A Night (or Day) Out without Breaking the Bank

It never fails to amaze me how much prices rise.  It doesn’t seem that long ago that matinee movie tickets were well under $4 each … and now the least expensive I’ve seen is $5 (and that’s a bargain!).  It can be difficult at times to find bargains for “date night” … so here are a few I’ve been able to pull together.

“Dinner” and a Movie
Many times, if my husband and I want to go out to eat AND to a movie, we’ll go out for lunch first … and then take in a matinee.  First, many restaurants have lunch-sized portions available for a smaller price.  We’ll also time our lunch with the movie schedule so we’re full when it’s time to see the film.  That way, we’re not only saving on the movie TICKET, but we’re not as likely to spend a fortune on movie snacks.

Become a Fan of Chain Restaurants

Don’t get me wrong.  My favorite places to eat are non-chain restaurants, but there are many chains I do enjoy.  So, I advise you sign up for emails from those chains you like.  These help out because “members” are eligible for discounts.  I’ve gotten several “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” and “Free Appetizer or Dessert” coupons – and they only cost me a little time when wading through my email and a little printer ink and paper to print off the message.

Bring on the Birthday Presents!

This goes along with the tip before.  Sign up for birthday lists.  You’re likely to get deals for free entrees, appetizers, desserts, and more.  Last year, I think I had at least 3 or 4 different deals for different restaurants, so I had plenty of options – plus, the coupons had about a 2 week window before they expired, so I was able to spread the wealth!  A friend also told me the Comedy Club Stardome offers free tickets for your birthday.  I signed up for this one, but my birthday hasn’t come around yet.  We’ll see what happens there.

These are just a few of the day/night out bargains I’ve come across through personal experience.  I know there are MANY more out there, but I haven’t found them all yet!  I did get this link through The Nest for 50 dates under $50, but I haven’t tried them all out just yet.

More bargain hunting is on the way in the weeks to come.  Happy date night!  Let me know if you come across more ideas!