August has a way of making us feel like we need to squeeze in all the things before summer disappears. Which can be a little dangerous for the budget. But the best summer memories usually don’t come from expensive outings or packed schedules. Often your kids will remember the little moments, the summer adventures that don’t cost a thing. Here are 30 fun things to do in August when you want to enjoy every last bit of summer without spending money.
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30 Things to Do in August that Don’t Cost a Thing
I can cook, and I love being the in the kitchen. I used to have a catering business, so people paid me to make food for them. Miss O is an adventurous eater and is good with most things I create for dinner.
But the most complements I got for a meal?
When I served Kraft Dinner.
The kid could not stop raving over it.
“Mom, remember when you made that really amazing dinner?! You are such a good cook!!”
She was talking about the K.D.
Anyways, it’s not always the most elaborate things you buy them or make them or take them to. Kids remember the simple things.
And just like J. Lo’s love, these August activities don’t cost a thing.
30 Things to Do Instead of Spending Money This August
Have fun with your kids before they go back to school, without spending any money.
1. Frugal things to do in August: Have a backyard movie night
Grab blankets, pillows, and snacks you already have at home and turn your backyard into a cozy outdoor theater.
You don’t need an elaborate setup for this:
A laptop, projector, or even just a blanket fort can make it feel special.
Here are 50 family movie ideas, and some fall movie ideas if you’re ready for that!
2. Free things to do in August: Go on a sunset walk
August evenings are made for slow walks when the air cools down and the sun starts to dip.
Explore a new neighborhood, walking trail, or park and make it a simple summer tradition.
I’ve been surprised by different neighborhoods in our city. They can be only 15 or 20 minutes away from where we live, but can feel so different.
3. Have a picnic with food from your pantry
Skip the restaurant and pack a picnic using what you already have. Sandwiches, fruit, snacks, and a homemade drink can turn an ordinary meal into a mini adventure.
4. Cheap things to do in August: Visit your local library
Libraries are summer goldmines. Browse new books, borrow movies, join a free event, or check out passes for local attractions if your library offers them.
My daughter has been doing the summer reading program for several years now, basically a way to encourage kids to keep reading over the summer.
For every five days they read, they get a ballot to enter for prizes throughout the summer. She has one new books and swimming passes in previous summers, and this summer she is hoping for the baseball tickets prize. 🙂
5. Pick berries or garden produce
Visit a local garden, pick from your own backyard, or check out community harvest programs. Fresh produce is one of summer’s best perks, and it can be a fun activity too.
6. Have a no-spend challenge day
Choose one day where you spend absolutely nothing. Make meals at home, find free entertainment, enjoy nature, and see how creative you can get.
Related posts:
- These 7 Summer Spending Rules Could Save You $1,000+
- 30 No-Spend November Ideas to Save Money Before the Holidays
7. Try a new walking trail
Explore a nearby park, nature reserve, or walking path you’ve never visited. Bring water, snacks, and a camera.
8. Have a water day at home
You don’t need an expensive water park to cool off. Set up sprinklers, fill a kiddie pool, have a water balloon game, or simply run through the sprinkler like a kid again.
We just got a big slip-n-slide and I’m looking forward to setting it up for Miss O.
9. Make homemade popsicles
Use fruit, juice, yogurt, or smoothie leftovers to create your own frozen treats. It’s a fun kitchen activity and a cheaper alternative to store-bought desserts.
Try these 10 summer dessert recipes that are cheap and quick.
10. Host a backyard potluck
Invite friends or neighbors and ask everyone to bring something. Sharing a meal outdoors is one of the easiest ways to create summer memories without a big bill.
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11. Have a family game tournament
Pull out board games, cards, puzzles, or games you already own. Add silly prizes for extra fun.
My daughter and I just picked up this exact cribbage set so she can teach me how to play crib. 🙂
Her grade 4 teacher taught all the kids how to play at the end of the year, as a fun way to do math in June when attentions are waning.
12. Go stargazing
August evenings are perfect for looking at the night sky. Grab blankets, head outside, and see what constellations you can spot.
13. Make a summer scrapbook
Print a few photos, collect little memories, or create a digital album of your favorite summer moments.
14. Explore free local events
Check your city’s website, library calendar, and community groups for free concerts, festivals, outdoor movies, and family activities.
15. Have a themed dinner night
Pick a theme and use what you already have. Try a taco night, breakfast-for-dinner, picnic dinner, or “make your own pizza” night.
16. Rearrange a room
Give your home a fresh feeling without buying anything. Move furniture, switch décor between rooms, or create a cozy reading corner.
17. Start a summer recipe challenge
Choose ingredients you already have and challenge yourself to make something new. It’s a fun way to avoid spending money on takeout.
18. Visit a farmers market just to browse
You don’t have to buy anything. Enjoy the atmosphere, look at seasonal produce, listen to music, and get inspiration for meals at home.
We did this recently at our favorite farmers market. Usually I buy a lot when we go, from snacks and meals, to produce and plants. But I had just spent a lot that week and our fridge was already full.
We went to people watch and listen to music (we did buy one fresh-squeezed lemonade!)
19. Have a backyard camping night
Set up a tent, sleeping bags, or even a blanket fort. Add snacks and stories for a simple adventure close to home.
20. Make homemade lemonade or iced tea
Turn a regular afternoon into a summer treat with a homemade drink using inexpensive ingredients you already have.
21. Declutter and sell unused items
A no-spend day can actually become a money-making day. Clean out closets, list items online, and turn clutter into cash.
Read this post to find out the best places to sell your items online.
22. Take a photo scavenger hunt
Create a list of things to find and photograph: a colorful flower, a funny sign, a bird, a favorite spot, or something you’ve never noticed before.
23. Try a DIY craft using supplies you already own
Use leftover fabric, paper, paint, jars, or craft supplies to create something fun without buying new materials.
It’s amazing how many things kids can make out of paper towel rolls.
24. Make a summer bucket list jar
Write down simple ideas on slips of paper and pick one whenever you’re bored. It’s an easy way to keep summer fun going.
Or use the summer bucket list ideas right here. 🙂
25. Free things to do in August: Have a clothes swap
Trade gently used clothes, books, toys, or household items with friends or family. Everyone gets something new-to-them without spending money.
26. Spend a day at the beach or park
Pack your own snacks, bring towels, and enjoy a full day outdoors for little to no cost.
27. Learn something new for free
Try a free online class, learn a new recipe, watch tutorials, practice photography, or pick up a hobby using resources you already have.
28. Have a “tourist in your own town” day
Visit places you’ve never explored nearby. Check out local landmarks, trails, murals, or historic spots you usually drive past.
29. Make a summer memory jar
Write down funny moments, favorite memories, and little things you’re grateful for. Read them together at the end of summer.
I love this memory jar to record your summer memories with your family.
30. Plan a cozy end-of-summer celebration
Celebrate the season with what you already have. Make a special meal, play music, watch old photos, or have a backyard gathering to enjoy the final days of summer.
Enjoy your August! Share your fun ideas of things to do in August in the comments. 🙂
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