30 Free Things to Do on a No-Spend Weekend

Free things to do on the weekend!

Got a long weekend ahead but finding yourself a bit short on cash? No need to worry!

If you’re like us, weekends drain our wallets. Weekdays are spent frugally—finding cheap activities for the kids while my husband works long hours.

But come Friday, we splurge! A lot.

Sound familiar?

What is a No Spend Weekend?

Having a no spend weekend can be a fantastic strategy to boost your savings! It presents an engaging challenge of refraining from any expenses throughout an entire weekend, which can be a fun and rewarding experience.

This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals looking to stick to a budget or aiming to accumulate some additional savings for future plans or unexpected expenses.

A no spend weekend is a great way to save money! It’s a challenge to not spend any money for an entire weekend. This is perfect for those who are on a budget or trying to save some extra cash.

How to Have a No-Spend Weekend?

Before embarking on a no-spend weekend, prep is key.

Make a fun list of activities involving everyone—even let the kids suggest some creative crafts using what you already have!

Check your kitchen for hidden gems and plan meals with existing pantry items to ensure a successful weekend.

No-Spend Weekend Rules

First things first, set yourself some ground rules for the weekend. Decide what you are allowed to spend money on and stick to it. No unnecessary purchases such as clothes or eating out. Be strict with yourself and hold yourself accountable to these rules.

Next, plan out your activities for the weekend. There are plenty of free things to do. You just have to be willing to look for them.

30 Free Things to Do This Weekend

Haven’t tried a no-spend weekend before? Take on the challenge—it’s not just a money-saver but surprisingly enjoyable! Enjoy these free things to do on your next no-spend challenge!

1. Go for a Walk

Walking is one of the best free pastimes that can include the whole family.

Weather you take an old familiar path through your neighborhood or explore a new trail, or park, its a great way to start our your weekend.

2. Have a Picnic

Having a picnic is one of my favorite pastimes that the whole family can enjoy. Explore your neighborhood or discover a new area for a refreshing weekend start. Summer and fall offer ideal picnic weather, making it a budget-friendly activity suitable for any location.

Simply gather essentials from your kitchen, a picnic blanket, and relish in a delightful picnic experience.

3. Workout

Looking to stay active without spending a dime? Embrace the power of a weekend workout session! Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast, a cardio lover, or someone who enjoys strength training, there’s a plethora of free resources available online to cater to every fitness level and interest.

Platforms like YouTube and Instagram offer an array of workout routines, ranging from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to relaxing yoga flows, all accessible from the comfort of your home.

So, lace up those sneakers, roll out your yoga mat, and dive into a no-cost fitness adventure to revitalize your body and mind without breaking the bank. Be sure to check out here how you can get paid to work out from home!

4. Play a Board Game

Gather your friends and family for a classic board game extravaganza during your no-spend weekend! Dust off those old favorites like Monopoly, Scrabble, or Settlers of Catan, or explore new ones with online resources like Tabletopia or Board Game Arena.

With countless options ranging from strategic battles to laugh-out-loud party games, you’re sure to find something that suits everyone’s tastes. So, clear off the table, shuffle those cards, and let the friendly competition begin—all without spending a penny!

Or, if you are solo for the night, hop on over to Facebook and play board games online for free!

Join this free No-Spend Challenge and transform your spending habits!

5. Gardening

Indulge your green thumb and immerse yourself in the therapeutic world of gardening during your no-spend weekend! Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a few pots on a balcony, there’s something immensely satisfying about tending to plants and watching them flourish.

Get your hands dirty planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables, or simply spend time pruning and caring for existing plants. Not only is gardening a calming and rewarding activity, but it also allows you to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors without spending a dime.

So grab your gloves, grab some seeds or clippings, and let your garden dreams bloom!

Related article: 55 Genius Frugal Living Tips You Should Adopt Today

6. Have a Bonfire

Transform your backyard into a cozy gathering spot with a bonfire during your no-spend weekend! Gather friends and family for an evening under the stars, swapping stories and roasting marshmallows around the crackling flames.

All you need is some firewood, a safe spot to build your fire, and perhaps some DIY fire starters made from household items like newspaper and cardboard. With the warmth of the fire and the company of loved ones, you’ll create unforgettable memories without spending a penny.

7. Camp in the Backyard

Turn your backyard into a magical camping retreat for a memorable no-spend weekend with your kids! Set up a tent, roll out sleeping bags, and create a cozy outdoor haven right in your own yard. Spend the evening telling stories, stargazing, try a nature scavenger hunt, and listen to the sounds of nature around you.

