Saving Money On...Family Movie Night

What is more fun than going out to dinner and a movie with your family? The problem? Dinner and a movie for a family can cost well over $100!!! The solution? A fun, festive dinner and a movie at home. You won't even miss the germy theater seats and obnoxious chatting kids two rows back!

• Look For FREE or Cheap Movie Rentals!
• Redbox and Blockbuster Express often have codes for free rentals. Check their sites for promotions and offers.
• Groupon and some of the other Daily Deal sites often offer deals on cheap movie rentals. The most recent deal in the last week was 5 Blockbuster Express rentals for only $2.
• If your family watches many movies, or doesn't have cable, consider signing up for Netflix.

• Make Dinner Festive! 
• Try to incorporate the movie theme into your menu. Examples?
•  "Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs"...Spaghetti and Meatballs
• "Ratatouille"...Pasta Primavera with French Bread or the obvious Ratatouille
• "Pirates of the Caribbean"...Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Fresh Pineapple Salsa
• "The Sound of Music"...Schnitzel and Soft Pretzels
• "The Little Mermaid"...Fish Sticks
• "Aladdin"...Pita Bread Pizzas
• "Lady and the Tramp"...Spaghetti and Meatballs
• "The Three Caballeros"...Tacos
• "The Princess and The Frog"...Jambalaya
• "Mulan"...Stir Fry or Orange Chicken
• Make Movie Snacks Festive
• "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves"...Caramel Apples
• "Winnie the Pooh"...Honey Fritters
• "Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory"...Chocolate Fondue with Pretzels, Strawberries, and Marshmallows to dip
• "Veggie Tales"...Carrot and Celery Sticks with Ranch Dressing
• Set the Mood
• Send out invitations to your kids the morning of movie night. This will get them excited for the main event!
• Get Comfy
• Lay out pillows, have blankets available, and snacks close by. 
• Have Fun!
• The most important thing is spending time with your family. Enjoy the quiet time, and try to turn your mind off. Focus only on enjoying the time together.