by Renee Rotto

Created on: September 21, 2009   Last Updated: October 11, 2009

It's Friday night, and it's been a heck of a week. All you want to do is kick your heels up and have some fun with your mate. Only one problem, not much cash. If only you could think of some cool stuff to do that didn't cost a bunch of money.

Well here are a few suggestions for going out on a budget.

Check the coupons in your local phone book. Local restaurants, clubs and pizza parlors sometimes offer two for one and special offers.

Eat early or eat late. Many restaurants offer early-bird dinners or late 'meal deals'. Sometimes they even offer weekend specials on the 'catch of the day'.

If you're going to the late dinner, catch the early show. There is usually a cheap show before 6pm and in the afternoon, on the weekends. You can double your savings if you plan it right.

If it's nice weather, check for community activities in the newspaper or online. Concerts in the park are usually free to the public. Don't forget the blanket and picnic basket, for the romantic dinner effect.

Or try some karaoke. This can be a fun evening and you can even win a prize.

For the cultural types, there are always the museum or the art gallery showings. Museums are free, at least one day of the week. Art gallery showings may not be free but they usually include free wine and hors d'oeuvres.

Try the local mixers, and social organizations. You can socialize, eat potluck with new friends, go line dancing or play bingo - all for a pittance.

Check out the local library. They provide many services for the community other than movies and book loans. You can even learn new languages, crafts or join a writers club.

Look into joining a restaurant club. Check out www.restaurant.com for $25 dinner coupons that you can purchase for $10. They cover every state and have several restaurant choices.

Many times there are fairs and festivals with live music and festival food. I always loved when the Greek Orthodox Festival came to town, with their wonderful ethnic foods. But if you just want to be alone with your mate, for a quiet, romantic night, try a walk on the beach. And if the romance gets steamy, you might want to pop into the adult bookstore, just for fun. It's free and you don't have to buy a thing.

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