For added fun, bring out camping games or flashlights for shadow puppets inside the tent. It’s a perfect way to bond with your family, ignite their sense of adventure, and create cherished memories—all without leaving home or spending a dime on expensive camping trips.

Related article: How To Make Over $2,000 Per Month Renting Your RV On RVshare.com

8. Mow Your Lawn

Don’t overlook the simple pleasure of mowing your lawn during a no-spend weekend! Not only is it a productive way to maintain your outdoor space, but it’s also a great form of exercise and stress relief.

Put on your gardening gloves, fire up the lawnmower, and get to work sculpting your green oasis. As you glide across the grass, take in the fresh air and the satisfaction of seeing your lawn transformed into a neatly trimmed masterpiece. Plus, the best part? It won’t cost you a dime—all you need is a little time and effort to enjoy the benefits of a well-groomed yard.

9. Go for a Bike Ride

Hit the pavement and explore your surroundings on a refreshing bike ride during your no-spend weekend! Dust off your bicycle, strap on your helmet, and set out on an adventure through your neighborhood, local parks, or scenic trails. Feel the wind in your hair as you pedal along, taking in the sights and sounds of nature around you.

Whether you’re cycling solo or with friends and family, it’s a fantastic way to get some exercise, clear your mind, and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.

10. Visit a Local Playground

Rediscover the joy of childhood by visiting a local playground! Round up the kids or unleash your inner child and head to the nearest playground for a day of fun and laughter. Swing high on the swings, race down the slides, and conquer the monkey bars with gusto.

It’s a fantastic way to bond with family and friends, get some fresh air and exercise, all while enjoying the simple pleasures of outdoor play—all without spending a dime. So, pack a picnic, grab your sunscreen, and let the playground adventures begin!

11. Detail Your Car at Home

Give your car a makeover without spending a dime by detailing it at home during your no-spend weekend! Roll up your sleeves, gather your cleaning supplies, and transform your vehicle into a sparkling masterpiece.

Start by clearing out any clutter and trash, then vacuum the interior, wipe down surfaces, and scrub away dirt and grime from the upholstery and floor mats. Don’t forget to give the exterior some TLC, too—wash, wax, and polish until it shines like new.

Check out how you can make quick cash with your car!

12. Yard Work

Tackle your yard work to-do list during your no-spend weekend and transform your outdoor space into a beautiful sanctuary! Roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening gloves and tools, and dive into tasks like weeding, mulching, and pruning. Take the opportunity to plant flowers, herbs, or vegetables, adding color and life to your garden without spending a dime.

Don’t forget to mow the lawn, trim hedges, and tidy up any debris to give your yard a neat and polished look. With a little sweat equity and creativity, you can enhance your outdoor oasis and enjoy the beauty of nature right in your own backyard

13. Go to the Beach

Enjoy a day of sun, sand, and surf with a beach day! Pack up your beach essentials—towels, sunscreen, snacks, and plenty of water—and head to the nearest coastline or lakeside retreat. Spend the day swimming in the waves, building sandcastles, and basking in the warmth of the sun.

Take leisurely walks along the shore, collect seashells, or simply relax and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. With endless opportunities for outdoor fun and relaxation, a beach day offers the perfect escape without spending a dime.

14. Read a Book

Looking for free things to do? Why not indulge in the simple pleasure of reading a book during your no-spend weekend! Whether you prefer curling up with a classic novel, diving into a gripping thriller, or immersing yourself in a thought-provoking non-fiction title, there’s something magical about getting lost in the pages of a good book.

Head to your local library to borrow a book for free, or dust off your bookshelf and revisit old favorites. Settle into a cozy spot, whether it’s a hammock in the backyard, a blanket fort in the living room, or a comfy armchair by the window, and let the words transport you to new worlds and perspectives.

Did you know you can get paid to read? Check out how you can get paid to read here!

15. Bake Something

Get creative in the kitchen and whip up a delicious treat during your no-spend weekend! Baking is not only a fun and rewarding activity but also a great way to indulge your sweet tooth without breaking the bank.

Raid your pantry for basic ingredients like flour, sugar, and eggs, and let your imagination run wild. Whether you’re craving cookies, brownies, or a homemade loaf of bread, there are endless recipes to explore online for free.

