Entertainment budgets in today’s economy are getting lower as prices for everything get higher. Couples and families need parkto find innovative way to fight back restlessness without spending much money.

Here are 5 free ideas you can try out this weekend. Let me know what happens.

Have a Game Night

While board games are slightly pricey, they can provide hours and years worth of fun for $20 or less. Stick with the classics and games that everyone likes to play. You may even have a few stored in the back of the closet. Make sure you have a few games that are age appropriate for the whole family’s participation. During the warm weather, take your games outside to the picnic table. Serve popcorn and light finger foods and have a blast.

Host a Potluck Dinner

Busy lives tend to neglect friendships. Call up a few friends or extended family and ask them to bring their favorite dish. Serve ice water or iced tea instead of expensive sodas. Cook hotdogs and burgers to keep it simple and compliment the other dishes from your guests. If room permits, encourage a game of volleyball or old-school tag.

Visit the Library

Stock up on this summer’s reading list for your kids and grab some novels for yourself. Establish time everyday when everyone reads. Little ones can be read to during that time. The library probably also offers free or cheap movie rentals. Pick up a good family flick or an old favorite and host a movie night in the living room, complete with hot butter on the popcorn.

Picnic at the Park

While your family may be eating the same old peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, changing up the scenery can make all of the difference. Bring a Frisbee or a ball for entertainment afterwards.

Bury a Time Capsule

There is no time like the present to capture your family’s spirit. During the week, ask your family to think about the items they would like to put into the capsule and have everyone pen notes to themselves for the future. Find an old cigar box or sturdy shoe box to place the items in. On the weekend, when you are ready to bury the box, indulge in a ceremony where everyone can say something about their family and contribution to the time capsule.

Fun can be free and there are unlimited possibilities to explore on your own. Don’t let a tight budget spoil your family’s fun. It is not a healthy for anyone.