Fun with friends: 12 budget-friendly ideas for a great time

Who says hanging out with friends has to be expensive? With these budget-friendly ideas, you and your crew can have a blast without breaking the bank. Let's dive in.

Host a movie night potluck

Gather your friends and have each bring their favorite movie and a dish to share. Not only will you have fun watching movies, but you'll also get to try different homemade dishes.

Explore the outdoors

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Get some fresh air and explore the outdoors with your friends. Go for a hike, hit the beach, or picnic in the park. All these activities are usually free and provide the perfect opportunity for quality time and making new memories.

Have a game night

Game nights are a classic way to have fun with friends without spending much money. Break out your favorite board games or try new ones, have some snacks, and let the friendly competition begin.

Get creative with DIY crafts

DIY projects are not only budget-friendly but also loads of fun. Get together with your friends and try making something new, whether painting, knitting, or DIY home decor. Plus, you'll have a cool piece to take home afterward.

Check out local events

Keep an eye out for free or inexpensive events in your city. Whether it's a street festival, a concert in the park, or an art exhibit, these events offer a great opportunity to have fun with friends on a budget.

Have a great bake-off

Gather your friends and make your own Great British Baking Show. Each person can bring ingredients, and you can all try making new recipes together. Up the ante and make it a taste-test competition!

Host a book club

If you and your friends love reading, why not start a book club? You can take turns choosing books to read and have lively discussions over snacks and drinks. It's a great way to bond with friends while indulging your love for literature.

Visit free museums or galleries

Many museums and galleries offer free admission or discounted days. Feed your minds and souls together. Check for free evening events, too. Many museums offer free or low-cost concert series and other events for a free family night out.

Host a clothing swap

Instead of buying new clothes, host a clothing swap with friends to refresh your wardrobe for free. 

Volunteer together

Spend time with your friends while giving back to the community by volunteering at a local organization or charity. It's a rewarding and budget-friendly way to connect for a cause.

It’s all about the company

Having fun with friends doesn't have to be expensive. With these budget-friendly ideas, you can have a fabulous time without emptying your wallet. So gather your friends and start planning your next hang.

Want more budget-friendly tips and tricks for everyday life? Check out Greenlight Learning Center for helpful resources on all things family, finance, and fun.