Entertainment doesn’t have to cost a lot. In fact, there are plenty of free entertainment options to save money – from local parks to online platforms – that let you have fun without spending a dime.
This guide explores low-cost, high-value ways to enjoy life, relax, and stay entertained, whether you’re flying solo, with family, or spending time with friends.
1. Take Advantage of Your Local Library
Libraries today offer way more than books. You can access:
DVDs and Blu-rays
Audiobooks and eBooks
Board games and puzzles
Museum and park passes
Free workshops and classes
To get started, visit Find Your Local Library and explore what’s available in your area – from books and DVDs to free passes and community events.
2. Watch TV and Movies for Free Online
Getting rid of cable TV doesn’t mean losing access to great shows. Use:
Tubi, Pluto TV, and Crackle for movies and shows
The Roku Channel for on-demand and live TV
YouTube for free documentaries, podcasts, and hobby content
Related Post: How to Ditch Cable TV and Save Money
3. Explore Free Local Events
Most cities and towns host year-round free events like:
Park concerts
Outdoor movies
Seasonal parades
Cultural festivals
Open mic or trivia nights
Check your city’s website, community boards, or Facebook Events. These are great free entertainment options to save money with the added bonus of getting outside and meeting people.
4. Get Outdoors
Nature is 100% free and always open. Some options:
Go hiking or biking
Have a picnic at the park
Walk a new trail
Visit local gardens or wildlife areas
Try a beach or lake day
Getting outdoors is a refreshing way to reset your mind and save on indoor entertainment costs.
5. Host a Game Night or Potluck
Instead of going out, host a casual hangout:
Board games, trivia, or video games
Everyone brings one dish or drink
Rotate houses for variety
It’s cheap, fun, and a perfect way to stay social on a budget.
6. Try Free Online Classes and Tutorials
Learn and entertain yourself at the same time. Check out:
YouTube – Tutorials for music, crafts, home repairs
Coursera, edX, or Khan Academy – Free educational content
Duolingo – Fun way to learn a new language
Skillshare – Free trial for creative classes
7. Look for Museum and Zoo Free Days
Many museums, zoos, and aquariums offer free admission:
First Friday/Sunday of the month
National holidays
With a library or local resident card
Community appreciation days
Call ahead or check their websites for upcoming dates.
8. Use Free Mobile Apps for Fun
Some great free entertainment apps:
Libby – Borrow books and audiobooks via your library
Geocaching – Outdoor treasure hunting game
Radio Garden – Listen to radio stations around the world
Podcast Addict, Spotify (Free) – Access thousands of podcasts
These apps offer hours of entertainment, all for free.
9. Volunteer and Join the Fun
Volunteering = free access + meaningful engagement.
Try helping at:
Music festivals
Community theaters
Charity runs
Local events and art shows
You get involved and enjoy the event without paying for a ticket.
10. Tap Into Creative At-Home Entertainment
Plenty of free fun starts right at home:
Host a themed movie night
Try a new recipe
Start journaling or sketching
Learn an instrument (YouTube can teach you)
Play card games or do a puzzle
Sometimes the best free entertainment options to save money are already in your living room.
With a little planning, it’s easy to incorporate free entertainment options to save money into your weekly routine and still enjoy a rich, rewarding life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is free entertainment really enjoyable?
Absolutely! Many people find it even more fulfilling because it focuses on connection, creativity, and intentional choices.
What if I live in a small town?
Use virtual options, explore nature, or build community around shared hobbies like book clubs, sports, or gardening.
How can I find free local events?
Check Facebook Events, Meetup, community centers, and local government websites for updated listings.
Do free options work for families with kids?
Yes! Libraries, parks, craft nights, and community events often offer family-focused fun without spending a cent.
How much can I really save?
Depending on your habits, switching to free options could save you hundreds to over $1,000 a year.
