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I recently came across an awesome blog that got me thinking… The blog post was titled “56 Things to do Instead of Spending Money” and it provides readers with just that! After mulling it over I felt
inspired to create my own Top 5 Fabulous, Frugal and Free Activities for the New Year.
So, here we go!

1.       Build a snow fort

If you’re not from the Midwest perhaps you can disregard this suggestion… And if you’re not from the Midwest you’re probably more than happy to do just that! But if there is one thing a real Minnesotan knows it’s hot dish and snow forts! I think the only thing better than building snow forts with your friends in 3^rd grade is building snow forts with your friends in your 20’s! A winter wonderland is the perfect combination of friend time, outdoor activity and LOTS of exercise. So grab your snow pants, put on an extra pair of socks and bring your shovel; this winter is gunna be fun!

2.       Date night at home

I’ve been dying to try out a cooking class and think it would be such an awesome date idea, but holy moly are they pricey! So, I’m bringin’ it in-house and only paying for the food I would buy at the grocery store anyway. There are TONS of awesome [free] recipe ideas online that give really great instructions. Pick up your beverage of choice, light a candle, and get creative. Plus, now you can redbox that movie you never made it to the theaters to see (or those you just want to see again – the new Batman movie… so good.) and your popcorn has unlimited refills…

3.       Host a clothing swap

Full disclosure, I’ve never tried to host or even attend a clothing swap before but I am VERY interested in giving it a shot.  TLC offers some good tips for throwing this kind of party. It seems like such a fun way to get rid of some unused treasures and beef up your wardrobe all at the same time…without spending a nickle. If you have done a clothing swap before I’d love to hear your tips, tricks and suggestions. For example, my fear is bringing good-quality items and not finding anything that I want in exchange… Help?

4.       Game night

I personally do not own ONE board game… yes, yes, I know…people like me should be banished. Seriously, I LOVE BOARD GAMES! One of many great thing about my friends is that they too love board games. So, instead of going out and buying my own I just rely on my friends’ stashes. Luckily, there IS a frugal back up plan: the game section of your local Goodwill. They have tons of games that are like-new and a fraction of the price. Just double check that it has all the pieces!

5.       Take a walk

I live in Minneapolis, I work in Minneapolis, I hang out with friends in Minneapolis, yet I still forget how beautiful this city it is until I go on a walk or run. Whichever city you get to call home, whether it’s a small town or a big city, I bet you too could benefit from taking a step back to enjoy the many things that place has to offer. Try taking a different path, bringing along a friend, or my favorite suggestion: borrow a puppy! A 30-minute walk is an awesome way to experience your city in a new way. Plus, it’s great exercise (roughly 100 calories per mile!). My best friend, Claire, and I make it a weekly adventure to walk about 4 miles around our city… we even bring hand weights.  So what are you waiting for? Lace up those tennies and take a walk!

Got an awesome activity you think should be on the Top 5 Fabulous, Free and Frugal Activities for the New Year? Send them in, I’d love to hear what you do to still have fun as a frugalista!