Play and fun can help adapt to challenging situations, enhance collaboration, and improve problem-solving skills. But they often seem costly. Positive psychology coach Emma Tempest advises, “Don’t let money or time decide whether you’ll have fun. You can have fun despite those things if you put your mind to it.” Here are some budget-friendly ideas from NPR staff and play experts.
Find Free Local Events
Check your local newspaper or online events board for low-cost or free community events and festivals. Personal finance writer Nicole Dow suggests, “Farmers markets often have local people performing and always offer free samples from vendors.”
Picnic in the Park
Life Kit producer Margaret Cirino recommends organizing a picnic with friends. “Pack a hammock and snacks like strawberries and crackers. Lay out blankets together and enjoy the day,” she says.
Penny Date Adventure
Nicole Dow proposes taking a coin and assigning each side to left and right. Explore a new area and flip the coin at intersections. This adventure could help you find new stores, buildings, and public spaces.
Host a Food Challenge
Life Kit producer Sylvie Douglis hosts themed food nights. With friends, they taste-test Kit Kats from around the world. Douglis adds, “You could also try various brands of the same flavor chip from a local shop.”
Create Art Together
Margaret Cirino enjoys setting up art nights with friends. “We get cheap art supplies, watch a movie, or choose a theme. We’ll paint for five minutes before swapping canvases,” she explains.
Use Your Imagination
As a school teacher, Emma Tempest heard students wondering what animals were thinking. Inspired, she suggests creating storylines for people and things around you while people-watching.
Movie Marathon Party
Life Kit editor Meghan Keane hosted a rom-com movie marathon. The day featured various films and a photoshopped invitation. Guests could join for the entire day or specific movies, like “My Best Friend’s Wedding.”
Visit Museums
NPR producer Janet Woojeong Lee suggests visiting museums when they offer discounted tickets. Some museums provide free tickets with advanced reservations. Check if your local library offers museum passes.
Create a Game
Planet Money host Darian Woods enjoys a group game requiring no materials. Friends choose a category and rate a selected item from one to ten. The aim is to see how well you know each other’s preferences.
House Swap
Swap homes with friends or family who live in a neighborhood or city you want to visit. Nicole Dow says, “Experience their environment and enjoy amenities like pools or DVD collections. It’s a low-cost vacation alternative.”
This article’s audio was reported by Marielle Segarra, produced by Thomas Lu, and edited by Meghan Keane. We’d like to hear your thoughts or ideas. Email [email protected]. Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or sign up for our newsletter.