"In an era where I’m debating whether or not I should add eggs to my grocery cart, it’s safe to say I don’t have tons of “fun money” to throw around. It feels like every time I leave my house, I somehow end up spending money, but I’m committed to turning things around. Just because I’m trying to be fiscally responsible doesn’t mean I have to say no to every plan. I just have to get a little more creative with what exactly those plans are. Instead of locking myself inside so I don’t blow my budget when Friday rolls around, I’m using no-spend weekends to keep myself in check. It’s a realistic challenge where you commit to not purchasing anything for a weekend. But don’t worry—this doesn’t mean your weekend has to be boring. Here are 14 completely free things to do this weekend that are actually fun.
1. Check out a book from the library
As fun as it is to browse through a bookshop, it’s easy to forget that you can often find the exact same books for free at your local library. The library has the same cozy, charming vibes, and you get to walk out with a new read in hand without spending a dime. If you’d rather access books from the comfort of your couch, download the Libby app to borrow digital copies straight to your e-reader.
2. Put together a puzzle
If you ask me, doing a puzzle is the ultimate relaxing weekend activity. Having the free time to sit down and piece one together feels like such a luxury, but I rarely make time for it. This weekend, pull out the puzzle collecting dust in your cabinet and get to work. Throw on a TV show or a podcast in the background, and you won’t even notice the hours passing.
3. Go on a nature walk
Hear me out—I know it’s still winter, but a nature walk can be peaceful no matter the season. As long as you bundle up, you can get your steps in at any time. If you’re used to strolling around your neighborhood, mix it up by finding a nearby nature trail or hiking spot. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and move your body.
4. Set up a phone date with a friend
It’s probably been way too long since you called your long-distance best friend, and this is the weekend to fix that. Instead of playing an endless game of phone tag, schedule a time when you’re both free to really catch up. It’s the perfect alternative to grabbing drinks, and you can even make yourself a fun little beverage at home to sip on while you chat.
5. Reorganize an area of your home
Spring cleaning season is right around the corner, so why not get a head start? You don’t have to overhaul your entire home, but pick one cluttered area to tackle this weekend. Whether it’s a messy closet or a chaotic junk drawer, you’ll feel so much better once everything has a home. Who knows? You might even be inspired to keep going.
6. Relax at a park
We’re at that point in winter where the occasional warm, sunny day sneaks in. If the weather is looking promising this weekend, take full advantage by heading to a park. Pack a blanket, grab a book, and bring some snacks—you’ll feel like you’re on a mini getaway without ever leaving town.
7. Play a board game
Hosting a game night is the perfect opportunity to engage in a little friendly competition. Invite some friends over and break out the board games, card games, or even app-based games (Jackbox games are a favorite in my household). To keep it budget-friendly, serve up some Trader Joe’s appetizers you have in your freezer, use pantry staples to whip up something to snack on, or make it a potluck where everyone contributes.
8. Host a movie night
If board games aren’t your thing, go for a movie night instead. There are so many great new movies and shows on streaming services, and watching them with friends makes it even better. Set the mood with cozy blankets, candles, and dim lighting. You can set out treats you already have in the pantry or let your guests know it’s a BYOMS situation (bring your own movie snacks, duh).
9. Find a free museum or festival near you
You might be surprised by how many free things happen every weekend while you’re too busy throwing money at food and drinks to even notice. Do a quick search to see if there are any free museum days, festivals, or pop-up events happening near you this weekend. It’s an easy way to experience something new without dipping into your budget.
10. Create a vision board
You might make a vision board for the new year and then think you’ve maxed out your vision board potential, but this doesn’t have to be a once-a-year activity. If you don’t have old magazines on hand to cut up, try making a digital one that you can set as your phone or computer background. It’s a fun and creative way to manifest your goals while keeping the mess to a minimum.
11. Cook or bake something using ingredients you already have
Sometimes, when I get the urge to bake, I end up spending way too much money on ingredients I’ll only use a small amount of while the rest goes to waste. Instead of picking a recipe first, take inventory of what you already have and find a recipe that fits. You’ll end up with a delicious homemade treat without the bakery price tag.
12. Do an at-home workout
I love a Pilates class as much as the next girl, but in this economy, the Pilates princess lifestyle just isn’t in the cards. Instead, try a free workout at home. If you want to follow along with an instructor, YouTube has endless options, from yoga to HIIT to dance cardio. It’s the perfect opportunity to experiment with something new and break a sweat without breaking the bank.
13. Journal
Whether you’ve been dreaming up the next great American novel or just want to get your thoughts down on paper, journaling is a completely free way to entertain yourself. If you’re feeling stuck, try using a journal prompt to get started. Once you begin, you might find that the words flow more easily than you expected.
14. Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community while also getting out of the house. Whether it’s walking dogs at a shelter, helping out at a food pantry, or sorting books at the library, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Plus, it’s completely free and can be an incredibly rewarding way to spend a few hours.
Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.