10 Ways to Save Money On Entertainment

In today's economy, saving money can be a pretty nifty thing. For some, living frugally and saving money is a natural thing to do and something they've always done. For others, being frugal is an entirely new concept and some people have no idea where to begin. Well, if you're one of those people, start here. This is part seven in a series of money saving tips -- for more tips on saving even more money, see the rest of Isabella Snow's Frugal Living Series.

1. Cook dinner for your date.

Got a date? Got no cash? Cook dinner for her at your place! (Or, bring groceries to her place and do it there.) I don't know any woman who wouldn't be absolutely flattered by this gesture.

2. Stay in and watch a DVD.

Finished dinner and looking for something to do? You don't have to go out every single time you have a date. Some women (like me) don't enjoy clubs or loud places. Stay in and watch a sexy DVD. She'll be snuggling up to you in no time.

3. Download a song, not an album.

If you want new music on your iPod, buy the song you want, instead of 20 you don't actually like.

4. Go to a matinee or discount theater.

Sometimes you really just need to see a film on the big screen. There are lots of Dollar Cinemas in the US, and many of them are new and modern. I used to go them all the time, they were fantastic. Or, if you really don't want to wait to see film, catch a matinee or go to the theater on a discount day. And don't spend $20 on soda and popcorn.

5. Rent your DVDs from Netflix

This is probably the cheapest option available and you can even watch many of these films online. You don't have to go to the shop, you don't have to stand in line and you don't have to pay a fortune to rent an overpriced DVD.

6. Host a potluck party.

Spending time with people you love is important -- where you spend that time is less so. Instead of going out to a big restaurant, host a pot-luck party at your place. (You can take turns!) This takes the financial burden off the host while providing a fun atmosphere for spending time with friends.

7. Host game night.

This can be done with friends or just with family, of course. Get some old fashioned games and play them. Pictionary, Uno, Twister, anything you like. You will have a fantastic time with your friends and it won't cost you anything.

8. Go bowling with a group.

This will cost next to nothing if you do it with a large group. Have teams and compete! It will be fun!

9. Read a book.

Bored? Nothing to do? Read a book!

10. Get your books from the library or get the e-version.

Most big authors (and loads of lesser knowns) have ebook versions of their stories. These cost about 1/2 of the print version. But if you really want to read the print version, just get it from the library for free!