Cheap Dating

As a college student or recent graduate often we do not have much money for fun yet who wants to stay home all weekend? There are many free and cheap fun activities if you know where and how to look for them. For example during the winter in buffalo there is a free ice skating rink (it cost $3 if you need to rent skates) which we discovered because the rink is near our credit union and we checked the prices out. Yes, sometimes the hours are not the best but it is still a fun afternoon event. Also, you can sign up for groupon (www.groupon.com/) or living social (subscribe.livingsocial.com/) to get discounted meals or events. Remember to sign up for upromise and get cash back if you buy anything from groupon. Also, check http://www.restaurant.com/ to see if any restaurants you like are on there. Then google restaurant.com/ and coupon code to get it for even cheaper.

Keep in mind, though, you don't have to go out for fun. Invite people over for a small party, a barbeque in the summer or a potluck in winter. It might cost a bit but not as much as going out the bar and others might like the idea and start having parties at their places. One of the best ways to meet people is through your friends. And cooking with a boyfriend or girlfriend can be fun as well. You can teach other how to make new meals and show off a bit at the same time.

Also, check out if your city or nearby cities has free concerts. I saw smashmouth in concert for free at the San Jose Concert in Park Series. It is a great way to hear new bands and maybe listen to some old favorites. Check with the universities in the area, they often have events that can be fun to go to as well. Some cost money, but often they are subsidized if you are a student. At the State University at Buffalo my husband and I saw the former prime minister of England, Tony Blair, speak for free as students of the university.

Does anyone have any other ideas for cheap dating or other frugal fun?