Go out earlier in the day
The cost of entertainment can be cut down simply by going out at a different time. Most people have work schedules that do not permit them to get their entertainment earlier in the day, and businesses know this, and capitalize on it. So, if you have the flexibility in your schedule, seek your entertainment at earlier hours, and reap the benefits:
The following are places you can save by going out earlier:
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Restaurant meals: The lunch prices on menus at restaurants are consistently a few dollars cheaper than the dinner prices, and in some restaurants they are even more than that. So, by going out to lunch rather than dinner, or by going out to eat before the dinner menu is put out at 4 (on average) you are going to save yourself about 22% on your ticket price. 20% because the lunch check average is about 20% less, and 2% in tip that is not paid out. This 20% can be instantly put in your cash reserve. You still get to eat out, you still get service, you still get the benefits of a meal, but at a lower price.
Movie prices: Movie theaters often have a matinee price, a weekday price, and a weekend price. The matinee price is usually about 30% less than the weekday price, and 40% less than the weekend price. So, if you want to see a movie that is in theaters, consider going before 5. If it is a Saturday, this will save you quite a bit on the movie ticket price. Of course, concessions are going to cost the same, but the savings from the ticket price can go directly into your cash reserve.
Other activities: Many activities offer discounted rates before 5. For example, if you were to go bowling, you could get an hour lane rental for about 20% off the evening prices, and 30% off the weekend prices. Or, some places offer other benefits. Instead of charging less for the lane, you may get "free" bowling shoe rentals before 5, or something similar. The same holds true for miniature golf etc.
In general, participating in an entertainment activity before 5, will save you about 20% of the normal price, except on weekends. So, when possible go out a little earlier, and put the savings into your cash reserve.
Other benefits: In addition to the money savings, other benefits come from going out earlier in the day, including that of having fewer people out, so you get better seats in the theater, wait in shorter lines, or get better service. So, it can be even more enjoyable entertainment then going out later in the evening and doing the same exact thing.
