When you want to go to a lot of concerts, museums, and theatre events, you really only have two options: save money and miss out, or go every now and then and spend too much. I struggle to make it to art events and performances, even though I’m an artist myself, because they simply cost too much to manage as often as I’d like. These events are expensive and there’s just no way around it. Right?
Well, maybe not. You can’t get into literally any event for free, of course. It may take a little creativity and planning, but you can get in to more events than you might think for exactly zero dollars. Read on for three tips to find entertainment near you for free.
Image by US Navy
Seek Out Free Events
Well, it’s pretty easy to get in for free when the event is free in the first place, right? The key is to actively seek out free events. Check a local newspaper or magazine or search online for free events locally. Even paying attention to posters and flyers that you see when you’re out and about can be a big help; most of us have taught ourselves to tune them out. Grocery stores, places of worship and community centers often have message boards where you may find free events or activities of interest.
Find Giveaways
Depending on the event you want to go to, you may be able to get your hands on free tickets through a giveaway. Radio stations, for example, often give away tickets to concerts; sometimes, these may be the last tickets available to an otherwise sold out event. In-person raffles and internet giveaways and sweepstakes can also score you a free pass. Also try visiting an event’s or band’s own website; they may host their own sweepstakes or give out free tickets occasionally. This is a good way to get your hands on tickets to some of the more expensive events and concerts you may want to go to.
Volunteer
This can be a fun and easy way to get a free ticket. You can go directly to theatres and other performance venues, or to a performing group, and ask if they could use a hand. Tell them you’ll pass out programs, help set up and clean up afterwards, all for free; if they’ll guarantee you the freedom to enjoy the event itself. It won’t work every time, but you may be surprised how many arts organizations would be thrilled to meet a willing volunteer whose only price is the right to enjoy the art. If you belong to a club or group that does any sort of volunteer work, you may be able to gain entrance into fairs or festivals by volunteering a few hours’ work at your group’s stand.
Frugal living doesn’t mean you have to sit at home every weekend feeling self-righteously bored. All it means is learning to live within your means, but you won’t stick with it if it cuts out all the fun in your life. So don’t let your lack of money to spend get in the way of having a good time; just commit a little energy to finding your fun for free and you’ll find your schedule fills up quicker than you ever thought.
