The fact that it’s more frugal than dinner out is just a bonus at this point, but cooking from home is always a great way to save money on date night. However, there’s something to be said for getting away and enjoying an evening out.

Here are 3 great ways to go out for dinner for less:

Begin at the Beginning

You don’t have to order a whole meal, to enjoy a dining experience. The hubby and I actually go out often, just for an appetizer or two. We can share an appetizer spread for far less than the cost of two dinner entrees.

Daywalker

Who says you can’t celebrate Valentine’s Day during, you know, the daytime? A lunch date can make for significant savings, especially if your children are in school. It eliminates the need for a babysitter. Plus, many restaurants offer lunch menus at a discount.

Just Desserts

I don’t think there’s anything more sexy than sharing a dessert with the hubby. Enjoy a meal at home, then linger over a special dessert or after dinner drinks. It’s an inexpensive way to snag a small part of the dining experience.

Related, on Babble.com: 14 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day Without Spending a Dime

Photo Credit: Flickr

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Sure, the library also has DVDs, audio books and eBooks, but it also opens a world of opportunity inside its doors. Most libraries have special events throughout the week for even more value. Some events are free, while others may have a fee attached. Check with your local branch for details on programs, classes, and expert advice.

Here are a few opportunities available at public libraries:

• Free Internet Access: The library is my go to place to work on school breaks. I can use the free wifi, while the kids read, join clubs or play in the children’s section. It’s also where I went when the air went out this summer, and I still needed to be on the computer. Or, the first place I think of when the DSL goes out at home.
• Tax Forms & Assistance: Since the IRS is no longer mailing tax forms, you can find them, as always, at your local library. Many branches area also offering tax assistance or classes.
• Computer Skills Classes: Gain valuable skills for work or personal use through computer skills classes at your local library. My own library offers basic skills like office programs, email and social media as well as advanced classes for those who need a little more information.
• Fun & Games: Libraries are also a great source of family fun & entertainment. We’ve been to animal entertainers, meet the author nights, craft days, and special events. The children’s department also has Legos, Wedgits and computers just for kids.
• Clubs & Social Events: Book clubs are a natural fit for the library. Ours also has a knitting club, euchre club, teen clubs, and various kids’ clubs based on special interests. My girls seem to have outgrown the Webkinz Club, but we’ll keep an eye on what’s next.
• Story Hour: I’ve been going to the library since my teen was just a little tyke. We’ve graduated through baby stories, toddler time and preschool story hour. The school aged story hour features a related craft each week.
• Homeschool Classes: Our library has recently started offering several classes for homeschool families. I’ve seen Spanish, creative writing, art, and science in the last couple years. It’s a great resource for those who want additional skills for their educational choice.

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Christmas is the best time to stockup on linens—if you use tablecloths, napkins and decorative table runners all year as we do, you’ll find awesome prices on “holiday” packages. Most of them are not Christmas specific so keep an eye out for your favorite sizes. This is also a great time to buy items that are designed as gifts—watch for gift-boxed items such as gloves, electronics and toys. You’ll also notice a lot of “stocking stuffers” that can be used for Easter baskets, party favors and chore rewards. Look for toys, beauty products and trinkets free of snowflakes, holly and Christmas designs.

Beyond the holiday aisles, markdowns are also happening throughout the stores. Retailers keep overstock of electronics and toys for the holiday shopping season. At Target, there is already an entire aisle of 30% off toys, every end cap is stocked with clearance and you’ll find more toy markdowns up every aisle. My oldest has a birthday in just over a week so I used to do all my shopping for her during the first week of January. Of course, she has moved beyond toys as she turns 14 but winter clothing is being clearanced already as well!

If you venture out, I’d love to hear about your bargains. For the last few years, I’ve set about to increase our Christmas music collection and with Amazon’s 25 Days of Free, I think we’re all set there. I think this year’s splurge will be on new outdoor lights. It’s been awhile since we’ve gotten our outdoor lights up so I’m hoping a couple new pieces will inspire me next season. Happy shopping!

Originally published 12/29/09

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And, so I’m off in search of another perfect gift. While I hope to finish today, and steer clear of stores tomorrow, it is nice to know there are store hours on Christmas Eve just in case.

I know I’ll come up with something awesome for my sis, but occasionally I’ve had to go with a last resort item, as we come down to the wire.

Here are several gifts you can purchase all the way up to Christmas Day:

• Magazine subscriptions: Find deals at Amazon, then wrap the current issue with your subscription note. Check the magazine rack at the nearest convenience store, for super last minute options!
• Daily Deals: Give the gift of time with a ticket package, family fun attraction or restaurant deal from Groupon, EverSave and more.
• Gift Cards & Cash: It may not be very personal, but you can get cash at the ATM and gift cards at Walgreens (open on Christmas Day). At least you can choose one of these fun ways to package money!
• Movie Tickets: Order & print online at any time. Plus, Get 20% off $25 in movie tickets when you use your Visa Signature card.

Fess up—who is still left on your list?

Photo Credit: Flickr

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