So I write a lot about the environment and social issues a lot, but this blog is really about creating a better positive world for everyone. That said, the recession has certainly set in and is bumming a lot of people out, and therefore is clearly an obstacle to fun and positivity.
I spent the last 35 days backpacking Europe with my beautiful girlfriend Kristen (and with our friend Mike for 3 of those weeks) and although the trip was by no means cheap, it certainly taught us how to have fun for little or no money. I also happen to be unemployed upon returning home, so in that spirit, I present my Recessionary Guide to Summer Fun! In it, you will find great things to spice up your summer without breaking the bank. As an additional bonus, I limited the guide to activities that are gentle on the environment (although I can't guarantee the overall impact of festivals, etc)
1. Skip the gym, get outside! I have always preferred the pavement to the treadmill, but for those who are more inclined to choose the gym, try going for a run, organize a casual baseball game, or just go for a walk!
Save Money On: gym membership, gas money
You will get: Excercise, a tan
2. Pedal Power. Park the car in the garage, pump up those tires, slap on a basket or rear rack, and bike! Unfortunately, if you live in the 'burbs like me, it can be difficult to walk to the grocery store and elsewhere for errands. However, even in Markham, most things are well within reach by bicycle.
Save Money On: Gas money
You will get: Excercise, sun. In addition, I promise you will have more fun than you would have driving. Lastly, if you are unemployed like me, it will also give you something to do to fill your time!
3. Eat Local. Find your nearest farm/farmer's market and make a day trip out of it! During the summer, many towns have a weekly farmer's market that you can visit, and if you can get to a farm, that is equally as rewarding. You have to eat anyways, and buying local food is fresher, better for the environment, and often cheaper. Furthermore, you have the added benefit of developing a relationship with you food and where it came from, as you can meet the people who produced it! Last summer, Kristen and I made trip to Whitamore's Farm, where we were able to not only buy fresh, but opted to pick out own strawberries and snow peas. What we found was not only is it something to fill an afternoon, but you get to completely control your own food quality and really feel as if you have "earned it", for lack of a better phrase.
Save Money On: Food
What you get: Quality Control, cheap fruits and veggies (which is super for making pies and jam, etc)
4. Festivals. Summer is the season for music festivals like Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, and others, but those are often expensive. Fortunately, summer is also the time for local festivals for music, food, and drink that are cheap or even free. If you are looking to save money, look into main street festivals that seem to run every weekend, or if you want more stimulation, try The Beaches Jazz Festival, Burlington Sound of Music or others. Although it is actually in the fall, Kristen and I attended the Bala Cranberry Festival last year for some fun in Muskoka, and had a great time!
Save Money On: Entertainment
What you get: Food, music, drinks, new friends and good times!
5. Hit the beach or the park. Pack a picnic and some friends, or even just a towel and a book, and relax! If you've got a cottage that's great, and if not, a personal favourite park for me is Edward's Gardens at Leslie and Lawrence. The Gardens are park of a parks network that starts at Lawrence and stretches uninterupted south almost to the Danforth.
Save Money On: Everything, the sun is free, man!
What you get: Soft grass/sand, clear air and skies, sun, and a tan. Relaxation!
So that's all for now, if you have any other suggestions I would be glad to hear them!
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