So you got canned and are now facing a lack of funding for the more enjoyable things in life. Sure, you may have had to cancel your Netflix and cable subscriptions, but look on the bright side — you now have fewer distractions to keep you from discovering more creative and less costly ways to appreciate your new abundance of free time. Here are just a few ways that you can have some fun without assaulting your wallet.
1. Keyword search: Free. Search local newspapers, magazines and the Web for free events in your area, and bring a friend! April is National Poetry Month — celebrate by attending a reading! For those of you in the Indianapolis area, Charles Simic, last year’s Poet Laureate, will give a free, public reading at Butler University on April 21.
2. Revive game night. Bring your copy of Scrabble or Trivial Pursuit out of retirement, call your friends, and get playing!
3. Seaweed soiree. Invite your nearest and dearest to help you make Sushi dinner! For around $45 you can roll enough seaweed to feed about 8 people - it’s much less expensive than dining out, and much more fun!
4. Get Lost. The fact that you cancelled your cable is no excuse for missing out on this (or another) primetime network show. Host a Lost party and use the commercial breaks to discuss the multitude of questions you will undoubtedly have just five minutes into the show.
5. Four squares. Buy some chalk and a kickball, go take advantage of the spring weather, and have yourself a four square tournament. I am not even kidding. And while you’re taking a break from the ball bouncing fun, give that sidewalk some art!
6. Sing for your life. It’s Karaoke time — grab some friends and find a bar that has it! If you have access to play it, Singstar is the karaoke option of preference for those who like to belt out tunes in their usual tone-deaf style without a huge crowd present. Either way, you’re sure to have a good time.
7. Get bikini ready. Feel more confident in your one or two-piece swimsuit this summer and use getting canned as an excuse to get in shape. Taking a jog is always free!
8. Don’t skimp on the Holidays. Get creative and plan an adult-friendly activity for an upcoming holiday. Recently, my roommates and I hosted an adult Easter egg hunt — the eggs were filled with hilarious dares and, of course, candy! You’re never too old for candy.
