How to Enjoy Summer Festivals On a Budget
The Milwaukee summer festival season is in full gear. With Summerfest, the State Fair, and Milwaukee’s famous ethnic and church festivals, there is no shortage of options when it comes to finding summertime festival fun in Milwaukee. Although attending festivals can be a lot of fun, the cost can quickly add up.
We’ve compiled a list of some festival money-saving tips to follow to keep you happy and your wallet full.
- Eat/hydrate before going to a festival. At most festivals, trying new foods can be an attraction in itself. However, arriving hungry and thirsty at a festival can cost you a lot more than you may want to spend. Before heading out the door, eat a small meal and have a glass of water. This little action can help you from buying an extra water and/or meal.
- Plan your visit on days offering free admission and/or specials. Most major festivals have special promotions on select days that allow visitors to get in free. For the most popular Milwaukee area festivals, we publish a list of all of the free admission promotions. You can also check the website of the festival you plan on going to in advance to see what types of promotions are being held. Also, keep an eye out for discount tickets through local grocery stores, products, and other sources.
- If allowed by the festival, bring snacks, meals, and/or water from home. Most major festivals and events do not allow carry in any food or beverage. However, if you are attending a smaller fest that allows you to do so, pack a light meal and some water or soda to cut costs.
- Share meals with friends and family. This is not only a great way to save money, but it is also a way to try an even bigger variety of foods at a festival.
- Limit unnecessary purchases. Ask yourself if you really need that $25 t-shirt or $10 souvenir cup. Chances are that you will probably put the item back. Limiting or completely eliminating souvenir purchases can be a very big money saving strategy.
- Try to find inexpensive/free parking. Before dropping $5, $10 or even $20 to park close to the entrance of a festival, assess the surrounding area for less expensive (or even free) parking. For your best chance at scoring a free or inexpensive parking spot, arrive early.
What are some of your secrets for saving money, while still having a good time at summer festivals? Please leave a comment to share with other readers!
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