16. Go to the Library

Visit your local library during your no-spend weekend! Explore the aisles stocked with a treasure trove of books, magazines, and other media waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re in the mood for a gripping novel, a fascinating non-fiction read, or the latest issue of your favorite magazine, the library has something for everyone.

Plus, many libraries offer free events, workshops, and activities for all ages, providing endless opportunities for enrichment and entertainment. Visiting the library is one of my favorite free things to do!

17. Visit the Bookstore

Similar to the library, you can visit your local bookstore, grab a chair, and read for hours! No need to spend money on books that will just clutter your shelves or e-reader. And if you do find a book that you absolutely love and want to take home, visit your local library online and see if they have it.

My kids love visiting the bookstore, even if they don’t get to take a book home. Also, make sure to visit during story time if you have young kids!

18. Clip Coupons

Maximize your savings during your no-spend weekend by clipping coupons and exploring cashback apps like Fetch! Spend some time scouring newspapers, magazines, and online coupon websites to find discounts on groceries, household items, and more. Clip or print out the coupons that match your shopping list and organize them for easy access when you hit the store.

Additionally, consider downloading Fetch, a user-friendly app that rewards you with points for scanning your grocery receipts. You can redeem these points for gift cards to your favorite retailers, effectively earning money back on your purchases.

19. Clean Your House

Roll up your sleeves and give your home a thorough cleaning during your no-spend weekend! Tackle tasks like dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and decluttering to restore order and freshness to your living space.

Start by making a checklist of areas that need attention, from high-traffic areas like the living room and kitchen to forgotten corners and storage spaces. Gather your cleaning supplies, such as microfiber cloths, multipurpose cleaner, and a vacuum cleaner, and dive into each task.

Related article: How To Declutter Your Home Quickly: Room By Room

20. Movie Night

Transform your living room into a cozy home theater for a no-spend movie night during your weekend! Raid your movie collection, stream films on free platforms like Kanopy (through your library) or Tubi, or borrow DVDs from friends or family.

Set up blankets, pillows, and snacks for a comfortable viewing experience. Pop some popcorn, dim the lights, and settle in for a cinematic adventure without spending a penny. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic favorite or a new release, movie night at home is a budget-friendly way to relax, unwind, and enjoy quality time with loved ones.

21. Festivals

Heading to a local festival is an exciting way to spend a weekend without breaking the bank. Not only are these events free, but they also offer a unique experience in your local community. From early morning parades to getting up close and personal with farm animals, there’s something for everyone at these festivals.

Visit your city’s special events page online to explore different festivals or free things they have going on.

22. Home Depot Workshops

Home Depot offers free workshops on the weekends for kids! These workshops are designed to teach children hands-on skills and creativity while also providing a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

The workshops cover a wide range of topics, including building, gardening, painting, and even home improvement. Each workshop is led by an experienced instructor who guides the kids through the project step-by-step, ensuring that they learn important skills along the way.

These workshops are completely free and open to children ages 5-12. Home Depot provides all of the necessary materials and tools, making it easy for parent and child to participate. The workshops usually last about an hour and are held at most Home Depot locations across the country.

23. Create a Budget

If you are looking for cheap things to do on the weekend, why not build a budget? Building a budget can help you save money, pay off debt, and achieve your financial goals. It may seem overwhelming at first, but the benefits of budgeting far outweigh any initial challenges.

First and foremost, building a budget allows you to see exactly where your money is going. By tracking your expenses, you can identify areas where you may be overspending and make adjustments accordingly. This can help you cut back on unnecessary expenses and save more money in the long run.

Budgeting also helps with managing debt. By setting aside a specific amount each month for debt repayment, you can work towards paying off your debts faster.

24. Meal Plan

Are you looking for things to do without money? Why not meal plan for the following week? Meal planning is the process of deciding what meals you will eat for the week and preparing them in advance. This not only saves you time during the week but also helps save money by avoiding unnecessary trips to the grocery store or buying takeout.

One of the biggest challenges when it comes to saving money is figuring out how to spend less on food. With meal planning, you can set a budget and stick to it by carefully choosing your ingredients and meals. Plus, cooking at home is almost always cheaper than eating out!

Not only does meal planning save money, but it also promotes healthier eating habits. By intentionally planning your meals, you can ensure that you are including a variety of nutritious options rather than opting for convenience foods or fast food.

Check out our list of 100 frugal meals!

25. Clean Out the Garage

Cleaning out your garage isn’t fun. However, if you’re trying not to spend money, why not preoccupy yourself by doing just that? Take some time to organize your garage!

