Calling all reccessionistas! Your hustle may not be netting you the big dollars yet, but you work hard and deserve to have some fun when the day is done. However, going out on the town can cost a pretty penny. So what is a sistah to do when she’s looking to live it up with limited funds? Here are some tips for enjoying the nightlife in your city when you’re a baller on a budget.
Drinking on a Dime
There’s always the tactic of flirting with cute boys to get free drinks. But let’s face it, sometimes a free drink from a guy is not worth having dude stalking you all night just because he bought you a vodka and cranberry. Before you get started with your night, swing by a friend’s house, pop open a bottle of inexpensive wine and have a couple drinks before you hop in a cab and go dancing. You’ll buy fewer drinks, save a good deal of money and already have a nice little buzz going.
Go On the Right Night
Do a little research. Check out the websites of your favorite spots. Most clubs and lounges have a ladies’ night or happy hour when women get in for free or drinks are discounted or two for one. Sign up for your favorite hangout’s email newsletter so you can get the inside track. You may want to try going out on a weeknight every so often. Keyword: every so. Many bars offer specials to lure customers in on school nights. Also, since you’ll be partying on a weeknight, you probably won’t stay out as late and thus won’t spend as much money.
Get Your Groupons
Sign up for sites like Groupon and Living Social in your city to get some great deals on drinks, tickets and meals on a lot of your favorite restaurants. Often, you can get 50 percent off or more at hot spots around town. If you live in Chicago or New York, a nightlife-specific web site, Poggled.com, was recently launched that has discounts on libations, concerts and cover charges.
Forgo That New Freak ‘Em Dress
If you are going out on the town, it can be tempting to splurge on a hot new outfit. Instead, try tricking out an ensemble that you already own with some inexpensive but colorful accessories. Take that little black dress and transform it with a pair of dangly earrings, a cute belt and/or a sparkly ring.
Bougie on a Budget
If you’re not feeling the club, it’s possible to find budget-conscious bourgeois nightlife. Enjoy the ballet, opera or the theater? Call the box office and inquire if discounted rush tickets are available. If you’re in school, work that student ID to get discounts on everything from museums to concerts. In the summer, many cultural institutions offer free outdoor events. Check out the arts section of your local paper or web sites like Time Out New York to find out about cheap and free artsy events.
How do you save money when you go out?
