12 Genius Weeks of Summer Fun on a Budget
Looking for ways to have fun this summer? The good news is you don’t need to spend a lot to have a great summer. With a little creativity, your family can enjoy weeks of fun without breaking the bank.
Here’s a simple plan with one fun activity for each of the next 12 weeks. These ideas are easy to do, don’t cost much, and are perfect for families, kids, or teens.
Whether you stay close to home or get out around town, each week brings something new to try. It’s all about making memories without stretching your budget. Use this list to keep things fun and affordable all season long.
Week 1: Backyard camping
Set up a tent in the backyard and bring out some flashlights. Use sleeping bags or even just blankets. Make simple snacks like sandwiches or trail mix. Tell stories or play cards once it gets dark.
This is a cheap way to have fun without leaving home. It’s also a good way for kids to try camping for the first time. No travel or gear needed, just time together.
To learn more: 25 Free Activities for Kids To Try this Summer
Week 2: DIY tie-dye t-shirts
Grab some old white shirts and a cheap tie-dye kit from the store. Set up outside and let everyone make their own designs. It’s messy, fun, and doesn’t cost much.
You’ll end up with shirts that are fun to wear and show off. This is a good hands-on project for kids and teens. It’s one of those cheap, fun summer activities for family or friends.
To learn more: 15 Fun Things to Do this Weekend That Won’t Break the Bank
Week 3: Library scavenger hunt
Head to the library and make a list of books or clues to find. Look for silly book titles, a book about animals, or a comic book. It makes going to the library more like a game.
Most libraries are free, so this costs nothing. It’s also a fun way to get kids reading without making it feel like homework. Great way to spend time together and keep minds active.
To learn more: Top 15 Ideas of Productive Things to Do When Broke
Week 4: Picnic at a local park
Pack a simple lunch from what’s already at home. Bring a blanket, snacks, and something to drink. Head to a nearby park and pick a quiet spot. Bring a ball or board game to make it last longer.
Eating outside makes lunch feel special. This is a fun activity for the family that costs very little.
To learn more: 15 Budget Tips to Boost Your Savings This Summer
Week 5: Water balloon games
Fill up some water balloons and set up a few games. Try balloon toss, tag, or a simple race. The supplies are cheap and can be found at most dollar stores. It’s a good way to get kids moving and laughing.
No fancy gear or big plans needed. This is great for affordable summer vacation fun at home.
To learn more: 10 Affordable Ways to Have Fun This Summer
Week 6: Free museum day
Look up when local museums offer free days. Plan ahead and pack snacks to avoid spending money there. Museums give kids something new to look at and talk about. It’s also a quiet break from screens.
You don’t need to stay all day to make it fun. This is one of the best affordable summer vacation activities.
To learn more: 105 Fun Things To Do With No Money
Week 7: Family movie night at home
Pick a movie everyone likes and make some popcorn. Use blankets and pillows to build a cozy spot in the living room. Let kids vote on what to watch next time.
You don’t need to buy anything—just use what you already have. It’s a simple way to enjoy time together without spending money. This is a fun activity for families who want to keep it low-cost.
To learn more:
Week 8: Bike ride adventure
Plan a ride around the block or to a nearby path. Bring water and snacks in a backpack. Take breaks and stop to look around. It’s free, easy, and keeps kids active.
You don’t need a fancy bike or a long route. Just look for fun places to stop and rest along the way or catch a few geocaches. This is a great way to enjoy cheap, fun summer activities for the family.
To learn more: Top Money Saving Hacks to Travel Cheap in Summer
Week 9: Visit a local farmers market
Walk around and check out the fresh produce and homemade goods. Give kids a few dollars to pick something small. Many stands offer samples or free sights to enjoy.
Farmer’s markets are fun to talk to the sellers and see how things are made. This is a great low-cost way to spend a weekend morning. A fun activity for families that supports local folks, too.
To learn more: 20 Budget-Friendly Summer Getaways to Enjoy
Week 10: Sidewalk chalk art contest
Grab a box of chalk and pick a spot on the sidewalk or driveway. Let everyone draw something and pick a winner. You can have themes or just let people be creative.
Chalk is cheap and easy to find. It washes away, so kids can do it again and again. This is a good, low-cost way to have fun outside.
To learn more:
Week 11: Make homemade popsicles
Mix juice, yogurt, or fruit and pour it into molds or small cups. Add a stick and freeze them overnight. Let kids help with pouring and mixing.
It’s cheaper than buying popsicles from the store. You can make them as healthy or fun as you want. A fun summer vacation activity that also makes a cool snack.
To learn more: What Should I Do Today? 77 Fun Things to Do Right Now
Week 12: Neighborhood talent show
Set up a small stage in a yard or driveway. Let kids sing, dance, or tell jokes. Invite neighbors or family to watch. You don’t need anything fancy—just a speaker or even a phone for music.
This is a fun way for kids to feel proud and show what they can do. It’s a free event that brings people together.
To learn more: 62 Fun Things to do with Friends: Activities for Friends To Do
Have fun all week with your family without going broke
You don’t need a big budget to make the next 12 weeks full of fun. With one easy activity each week, there’s always something to look forward to! This plan keeps things simple, fun, and affordable for everyone.
No more wondering what to do or spending money just to stay busy. Each idea helps you make real memories without the stress of planning or high costs.
If you’re ready to keep the fun going and stay on budget, follow Money Bliss for more smart ways to enjoy every week without overspending.
To learn more: 14 Fun Budget-Friendly Activities to Do with Your Family
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