entertainment

You don't have to spend a lot of money for entertainment. While it is fun to see concerts by celebrities and go see professional sports games, these are typically really costly. Instead of going to these venues, try free concerts in the park or go watch a semi-pro ball game.

There are many other activities which are usually free or low cost. In addition to concerts and ball games, try scoping out museums, zoos and local parks for special events or to simply visit to unwind. The opportunities for entertainment and fun are plentiful if you research and look in the right places.

Learn more about this author, Leigh Goessl.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.