Taking the whole family to the movies, a museum, or a live performance of some sort can set you back a pretty penny these days.  While the average consumer has been tightening the proverbial belt in an effort to outlast the ongoing recession, retailers and service-providers have had to bump prices in order to offset ailing sales, making for a major imbalance in the marketplace that has had a marked effect on the purchasing public (mainly by forcing them to cut back on consumption – it’s a vicious cycle).  This probably means that you’ve suffered something of a dry spell in terms of family entertainment.  Fortunately, there are ways to get your spouse and kids out of the house and enjoy a night on the town (or even try some at-home entertainment options) for less.  Here are a few you may want to explore.

1. Family discount days.  Many venues will offer discount days (or events, or show times) for families looking to save a few bucks on an outing for several people.  You might find these deals via the businesses themselves (try movie theaters, museums, theme parks, etc.) or you can check in with your local community center and chamber of commerce to find out about specials they may be promoting.
2. Groupon.  You’ve likely tried looking for coupons for the types of entertainment you prefer, but by signing up for deal of the day (DOTD) sites like Groupon you may be able to get screaming deals on not only the things that you’ve already tried, but also activities and events that you’ve never even considered.  DOTD services are generally free (you just have to sign up) and they will send daily deals directly to your inbox for your perusal (with no pressure to buy).
3. Social networking.  You probably thought that sites like Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, and other social networking sites were just for the kids.  Or maybe you only use them as another form of communication with friends and family.  But if this is your attitude, you’re really missing out on some of the perks of membership.  By connecting to businesses and organizations that offer the entertainments you love you can become privy to sales, coupons, discounts, and even special events that would otherwise have passed you by.  So make the most of your social networking experience and find ways to get the deals you crave.
4. Organize group outings.  Sometimes you can save a lot by arranging for a large group to partake of entertainment events.  Do you like to attend sporting events?  Groups over ten can often receive a per-ticket discount.  Going to a museum with a large group could not only lead to lower prices but also additional amenities (like special tours or viewings).
5. The movies.  Although you may be stymied by movie prices that only go up and up, there are definitely ways around paying full price.  Forget the matinees (which are almost as expensive) and opt to wait for movies to hit the discount theater.  You might wait three months, but you’ll see it on the big screen for a quarter of the cost.  You should also look into On Demand (via cable) which sometimes offers same-day rentals.  Expect to pay about $10 to rent a movie that is coming out in theaters and $4-6 for those that are new releases on DVD.  Either way, you save!

Emma Martin writes for Voucher King where you can find Sky offer codes and lots of other great discounts on the best in food and entertainment.