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EVENTS & RECREATION
EVENTS & RECREATION MONEY SAVING & BUDGETING TIPS
Local Attractions & Activities
There is nothing quite like going to a live event for an entertaining afternoon or
evening. Unfortunately, many live events, such as concerts by well-
1. Tickets to concerts, shows and big league sporting events are expensive. And that is just the beginning of the cost. Parking and refreshments can also make a major dent in your budget. While you can’t do much to lower these costs, consider the following:
a. Reduce the number of these types of events you attend. Consider if the enjoyment received from these “major” live events is really worth it. Most people have to work many hours or even days to earn the cost of these events. With the availability of major sports on TV, and music from many different sources, perhaps your entertainment dollars can be spent more wisely elsewhere.
b. Try to buy discounted tickets whenever possible. Many cities have discounted ticket booths for theatrical and other types of shows. And discounted tickets for many events can be purchased over the Internet. Just type “discount event tickets” into your search engine and there will be plenty of sites. A site called SeatFetcher.com will also allow you to search the major ticket sellers all from one site, to make it easier to compare prices and availability. Sometimes tickets can be found on eBay.com or CraigsList.org. But be careful when buying on these sites directly from a person or unknown entity. You may not always get what you are paying for. Tickets may sometimes also be less expensive if you buy them well in advance. If you go with a large group, ticket prices will often be discounted.
c. If you are a member of any associations or groups check to see if they offer discounts to certain events.
d. Check the classifieds a week before the game or event. Often season ticket holders cannot go to the event and are looking to sell their tickets.
e. If the event is not a total sellout, try going to the event and purchasing tickets from “scalpers” at the last minute. If street sales are slow, tickets may become very “reasonably priced” as the event is about to start. If you cannot find tickets at a reasonable price, just go do something else instead of paying high prices.
f. If allowed, bring your own refreshments to the event. It may not be exactly the same as purchasing food and drink at the event, but it will be a whole lot less expensive. Or try a tailgate party in the parking lot before the event and refrain from buying refreshments inside the gate.
g. Stay away from the souvenirs. Do you really need that program or trinket? Save your money for something that you can really use.
h. Try parking a little further away from the event to save on parking costs, if the weather is nice and the walk is safe. Or travel to the event with others to share the cost of transportation and parking.
2. Fortunately, there are plenty of live events that do not require an “arm and a leg” to attend. They are in each of our communities and are lots of fun. Check the local newspapers and schools, and enjoy the following types of events.
a. Every high school, as well as many grammar and middle schools, hold sporting events all the time. Most of the time, the cost of admission is either low or free. These events do not only include the major sports of football, baseball and basketball, but also many other sports. Try going to wrestling matches, soccer, volleyball, tennis, golf, swimming and many other sports. The competition is great.
b. If you are near some colleges, you may enjoy attending their sporting events. While some events like football and basketball may be a bit pricey, most of the other sporting events (and there are many) are reasonably priced.
c. If you have minor league or semi-
d. There are usually plenty of shows throughout the year to choose from in most communities. Look into middle and high school plays and shows. You may also have a community theater that puts on shows. Churches, local colleges, and community groups also put on shows.
e. Many communities also offer free concerts in the summertime. Going to the local fireworks is also a great show.
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