When it comes to decluttering, the garage is often one of the most neglected areas in a home. It’s easy just to throw things inside and close the door, but over time, this can lead to a chaotic mess that makes it difficult to find what you need.

26. Declutter Your House

Did you know there is a difference between cleaning and decluttering your home? While both may involve getting rid of items, decluttering goes beyond just removing physical objects.

It also involves organizing and streamlining your space to create a more functional and minimalistic environment. Cleaning is the act of removing dirt, dust, and grime from surfaces in your home.

Decluttering, on the other hand, involves purging unnecessary or unused items from your living space. This could be anything from old clothes that no longer fit to kitchen gadgets that you never use. The goal of decluttering is to eliminate excess and create a more organized and simplified living space.

If you are bored with no money, decluttering is a great way to pass the time!

27. DIY Project

This no spend weekend activity is a must! Have you been holding off a project around your home or have been wanting to try a new DIY idea but haven’t had the time or money to do it? Well, this is the perfect opportunity to get it done!

Make sure to check out one of our favorite DIYs – our entryway bench!

Related article: DIY Farmhouse Table Project That Will Help You Save Money

28. Take Pictures

Embrace your inner photographer and embark on a picture-taking adventure during your no-spend weekend! Grab your camera or smartphone and head out to explore your surroundings with fresh eyes. Whether you’re wandering through city streets, hiking along nature trails, or simply strolling through your neighborhood, there’s beauty to be found in every corner.

Keep an eye out for interesting compositions, vibrant colors, and captivating scenes to capture. Experiment with different angles, perspectives, and lighting to unleash your creativity and capture moments that inspire you.

Also, check out these side gigs that pay you to take pictures in your free time!

29. Volunteer

Give back to your community and make a difference by volunteering your time and skills during your no-spend weekend! There are countless organizations and causes in need of support, from local charities and shelters to environmental groups and community centers. Whether you’re passionate about helping the homeless, caring for animals, or cleaning up parks and beaches, there’s a volunteer opportunity waiting for you.

Reach out to organizations in your area to inquire about volunteer opportunities, or check online platforms like VolunteerMatch to find volunteer roles that match your interests and schedule. Whether you’re serving meals at a soup kitchen, walking dogs at an animal shelter, or planting trees in a local park, volunteering is a rewarding way to give back, connect with others, and make a positive impact

30. Make Extra Cash

Looking to earn some extra cash during your no-spend weekend? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Sell Unwanted Items: Declutter your home and sell items you no longer need or use. You can host a garage sale, list items on online marketplaces like eBay or Facebook Marketplace, or use apps like Letgo or OfferUp to sell locally.
2. Freelance Work: If you have skills like writing, graphic design, or coding, consider freelancing in your spare time. Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr connect freelancers with clients seeking their services.
3. Complete Online Surveys: Sign up for survey websites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, or InboxDollars to earn money by sharing your opinions on various topics.
4. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking: Offer your services as a pet sitter or dog walker in your neighborhood. Many pet owners are willing to pay for someone to care for their pets while they’re away or busy.
5. Participate in Market Research: Join focus groups, participate in product testing, or become a mystery shopper to earn money while providing valuable feedback to companies.
6. Rent Out a Room or Property: If you have extra space in your home, consider renting it out on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo to earn extra income from overnight guests.
7. Offer Handyman Services: If you’re handy around the house, offer your services for tasks like home repairs, painting, or landscaping to earn extra cash.
8. Deliver Food or Groceries: Sign up to become a delivery driver for services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Instacart to earn money by delivering food or groceries to customers.
9. Tutoring or Teaching: If you excel in a particular subject or skill, offer tutoring services to students in your community or teach classes online through platforms like VIPKid or Chegg Tutors.
10. TaskRabbit: Join TaskRabbit to offer your services for various tasks like furniture assembly, moving assistance, or errand running to earn extra cash on your own schedule.

Remember to consider your skills, interests, and availability when choosing the best way to make extra cash during your no-spend weekend!

Free Things to do This Weekend – Summary

A no-spend weekend doesn’t mean sacrificing fun and relaxation. With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy that will leave you feeling fulfilled and rejuvenated. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, indulging in creative pursuits, or giving back to your community, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without spending a dime.

So, embrace the opportunity to discover new experiences, connect with loved ones, and make memories that will last a lifetime—all while staying within your budget. With a little imagination, the possibilities for a fulfilling and enjoyable weekend are endless!

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