Affordable Valentine's Day Activities

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

14 Feb 2009 08:26 AM

With the recession hitting families hard right now, your Valentine's Day may not include the typical array of roses, balloons, and heart-shaped boxes of chocolates. In fact, a recent Consumer Reports poll found that about 50 percent of people with partners plan to spend less money on Valentine's Day this year. But, instead of making this a black Saturday, why not paint the town red by partaking in these inexpensive family-friendly activities:

CHEAP EATS

Who said you have to spend Valentine's Day sipping on pricey champagne and indulging in expensive steak and lobster combos to make it memorable? If you're pinching pennies, consider heading to White Castle on Valentine's Day. The fast food chain, which made the "Slyder Burger" famous, is accepting Love Day reservations at franchises across the country. For one day only, you and your love muffin can dine at booths topped with tablecloths, flowers and other fancy V-Day decorations. Despite the classy decor, the menu of greasy onion rings and ground beef specialties remains unchanged.

CHEAP TREATS

Budget Movies: If you can't afford to see a first-run flick, then gather the clan and hit the budget cinema for a big-screen Valentine's Day treat.

Rentals: You can save even more dough by checking out sappy love stories from the video store, then cuddling up on the couch with your special someone.

Zoos and Museums: Spend the day with the kids checking out the birds and the bees. Select zoos and museums across the country are offering Valentine's Day deals for families who want to go wild sharing the love among the animals and archives.

Crafts and Cookies: If you have young children, then consider spending the day indoors making homemade cards and cookies.

Explore: Pile into the family car and take a drive to a neighboring city that interests you. You can save money by packing a picnic lunch and bringing along your bikes. Park your car at a local recreation area and explore the city on two wheels.

Related Articles:

Ways to Keep the Kids Busy on Valentine's Day

Homemade Valentine's Decorations

Simple Valentine's Day Projects for the Entire Family

Easy Last-Minute Valentine Projects

Fun Valentine's Day Projects for Kids

Affordable Valentine's Crafts

Simple Valentine Crafts for Preschoolers

Spending Valentine's Day At HOME

Valentine's Day is Coming Soon

Hosting a Valentine's Day Fondue Party

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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