Big cities offer a plethora of outdoor entertainment options, including concerts and movies in public parks and other outdoor venues. These events provide a fun and budget-friendly way to enjoy music, films, and community spirit under the open sky. Here’s how to make the most of outdoor concerts and movies while living frugally in a big city.
1. Check the City’s Event Calendar
Many big cities host outdoor concerts and movie screenings throughout the year, especially during the warmer months. Check your city’s event calendar or website to find upcoming outdoor events.
Resources:
- City Websites: Visit your city’s official website for information on outdoor events and entertainment.
- Event Listing Websites: Check event listing websites like Eventbrite or Meetup for outdoor concert and movie listings.
2. Attend Free Events
Cities often host free outdoor concerts and movie screenings as part of their summer or cultural programming. These events are open to the public and can be a great way to enjoy entertainment without spending a dime.
Tips:
- Parks and Recreation Departments: Check with your city’s parks and recreation department for information on free outdoor events.
- Community Organizations: Follow local community organizations on social media for updates on free events they may be hosting.
3. Pack Your Own Snacks and Drinks
One of the benefits of outdoor concerts and movies is that you can bring your own snacks and drinks, saving you money compared to buying concessions at a traditional venue.
Ideas:
- Picnic Foods: Pack sandwiches, fruit, cheese, and other easy-to-eat picnic foods.
- Reusable Water Bottles: Bring refillable water bottles to stay hydrated without spending money on bottled drinks.
- Popcorn and Snacks: Make your own popcorn or snacks at home to enjoy during the movie.
4. Bring Your Own Seating
Outdoor events often require attendees to bring their own seating, such as blankets or lawn chairs. By bringing your own seating, you can ensure you have a comfortable spot to enjoy the show without having to rent or buy chairs.
Suggestions:
- Picnic Blankets: Bring a large picnic blanket or beach towel to sit on.
- Folding Chairs: Invest in lightweight, portable folding chairs for extra comfort.
- Cushions or Pillows: Bring cushions or pillows for added comfort, especially for longer events.
5. Arrive Early for Prime Seating
For popular outdoor events, it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a prime seating spot. This is especially true for concerts and movie screenings with limited space or seating areas.
Tips:
- Check Event Details: Find out if seating is first-come, first-served or if there are designated seating areas.
- Plan Ahead: Arrive early to allow time to find parking and settle in before the event starts.
