We all need a little more fun in our lives. If you are on a budget or are trying to save more money, you might think that you can’t afford it. Not true! There are a lot of fun-filled activities that are free or inexpensive.
1. Explore the outdoors
Northern New Englanders are extremely blessed to have a whole host of low- to no-cost activities available to us when we step outside. You can head to the mountains and forests for walks, hikes, and camping. There’s also trips to the seaside to collect sea glass and other treasures. The sky is literally the limit.
2. Find your nearest library
You can travel anywhere or experience anything when you open a book and immerse yourself in another’s world. Visit your nearest library and check out a book to start exploring. Not a big reader? Libraries often have more than just physical books. Some lend out audiobooks and videos.
3. Host your friends at home
There are so many fun things you can do from the comfort of your own home. Invite friends over for a potluck or movie night. Amp up the competitive spirit by playing board games or hosting competitions like a bake-off. Anything will be fun when friends are involved.
4. Attend community events
There is almost always some kind of event happening in your community. Look for free or discounted tickets to museums and art galleries. Catch a parade. Find live music in the park or at a restaurant. Pro-tip: join your community’s online social group to stay informed of what’s happening when and where.
5. Learn a new skill
Head over to your favorite online video platform or any of many websites that provide video-based classes on how to do something new. Actually, you don’t even need to look for “classes.” You can easily watch short videos on social media to learn new skills such as cooking or car repair. Don’t have a computer or internet access? Visit your local library.
6. Recreational sports
If you’re looking for free or low-cost sports activities to feed your competitive drive, check out your town or city’s recreation department. There are often leagues you can join to play sports such as baseball, basketball, and kickball. If you don’t have time for a season-long commitment, find a local basketball, tennis, or pickleball court and join a pick-up game. You might even consider joining a running club.
7. Flip a penny
There’s nothing like a little spontaneity to induce fun. Grab a penny and mark one side as left and the other as right. Flip the penny and head in the direction it indicates. Keep flipping until you find a place to explore. Pro-tip: if you try this in a place you’ve never been to before, make sure you remember where you parked so you can find your way home.
8. Volunteer
Volunteering is the best kind of fun because you are also giving back. Community organizations rely on volunteers, and there are often opportunities for you to lend a hand to a good cause. You’ll also meet new people who might want to join you in your quest for budget-friendly fun. Pro-tip: organizations sometimes reward event volunteers, such as concert ushers and parking attendants, with free access to the event.
Having fun doesn’t have to include a big price tag. All you need is a can-do spirit and a dose of imagination to find enjoyment using the resources already surrounding you.
Have questions or need assistance?
If you have questions about this topic or need assistance with your banking needs, please speak to one of our knowledgeable staff at your local Bar Harbor Bank & Trust branch. We’re here to help you build a solid financial future.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or other financial advice. Consumers should seek the advice of a financial advisor/professional, tax consultant, or legal counsel for their specific needs.
