I don’t know about you guys, but now that the holiday season has come to an end, it’s time to give my bank account some much needed rest. I know I’m not alone when I say I need some cost-effective activities to do this month that don’t involve spending money—and are fun! While it can be difficult to find free things to do with the family that are actually enjoyable, I came up with this list of five things you can do, both indoors and outdoors this month.
1. Go Hiking
Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to be more active? Well here’s a good way to be both active and frugal! Pack yourself a nice backpack full of water and snacks, and head to your nearest hiking trail with the family. Hiking is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamin D while also taking in scenic views and possible wildlife.
2. Visit the Farmer’s Market
No matter where you live, there’s usually a farmer’s market you can visit with the family. Some colder states even do indoor farmer’s markets during the winter months. For example, in our hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, the North Union Farmers Market has both indoor and outdoor locations listed on their website. In fact, Whoa Dough occasionally does pop-ups at these markets and will even give out free bars to the kids! Farmer’s markets are a great place to indulge in locally owned products. You can support small businesses and enjoy fresh products that you likely would not be able to find otherwise.
3. Take a Bike Ride
Another great way to fulfill your New Year's resolution while also enjoying the outdoors is to go on a family bike ride. Whether you go riding around town or find yourself riding along a trail, biking is a fantastic way to stay busy on a budget. Not to mention, you have the added benefit of reducing your carbon footprint for the day! Don’t forget to pack snacks for the ride—Whoa Dough is the perfect on-the-go snack for long bike rides. Kid approved, too!
4. Movie Night + Baking
Watching a movie is a simple way to spend time with the family. Plus, it’s relaxing and free, which is ideal after dealing with the stress of the holidays. One thing you could do is host a fun and friendly baking competition with the family to see who gets to pick the movie. That way you’ll have treats for the movie! But don’t forget the popcorn. Everyone could pick their favorite cookie recipe and add their own twist to it like more chocolate chips or sprinkles. Like we always say, who doesn’t love cookie dough?
5. Go for a Picnic
Want to spend more time outside but don’t want to break a sweat? Well, a picnic is the perfect way to soak up the sun while remaining relaxed. Pack a basket with some food (sandwiches, fruit, and veggies don’t require utensils), blankets, and games (Go Fish was always fun as a kid) and find the perfect spot to enjoy your delicious spread with the family. Don’t forget to pack some dessert as well—Whoa Dough bars are the perfect picnic-friendly dessert as they are easy to store and eat. Lastly, bring some entertainment with you! Pack a frisbee or football to toss with the family as well as a speaker so you can listen to some tunes.
Hopefully one or more of these activities sound fun for you and your family. We know that recovering from the holidays can be difficult, and being able to still provide entertainment to your family is important. Even if you choose not to do any of the above activities, all that matters is that you spend time together as a family and create memories that will last a lifetime!
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